At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to learn about raw materials, supply assurance, and product specifications.
- Company: Pilgrim's Europe, a leading food business with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn, gain a recognised qualification, and enjoy career progression.
- Other info: Dynamic apprenticeship with opportunities across various technical functions.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in food manufacturing with hands-on experience and expert guidance.
- Qualifications: 2 A-Levels and 3 GCSEs including English, Maths, and Science.
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
Apprenticeship Programme
- 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
- Essential
- 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
- Good attention to detail
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
- Desirable
- 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.
Specification Technician Apprentice in Craigavon employer: Pilgrims Europe
At Pilgrim's Europe, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a unique blend of hands-on experience and academic learning through our Higher Level Apprenticeship in Food & Drink Manufacture. Located in Craigavon, our supportive work culture fosters collaboration and personal growth, providing apprentices with the opportunity to develop essential skills across various technical functions while working alongside experienced professionals. With a strong focus on career progression and a commitment to nurturing talent, joining our team means embarking on a rewarding journey in the food industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Specification Technician Apprentice in Craigavon
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research Pilgrim's Europe, their values, and what they do in the food manufacturing sector. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨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 your interview by practising common questions related to the role. Think about how your skills align with the apprenticeship's requirements, especially around teamwork and attention to detail. We want to see your passion shine through!
✨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. Let’s get you started on this exciting journey!
We think you need these skills to ace Specification Technician Apprentice in Craigavon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the job description. Highlight any relevant coursework or projects that show your interest in food manufacturing and technical roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're excited about this apprenticeship. Share your passion for the food industry and how you see yourself growing within our Supply Chain Assurance team.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to mention your communication and teamwork skills! We want to see how you can contribute to our collaborative environment, so give examples of when you've worked well with others.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. This way, we can easily track your application and get back to you quicker!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pilgrims Europe
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the basics of food manufacturing and supply chain assurance. Brush up on key terms and concepts related to raw materials, product specifications, and compliance processes. This will show your genuine interest in the industry and help you answer technical questions confidently.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences that highlight your communication, attention to detail, and teamwork skills. Whether it's a school project or a part-time job, think about how these experiences relate to the role of a Specification Technician Apprentice and be ready to discuss them.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the apprenticeship programme, the team you'll be working with, and the types of projects you'll be involved in. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
✨Be Yourself
While it’s important to be professional, don’t forget to let your personality shine through. Show your curiosity and determination, and express why you're passionate about food manufacturing. Authenticity can make a lasting impression on your interviewers.
