Confectioners usually work for confectionery manufacturers in large factory environments, but may also work in smaller, boutique confectionery shops or factories. They may be required to stand for extended periods, and their work is often repetitive. As confectioners work with food, their workplace is required to be sterilised and cleaned regularly. They are required to follow strict health and safety guidelines. They usually do shift work, which may include weekends and public holidays.

Confectioners operate confectionery manufacturing and processing machinery such as boilers, baling presses, compressors, conveyor driven machinery, and storage silos, tanks and bins. They may also operate jar filling systems or wrapping machines. Confectioners may also operate industrial kitchen equipment such as ovens and cookers, deep fryers, steamers and mixers, as well as regular kitchen appliances such as microwaves and refrigerators. They may also operate laboratory equipment such as sonic and water baths, chemstations, stirrers and centrifuges. They are usually required to wear safety equipment.