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 GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 € per year.
Technical Apprentice – Supply Chain Assurance
Department: Supply Chain Assurance (Technical)
Location: Craigavon
Reporting to: Technical Manager – Supply Integrity
About the Role
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.
Specification Technician Apprentice employer: Pilgrims Europe
Pilgrim's Europe is an exceptional employer that offers a unique opportunity for aspiring professionals to gain hands-on experience in the food manufacturing industry while pursuing a Higher Level Apprenticeship. Located in Craigavon, our supportive work culture fosters collaboration and personal growth, allowing you to develop essential skills across various technical functions. With a commitment to employee development and clear pathways for career progression, joining our team means embarking on a rewarding journey in a leading food business.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Specification Technician Apprentice
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the food manufacturing industry, especially those who work at Pilgrim's Europe. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info about the company culture and what they really value in an apprentice.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by researching common questions for technical roles. Think about how your skills and experiences align with the job description. We want to see your passion for food manufacturing shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your curiosity! During interviews or networking events, ask insightful questions about the role and the company. This not only demonstrates your interest but also helps you stand out from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Pilgrim's Europe as a Technical Apprentice.
We think you need these skills to ace Specification Technician Apprentice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your genuine interest in food manufacturing! In your application, mention any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your enthusiasm for the industry. This will help us understand why you're excited about this apprenticeship.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Specification Technician Apprentice role. Highlight your academic achievements, especially in subjects like Maths and Science, and any relevant skills or experiences that align with the job description. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you want to join Pilgrim's Europe and how you can contribute to our Supply Chain Assurance team. Keep it concise but engaging – we love a good story!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you'll find all the details you need about the role and our company there. We can't wait to hear from you!
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 industry and help you answer questions confidently.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Prepare to discuss any relevant experience you have, even if it's just coursework or projects. Highlight your attention to detail and organisational skills, as these are crucial for a Specification Technician Apprentice. Think of specific examples where you've demonstrated these abilities.
✨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 shows you're engaged and eager to learn more about the role and the company.
✨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 your passion for food manufacturing. Being authentic can help you connect with the interviewers and leave a lasting impression.
