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 or equivalent, plus 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 Portadown employer: Pilgrims Europe
Pilgrim's Europe is an exceptional employer that offers a unique blend of hands-on experience and academic learning through its Higher Level Apprenticeship in Food & Drink Manufacture. Located in Craigavon, the company fosters a supportive work culture where employees can develop their skills across various technical functions, paving the way for long-term career opportunities in the food industry. With a commitment to employee growth and a collaborative environment, Pilgrim's Europe stands out as a leading choice for those eager to embark on a meaningful career journey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Specification Technician Apprentice in Portadown
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and role thoroughly. Understand their values and how you can contribute. Practise common interview questions and think of examples that showcase your skills and experiences.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you on their radar and reinforces your interest in joining their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications!
We think you need these skills to ace Specification Technician Apprentice in Portadown
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 passionate about this apprenticeship. Share specific examples of your interest in the food industry and how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the job description.
Show Off Your Skills:Don’t forget to mention your communication and interpersonal skills! We want to see how you can work both independently and as part of a team, so give us examples of when you've done this in the past.
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
Before the interview, 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 role and help you answer technical 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 apprenticeship structure, opportunities for hands-on experience, 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 learning journey. Authenticity can set you apart from other candidates and help build a connection with the interviewers.
