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- Tasks: Learn to optimise automation systems in sugar production and troubleshoot control systems.
- Company: Join British Sugar, a leading beet processor with a strong commitment to innovation.
- Benefits: Earn £25,000 per year while gaining a Level 4 qualification and hands-on experience.
- Why this job: Kickstart your engineering career with practical skills in a dynamic industry.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs at Level 5/C or above, plus a Level 3 qualification in Engineering or A Levels in Maths and Physics.
- Other info: Full-time apprenticeship with excellent career progression opportunities.
British Sugar is a home-grown success story and one of the most efficient and competitive beet processers in the world. Around 3,500 farmers based in East Anglia and the East Midlands supply our four advanced manufacturing sites with eight million tonnes of sugar beet every year. We, in turn, make this into over 1 million tonnes of sugar, serving customers across the UK, Ireland and increasingly growing commercially in the EU and world sugar markets.
Job Details:
- Full Time, Apprenticeship
- Duration: 55 Months
- Location: Newark
- Salary: £25,000 per annum
In this apprenticeship, you will follow a Control Engineering pathway, focusing on understanding, configuring, and optimizing the systems that automate and regulate sugar production. You will delve into the science behind control systems and automation, gaining expertise in programmable logic controllers (PLCs), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), distributed control systems (DCS), and other advanced automation technologies. This includes studying a broad range of topics such as control theory, process dynamics, sensors, actuators, and instrumentation, alongside related mechanical and electrical subjects like motor control, pneumatics, conveyors, and elevators.
A 55-month programme, following the Automation & Control Engineering Technician Standard, achieving a Level 4 qualification recognised by the Institute of Engineering & Technology (IET) for Engineering Technician (EngTech) and the Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) for Engineering Technician (EngTech) and all the practical experience alongside, to be ready to move into a Control Engineer (Development) role.
During your scheme you will be working from our Newark site, 5-days a week, Monday-Friday for 8 hours each day and attending college on a block release basis. During periods of site support, you may occasionally be required to work on weekends and bank holidays.
This scheme gives you the opportunity to:
- Understand how the key operational functions work within our factories.
- Gain a good knowledge of our processes and equipment.
- Understand our systems and procedures to work safely and efficiently.
- Develop the behavioural skills to be a great team member.
- Develop skills to troubleshoot and fault find on plant using tools including system tools and techniques, through commissioning, maintenance, and operational periods.
- Develop skills to troubleshoot and fault find control system faults.
- Develop skills to design, develop and manage modern PLC based control systems and distributed control systems on our sites.
- Gain knowledge of operational technology (OT) systems and how the modern control systems and OT integrate with information technology (IT) systems.
What will you need?
You will need a minimum of 5 GCSEs (or equivalent) at Level 5/C or above which must include Maths, English and a Science. Plus, a level 3 qualification in Engineering or A Levels in Maths and Physics. Candidates must be able to travel to the workplace and to attend College.
Application Closing Date: 5 April 2026. We will be considering candidates as they apply and we will occasionally close job adverts early, in the event we receive sufficient applicants, so please do not delay in submitting your application.
Control Engineer Apprentice employer: British Sugar PLC
Contact Detail:
British Sugar PLC Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Control Engineer Apprentice
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at British Sugar on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on control systems and automation topics. We want to show that we’re not just interested, but genuinely passionate about the field!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions with a mate. This will help us articulate our thoughts clearly and confidently when it’s our turn to shine.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows we’re serious about joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Control Engineer Apprentice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. Make sure you understand what we're looking for in a Control Engineer Apprentice and how your skills align with the role.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Don’t just send out a generic CV! We want to see how your experiences relate specifically to this apprenticeship. Highlight relevant coursework, projects, or any hands-on experience that showcases your interest in control engineering.
Show Your Passion for Engineering: In your application, let us know why you're excited about this apprenticeship. Share any personal projects or interests related to automation and control systems. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely passionate about the field!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Don’t wait too long, as we might close the application early if we find enough great candidates!
How to prepare for a job interview at British Sugar PLC
✨Know Your Control Systems
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of control systems and automation technologies. Familiarise yourself with PLCs, SCADA, and DCS, as these are key components of the role. Being able to discuss how these systems work and their applications in sugar production will impress your interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to discuss specific examples where you've successfully troubleshot or resolved technical issues. Think about times when you used your analytical skills to solve a problem, especially in engineering contexts. This will demonstrate your ability to handle challenges in a practical setting.
✨Understand the Company’s Operations
Research British Sugar and its operations thoroughly. Understand their processes, equipment, and the overall industry context. Showing that you know how they operate and what makes them successful will highlight your genuine interest in the apprenticeship and the company.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the training programme, the team you'll be working with, or future opportunities within the company. Asking questions shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
