Job Description
Technical Apprentice – Supply Chain AssuranceDepartment: Supply Chain Assurance (Technical)Location: CraigavonReporting to: Technical Manager – Supply IntegrityAbout the RoleWe 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 DoingYear 1 – Raw MaterialsLearn about customer and legal requirements for raw materialsReview supplier ingredient specifications using internal systems (Smile)Work with suppliers to gather and validate informationAnalyse data and support compliance processesYear 2 – Supply AssuranceSupport supplier approval processes and maintain documentationUse systems such as Foods Connected and SmileParticipate in supplier audits and site visitsAssist with supplier performance monitoring and reportingYear 3 – Product SpecificationsReview and update product specificationsProgress to creating full specifications for customersReview and approve packaging artworkSupport final product compliance and accuracyDevelopment & SecondmentsComplete short placements across the business, including: Microbiology labFactory operationsNew Product Development (NPD)Support wider team activities and gain exposure to different technical areasApprenticeship ProgrammeComplete the Higher Level Apprenticeship in Food & Drink ManufactureAttend all teaching weeks at CAFRE (Loughry)Complete coursework and assignments on timeWhat Success Looks LikeStrong performance across all placementsSuccessful completion of apprenticeship exams and courseworkClear development of technical understanding and practical skillsReadiness to step into a permanent technical roleWhat We're Looking ForEssentialMeet 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 subjectA genuine interest in food manufacturing and the food industryStrong communication and interpersonal skillsSelf-motivated, organised and proactiveGood attention to detailAbility to work both independently and as part of a teamDesirablePrevious work experience, particularly in manufacturing or food environmentsFull driving licence and willingness to travel to different sitesValues & BehavioursDemonstrates 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 learningBuild real-world experience across multiple technical functionsWork alongside experienced professionals in a supportive environmentDevelop skills that lead to long-term career opportunitiesBe part of a leading food business with strong career progression pathwaysReady 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.TPBN1_UKTJ