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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn and apply engineering skills in a hands-on environment while working with experienced professionals.
- Company: Join Premier Foods, makers of beloved brands like Angel Delight and Paxo.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 5 weeks holiday, and access to employee perks.
- Why this job: Kickstart your engineering career with a structured apprenticeship and real-world experience.
- Qualifications: 4 GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, including Maths, Science, and English.
- Other info: Dynamic learning environment with opportunities for career progression.
The predicted salary is between 23809 - 26500 £ per year.
Location: Premier Foods Ashford
Level: 4 Higher National Certificate in Engineering (Mechatronics)
1st Year Salary: £23,809 per annum
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. 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)
What We Offer You
- A competitive salary, increasing each year based on successful academic and practical progress
- Company pension scheme with life assurance
- 5 weeks' holiday + bank holidays
- Access to a range of employee benefits, including:
- Staff discount scheme
- Onsite subsidised canteen
- Company shop
- Share Save 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.
The Next Step...
If you're ready to take your first step into a career in engineering and want to be part of a team that makes a real difference every day, click apply via our website and upload your CV.
Apprentice Engineer in Ashford employer: Premier Foods
Contact Detail:
Premier Foods 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 products like Angel Delight and Paxo. This will help you connect your passion for engineering with their mission during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your problem-solving skills! Since this role is all about tackling challenges, think of examples from your past where you've solved problems or worked in teams. Bring these stories to life in your interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm! Let your passion for engineering and technology shine through. Talk about what excites you about mechatronics and how you see yourself growing in this field.
✨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 Premier Foods.
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 enthusiasm for engineering in your application! Share any projects or experiences that sparked your interest in mechatronics. We love to hear about your curiosity and problem-solving skills.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Apprentice Engineer role. Highlight relevant GCSEs, skills, and any experience that relates to engineering or technology. 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’re excited about this apprenticeship and how you can contribute to our team at Premier Foods. Keep it engaging and personal.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Premier Foods
✨Know Your Mechatronics Basics
Brush up on the fundamentals of mechatronics before your interview. Understand how mechanical, electrical, and computing systems work together. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show your genuine interest in the field.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to discuss specific examples where you've tackled challenges or solved problems, whether in school projects or personal experiences. Highlighting your analytical thinking will demonstrate that you're ready for the hands-on nature of the apprenticeship.
✨Communicate Enthusiastically
Strong communication skills are key! Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Show your enthusiasm for engineering and the opportunity to learn from experienced engineers at Premier Foods. A positive attitude can make a lasting impression.
✨Plan Your Transport Logistics
Since reliable transport is essential for this role, be prepared to discuss how you'll manage travel to the training centre in Rochester. Having a plan in place shows responsibility and commitment, which are qualities they value in an apprentice.
