At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a three-year apprenticeship to learn programming and hands-on IT skills.
- Company: Cranswick, a leading British food producer that values its people.
- Benefits: Employee discounts, sharesave scheme, enhanced pension, and career progression.
- Other info: Flexible hours and a dynamic workplace focused on growth.
- Why this job: Kickstart your IT career with real-world experience in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, with GCSEs in Maths and English, and Level 3 qualifications.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.
Cranswick is one of the largest food producers in Britain and have stayed true to our simple ethos - to create authentically made British food, without compromise. People are at the heart of the business - from the farm to the factory to the retail shelf, our people deliver exceptional food experiences. We were founded on expertise, but we are also entrepreneurs, seeking out opportunities, encouraged by our culture that allows great commercial ideas to flourish. If you have the desire and ambition to work with a business that recognises its employees as the heart of their company, then Cranswick Country Foods (Ballymena) could be the place for you. We are looking for innovative, motivated and dedicated candidates to join our team to join us in achieving our ambitious growth plans.
The Role: Successful applicants will commence a three-year apprenticeship programme in September 2026 in conjunction with the local college. Your week will be spent attending college for day release and on-the-job training. Across three years, you will undertake modules in programming, using databases, web and mobile app development, and much more at college. When onsite, you will have the opportunity for a hands-on experience of building computers, tablets, phones for end users, terminals for the factory floor, and installing job specific software. Supporting the infrastructure team to maintain servers, network switches, phone system and the CCTV system.
Essential Criteria:
- Be at least 18 years on or before 1 July in the year you start your course
- Maths and English GCSEs at grade C or above, or equivalent, plus Level 3 qualifications that are equivalent to 56 UCAS points or above
- Be willing to work towards a Foundation degree in Computing, validated by the Ulster University.
- Highly motivated and have the ability to perform in a highly challenging, expanding and pressurised environment
- Excellent communication skills in English both written and oral
- Excellent problem-solving skills
Hours of work: 40 hours Monday to Friday, (hours to be confirmed). Please note flexibility may be required to suit operational requirements.
In return, some of the benefits on offer are:
- A great future with people at the heart of the business.
- Excellent working conditions
- Sharesave scheme
- Enhanced Company Pension Scheme
- Staff Sales
- Opportunities for progression
To apply, please click the APPLY button below or please email your CV to @Please state where possible how you meet the essential criteria on your CV. Cranswick Country Foods (Ballymena) are an equal opportunities employer.
Benefits:
- Employee discounts
- Staff sales
- Car parking
IT Apprentice JBLE1_NI in Ballymena employer: Cranswick
Cranswick Country Foods (Ballymena) is an exceptional employer that prioritises its people, offering a supportive and innovative work culture where employees are encouraged to thrive. With a comprehensive apprenticeship programme, you will gain hands-on experience while pursuing a Foundation degree in Computing, alongside benefits such as an enhanced pension scheme and opportunities for progression within one of Britain's leading food producers. Join us to be part of a team that values your contributions and fosters your professional growth in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land IT Apprentice JBLE1_NI in Ballymena
✨Get Hands-On Experience
Dive into some local food tech workshops or culinary fairs where you can interact with professionals in the food science and technology sector. These events often attract employers looking for fresh talent, so don’t be shy about striking up conversations and making connections!
✨Join Food Tech Communities
Engage with online forums and communities dedicated to food science and technology. Places like Reddit or specific Facebook groups can be goldmines for apprenticeship leads, insider info, and networking opportunities. You'll also find others on the same journey who can share their experiences.
✨Showcase Your Passion
Consider starting a blog or social media profile dedicated to food science. Showcase any projects, experiments, or recipes that highlight your skills and enthusiasm for the field. It’s a fantastic way to catch the eye of potential employers like Cranswick!
✨Apply Early and Often
With apprenticeships, timing can be crucial! Many companies, including Cranswick, may have specific windows for applications. Stay ahead of the game by checking their websites and applying as soon as you see an opening. Don't hesitate to reach out directly to express your interest!
We think you need these skills to ace IT Apprentice JBLE1_NI in Ballymena
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off Your Food Science Knowledge:When you’re drafting your CV and cover letter, make sure to showcase any relevant coursework or projects in food science and technology. If you've got a particular interest in areas like food safety, nutrition, or product development, mention them! This helps demonstrate your passion and readiness for this apprenticeship.
Highlight Practical Experience:If you've had any hands-on experience, like working in a lab or a food-related setting, include that! Mention specific techniques or technologies you’ve used. Even if it's just a school project, showing that you can apply your knowledge in a practical context can really make you stand out to Cranswick.
References from Industry Professionals:If you’ve had a mentor or teacher in the food science field, consider asking them for a reference. A personal touch can go a long way in the apprenticeship process. It shows that others believe in your potential, and it gives Cranswick more insight into your skills and capabilities.
Tailor Your Motivation:In your cover letter, don't just say why you want the apprenticeship—be specific about what you hope to learn and achieve with Cranswick. Maybe there's a particular project or area of research they’re known for. Mentioning it shows that you’ve done your homework and you really want to be part of their team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cranswick
✨Show Off Your Passion for Food Science
Let's be real – get ready to express your excitement for food science and technology! Talk about any relevant coursework, projects, or even personal experiments you’ve done. Remember, they're looking for someone who's genuinely keen on the field, not just ticking boxes.
✨Be Prepared for Practical Questions
You can bet they'll throw in some scenario-based questions related to food safety or product development. Brush up on your understanding of processes like pasteurisation or shelf-life testing, and think through how you would approach solving a hypothetical problem. Show them you can think on your feet!
✨Bring Your Notebook of Experiences
As an apprentice, your past might not be extensive, but that’s totally fine! Bring along a notebook or portfolio, even if it’s just a collection of your experiences, such as any food labs you took part in, or cooking trials, and how they relate to real-world applications. It’ll help you stand out.
✨Get Familiar with Industry Trends
Make sure you’re up-to-date with the latest food science trends—like plant-based alternatives or sustainability innovations. Being able to chat about current issues and express your views on them will show that you’re not just looking for a job but are genuinely invested in the future of food technology!
