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:
- Microbiology lab
- Factory operations
- 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:
- 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
- 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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