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- Tasks: Learn to optimise and automate sugar production systems with cutting-edge technology.
- Company: Join British Sugar, a leading beet processor with a strong commitment to innovation.
- Benefits: Earn £25,000, gain a Level 4 qualification, and enjoy hands-on experience.
- Why this job: Kickstart your engineering career while making a real impact in the food industry.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs including Maths, English, and Science; Level 3 Engineering or A Levels in Maths and Physics.
- Other info: Full-time apprenticeship with excellent career progression opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 800 - 1400 £ per month.
British Sugar is a home‑grown success story and one of the most efficient and competitive beet processors 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.
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 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 Bury Customer Supply site, 5‑days a week, Monday‑Friday for 8 hours each day. 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: 5th 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. Job in Suffolk Education & Training Jobs 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. Job in Suffolk Education & Training Jobs
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research British Sugar and their operations. Understanding their processes and values will help you stand out in interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical assessments! Since this apprenticeship involves hands-on work with control systems, brush up on your technical skills and be ready to demonstrate your knowledge during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at British Sugar. Don’t wait too long, though – apply early to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Control Engineer Apprentice. Job in Suffolk Education & Training Jobs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Engineering: Let us see your enthusiasm for control engineering! In your application, mention any relevant projects or experiences that sparked your interest in automation and control systems. This will help us understand why you're a great fit for the role.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this apprenticeship. Highlight your GCSEs, Level 3 qualifications, and any skills related to PLCs or SCADA systems. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it's relevant. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and motivations.
Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We review applications as they come in and may close the advert early if we find enough candidates. Head over to our website and get your application in sooner rather than later!
How to prepare for a job interview at British Sugar PLC
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on control engineering concepts, especially around PLCs and SCADA systems. Familiarise yourself with the basics of control theory and process dynamics, as these are likely to come up in your interview.
✨Show Your Passion
Express your enthusiasm for automation and control systems. Talk about any projects or experiences you've had that relate to the role, whether it's coursework, personal projects, or relevant hobbies. This will help you stand out as a candidate who is genuinely interested in the field.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the apprenticeship and the company. Inquire about the specific technologies they use or how they integrate IT with operational technology. This shows you're engaged and eager to learn more about their processes.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since teamwork is crucial in this role, be ready to discuss examples of how you've worked effectively in a team before. Highlight your communication skills and how you contribute to a positive team environment, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
