Job Title Apprentice Engineer
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
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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
ShareSave 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.