General operatives are professional workers who perform a wide range of tasks in manufacturing, construction, shipping and quality control processes. They typically work in entry-level positions, although some general operatives may oversee their own team of employees. Working as a general operative typically involves spending most of your day on the job site or in a warehouse and performing tasks like shipping packages, logging inventory or sterilizing equipment.
The exact duties of a general operative vary based on their industry. In construction, general operatives assist with moving materials and working with their team members to assemble structures that meet client specifications. In manufacturing settings like warehouses or factories, general operatives work in logistical roles, directing the flow of materials through fabrication processes.