Technical Apprentice: Supply Chain Assurance – Pilgrim, Craigavon
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:
o Microbiology lab
o Factory operations
o New Product Development (NPD)
* Support wider team activities and gain exposure to different technical areas
* 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
* Meet entry requirements for the Level 5 HLA:
o 2 A‑Levels (or equivalent)
o 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
* Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
* 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.
Benefits
* Competitive Holiday Entitlement
* Pension Contribution
* Family Friendly Policies
* Learning and Development Opportunities
* Life Assurance
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