At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Supply Chain Assurance team and gain hands-on experience in food manufacturing.
- Company: Pilgrim’s Europe, a leading food business with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn, enjoy competitive holidays, and access development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic placements across various technical functions with strong career progression.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in food manufacturing with real-world experience and a recognised qualification.
- Qualifications: 2 A-Levels and 3 GCSEs including English, Maths, and Science required.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 € per year.
We are offering an exciting opportunity for a Technical Apprentice to join our Supply Chain Assurance team at Pilgrim’s Europe. This is a 3‑year Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA) in Food & Drink Manufacture (delivered through CAFRE – Loughry Campus), combining hands‑on experience with academic learning. You’ll gain broad, practical exposure across multiple technical functions, building the skills and knowledge needed to progress into a technical career within the business. By the end of the programme, you’ll be well‑prepared to move into a permanent role in areas such as Supply Chain Assurance, Raw Materials or Product Specifications.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Year 1 – Raw Materials
- Learn about customer and legal requirements for raw materials
- Review supplier ingredient specifications using internal systems (Smile)
- Work with suppliers to gather and validate information
- Analyse data and support compliance processes
- Year 2 – Supply Assurance
- Support supplier approval processes and maintain documentation
- Use systems such as Foods Connected and Smile
- Participate in supplier audits and site visits
- Assist with supplier performance monitoring and reporting
- Year 3 – Product Specifications
- Review and update product specifications
- Progress to creating full specifications for customers
- Review and approve packaging artwork
- Support final product compliance and accuracy
Development & Secondments
- Complete short placements across the business, including:
- Microbiology lab
- Factory operations
- New Product Development (NPD)
- Support wider team activities and gain exposure to different technical areas
- Complete the Higher Level Apprenticeship in Food & Drink Manufacture
- Attend all teaching weeks at CAFRE (Loughry)
- Complete coursework and assignments on time
What Success Looks Like
- Strong performance across all placements
- Successful completion of apprenticeship exams and coursework
- Clear development of technical understanding and practical skills
- Readiness to step into a permanent technical role
What We’re Looking For
- Meet entry requirements for the Level 5 HLA:
- 2 A‑Levels (or equivalent)
- Minimum 3 GCSEs (Grade C/4 or above) including English, Maths and a Science subject
- A genuine interest in food manufacturing and the food industry
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Self‑motivated, organised and proactive
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
- Previous work experience, particularly in manufacturing or food environments
- Full driving licence and willingness to travel to different sites
Values & Behaviours
Demonstrates ownership, curiosity and determination, with a practical and collaborative approach to learning and delivering results.
Why Join Pilgrim’s Europe?
- Gain a recognised qualification while earning and learning
- Build real‑world experience across multiple technical functions
- Work alongside experienced professionals in a supportive environment
- Develop skills that lead to long‑term career opportunities
- Be part of a leading food business with strong career progression pathways
Ready to Start Your Career?
If you’re motivated to learn, curious about food manufacturing and ready to build a career in technical roles, this is a fantastic opportunity to get started. Apply now and begin your journey with Pilgrim’s Europe as a Technical Apprentice in Supply Chain Assurance.
Benefits
- Competitive Holiday Entitlement
- Pension Contribution
- Family Friendly Policies
- Learning and Development Opportunities
- Life Assurance
Technical Apprentice: Supply Chain Assurance – Pilgrim, Craigavon employer: Christian Brothers Grammar School
Pilgrim’s Europe is an exceptional employer that offers a unique opportunity for aspiring professionals to kickstart their careers in the food manufacturing industry. With a strong focus on employee development, you will gain hands-on experience while pursuing a recognised qualification, all within a supportive and collaborative work culture. The company values curiosity and determination, providing clear pathways for career progression and a range of benefits including competitive holiday entitlement and family-friendly policies.
Contact Detail:
Christian Brothers Grammar School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical Apprentice: Supply Chain Assurance – Pilgrim, Craigavon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former apprentices at Pilgrim’s Europe on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any insider tips they might have. This can give you a real edge when it comes to interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by researching the company and its values. Understand what makes Pilgrim’s tick, especially in the food manufacturing sector. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you’re genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions with a friend or family member. Focus on how your skills and experiences align with the apprenticeship. The more comfortable you are, the better you’ll perform when it counts!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to 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 Pilgrim’s Europe. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Technical Apprentice: Supply Chain Assurance – Pilgrim, Craigavon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Technical Apprentice role. Highlight any relevant coursework, projects, or work experience in food manufacturing or supply chain management.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your genuine interest in food manufacturing and why you want to join our team at Pilgrim’s. Be sure to mention how your skills align with the apprenticeship.
Showcase Your Passion:In your application, let us know what excites you about the food industry. Whether it's a specific area of food production or a desire to learn more about supply chain assurance, we want to see your enthusiasm!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get you started on this exciting journey with Pilgrim’s Europe.
How to prepare for a job interview at Christian Brothers Grammar School
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the basics of supply chain assurance and food manufacturing. Brush up on key terms and concepts related to raw materials, product specifications, and compliance processes. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you answer questions confidently.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, express your enthusiasm for the food industry and your desire to learn. Share any relevant experiences or projects that sparked your interest in food manufacturing. Employers love candidates who are genuinely excited about the field!
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask at the end of the interview. Inquire about the training process, opportunities for development, or what a typical day looks like in the Supply Chain Assurance team. This demonstrates your curiosity and eagerness to engage with the role.
✨Be Yourself
While it's important to be professional, don’t forget to let your personality shine through. Be honest about your skills and experiences, and don’t hesitate to share your unique perspective. Authenticity can set you apart from other candidates!
