Apprentice Engineer

Maplewood Karate; Barnsley; On-site; GBP 23,000; Full time

Job description

Based in Carlton, Barnsley, S71 3HF - The home of Mr Kipling

Apprentice Provider: Kirklees College

This apprenticeship is designed for individuals looking for a career as a Food and Drink Maintenance Engineer.

As part of this apprenticeship, you will gain core industry knowledge, including key principles of quality management systems and processes, best practice maintenance approaches and techniques, and fault-finding techniques. You will learn how to replace components, operate heat exchanging equipment, and the principles of cutting and welding in the industry.

Closing date for applications: Friday 2nd May 2025

Please note if we receive a high number of applications, the vacancy may be closed early.

Starting salary of c. £22,500 per year with an annual increment dependent on successful progression through the apprenticeship programme and performance in the job role.

On review of CV, you may be invited to a first stage interview on site. On success of first stage, you will be invited to an 'Assessment Day' which involves attending site for a tour of our manufacturing centre, followed by a face-to-face interview, dexterity testing, and a final team group exercise.

Role Purpose

Working within a continuous improvement environment, the Multi-Skilled Engineers are responsible for the maintenance, repair, and performance improvement of fully automated process and packaging equipment to ensure high-quality products are delivered promptly to our customers.

What You'll Be Doing

• Demonstrating an ability to learn and be practically capable in electrical installation, electrical maintenance, electrical testing, and PLCs
• Becoming proficient in the application and use of a wide range of machine tools including turning and milling
• Carrying out planned work including preventative maintenance and calibrations
• Attending breakdown repairs
• Completing installation and improvements to plant
• Working in a safe manner adhering to Good Manufacturing Practice
• Contributing to the site Engineering team objectives of effectively reducing manufacturing downtime through maintaining equipment, improving efficiencies, and working to safety and food quality standards
• Getting broad exposure to different areas of food manufacturing mechanical and electrical maintenance and improvements

You will be studying towards the Level 3 Food & Drink Engineering Maintenance Standard as well as supporting training and qualifications to enable you to carry out the role of Multi-Skilled Engineer for Premier Foods (academic content delivered offsite on block release based in Huddersfield at Kirklees College).

You will be working typically from 08:00 to 16:00 when working onsite and attending college from 09:00 to 17:00 during block release.

What We Need From You

• 5 GCSE's grade of a minimum of grade 4 (or equivalent) including Maths and English at grade 4 (or equivalent) and Science at grade 4 (or equivalent). IT also being a preferred pass (minimum of grade 4) subject.
• Self-managed & self-motivated
• Good communication skills
• Ability to work alone or as part of a team
• Agility in rotating manufacturing centres annually.
• Good attention to detail
• A high level of technical ability

What We Offer You In Return

• Sponsored professional development
• On-the-job mentor
• Free onsite parking
• Employee discount scheme including travel, food, and shopping discounts
• Employee assistance programme
• Apprentice Network Programme-BOOST

Start date: September 2025

A Great British Food Company

Premier Foods is one of Britain's biggest listed food companies, employing over 4,000 colleagues at 15 manufacturing sites and offices up and down the country. Many of our brands have been part of UK life for more than a century and you'll find them in 94% of British households.

At Premier Foods, we believe in inclusion, authenticity, and individuality. We aim to ensure all existing and future colleagues are given equitable opportunities and are respected, valued, and encouraged to bring their true authentic selves to work no matter who they are, what they look like, who they love, or what they believe in. Our culture is one where everyone is welcome.