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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn and apply engineering skills while working with experienced mentors.
- Company: Join Premier Foods, home to iconic brands like Angel Delight and Paxo.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, 5 weeks holiday, and employee discounts.
- Why this job: Kickstart your engineering career with hands-on experience and growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: 4 GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, including Maths, Science, and English.
- Other info: Access to a supportive training programme and a vibrant work environment.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 ÂŁ per year.
We'll support you all the way - and once qualified, we'll continue investing in your future through further training and development opportunities. Please note: Training will take place at IPS International in Rochester. Apprentices will need to travel there regularly. As such, having access to reliable transport is essential, and a full UK driver's licence is desirable.
What You'll Be Doing
- Year 1: You'll spend your first year full‑time at college in Rochester, learning essential theory. During holidays, you'll come onsite to start applying what you've learned.
- Years 2 & 3: You'll be based on site in Ashford, working closely with experienced engineers who will mentor and guide you in developing technical and problem‑solving skills.
- Year 4: You'll join one of our shift teams, rotating through day and night shifts as you take on more responsibility and continue your on‑the‑job learning.
By the end of the programme, you'll be a fully qualified, multi‑skilled engineer with a strong foundation for career progression.
What We Need From You
- A minimum of 4 GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade 4 / C or above, including Maths, Science and English.
- A genuine interest in engineering and technology (and a love of food doesn’t hurt!).
- Drive and enthusiasm to learn, grow, and pass on your knowledge.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work well with others.
- A willingness to work shifts, including days, nights, and weekends.
- Reliable access to transport for travel to and from the training centre in Rochester (a UK driver's licence is desirable).
5 weeks annual leave + bank holidays. We are excited to offer four new apprenticeship opportunities at our Premier Foods site in Ashford, Kent (TN24 0LU) where we proudly produce some of Britain's best-loved brands like Angel Delight, Batchelor's, and Paxo. If you're curious about how things work, enjoy problem‑solving, and want to build a career in engineering, this could be the start of a fantastic journey for you.
What Is Mechatronics?
Mechatronics is a multidisciplinary field combining mechanical, electrical, electronic, and computing systems. It's the backbone of today's modern manufacturing processes. Our Ashford site is home to highly automated, fast‑paced production lines, and we're continually investing in new technologies and equipment – making it the perfect place to learn.
About the Apprenticeship
In partnership with IPS International, we are offering a 4‑year apprenticeship programme that leads to a Level 3 Engineering Technician (Mechatronics) qualification and on to a Level 4 Higher National Certificate in engineering. You will gain hands‑on experience alongside highly skilled engineers and follow a well‑established development pathway as you grow into a multi‑skilled shift engineer.
Benefits
- Access to a range of employee benefits, including:
- A competitive salary, increasing each year based on successful academic and practical progress.
- Company pension scheme with life assurance.
- 5 weeks' holiday + bank holidays.
- Staff discount scheme.
- Onsite subsidised canteen.
- Company shop.
- ShareSave scheme.
- Cycle to Work scheme.
- Employee assistance programme.
- BOOST – our Apprentice Skills Development Network.
The Interview Selection Centre will be held in June 2026. You will need to be available to attend if successfully selected for interview.
Apprentice Engineer in Ashford employer: IPS LLP
Contact Detail:
IPS LLP Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice Engineer in Ashford
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Premier Foods and their brands like Angel Delight and Paxo. This will help you show genuine interest during interviews and make you stand out as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Whether it's talking about your passion for engineering or discussing your problem-solving experiences, being able to express yourself clearly is key. We can’t stress this enough!
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to demonstrate your enthusiasm! Share examples of how you've tackled challenges or learned new skills. Showing your drive and eagerness to grow will resonate well with interviewers.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and starting your journey in engineering.
We think you need these skills to ace Apprentice Engineer in Ashford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Engineering: Let us see your genuine interest in engineering and technology right from the start. Share any relevant projects or experiences that highlight your enthusiasm and curiosity about how things work.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and qualities we’re looking for. Highlight your GCSEs, especially in Maths, Science, and English, and don’t forget to mention your communication skills and teamwork experience.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We want to understand who you are and what you can bring to the table without wading through unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the apprenticeship programme there!
How to prepare for a job interview at IPS LLP
✨Know Your Engineering Basics
Brush up on your engineering fundamentals, especially in maths and science. Be ready to discuss how these subjects apply to real-world scenarios, particularly in mechatronics. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the field.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
Let your passion for engineering shine through during the interview. Share any projects or experiences that sparked your interest in technology. Employers love candidates who are eager to learn and grow, so don’t hold back!
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready about the apprenticeship programme and the company. This shows you’re engaged and serious about the opportunity. Ask about the types of projects you might work on or how mentorship is structured.
✨Plan Your Journey
Since reliable transport is essential, make sure you know how you'll get to the training centre in Rochester. Mentioning your transport plan during the interview can demonstrate your reliability and commitment to the role.