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.
Apply now and begin your journey with Pilgrim's Europe as a Technical Apprentice in Supply Chain Assurance.
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