Specification Technician Apprentice

Job description

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.

Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

Portadown

Type of Contract

Full-time jobs

Published at

20-05-2026

Profession type

Scientific Services

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English