Operations Apprentice | Sturminster Newton

• Location: Leeming Bar, Northallerton, North Yorkshire
• Salary: £11.20 per hour
• Hours: 45 hours per week
• Shift Patterns: 06:00–15:00 or 15:00–00:00
• Work Type: Full-Time | Permanent | Apprenticeship
• Industry: Food Manufacturing | Meat Processing | Early Careers

ABP Food Group is one of Europe’s leading integrated agri-food businesses, employing over 14,000 people across divisions in food production, pet food, and renewables. With a 70-year heritage, we’re known for quality, sustainability, and innovation.

We’re offering an exciting opportunity for motivated individuals to join our Food & Drink Operations Apprenticeship Programme at our Leeming Bar site in Northallerton
. This Level 2 programme is designed to give you the skills, knowledge, and hands‑on experience to launch a rewarding career in the food industry.

• Hands‑On Learning: Gain real, practical experience in a modern food production environment.
• Career Growth: Start your journey toward long‑term roles in production, quality, or management.
• Sustainability Commitment: Join a business dedicated to animal welfare and future‑focused innovation.
• Supportive Environment: Learn from experienced mentors and be part of a collaborative, friendly team.

As a Food & Drink Operations Apprentice
, you’ll play a key role in our production team, learning about food manufacturing from farm to fork.

• Work in a chilled production environment ensuring products meet customer specifications.
• Operate machinery and equipment safely and efficiently (full training provided).
• Learn about product labelling, weights, and quality assurance documentation.
• Report any defects and support quality control processes.
• Complete Food Hygiene and Food Safety qualifications.
• Work towards the Level 2 Food & Drink Operative Apprenticeship Standard
  .

You’ll gain hands‑on experience while studying, with all training and mentoring provided throughout your apprenticeship.

• Genuine interest in the food and manufacturing industry.
• Enthusiastic, positive, and willing to learn.
• Reliable, flexible, and punctual.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Practical, problem‑solving mindset.

GCSE English & Maths (Grade 3/D or above) preferred – or willingness to complete Functional Skills Level 1.

On successful completion of the apprenticeship, you’ll gain recognised qualifications and real experience to move into roles such as:

• Food Production Operative
• Quality Assurance Technician
• Line Leader or Team Supervisor

With 18+ ABP sites across the UK and Northern Ireland, there are real opportunities to develop and progress within the business.

• £11.20 per hour (45 hours per week)
• Structured learning and qualification programme
• Training in food hygiene, safety, and operations
• Support from mentors and experienced colleagues
• Long‑term career progression opportunities
• Start date flexible to suit your availability

Apply today with your CV and a covering letter explaining why you’d like to join ABP Food Group.

Start your journey and shape your future in food manufacturing with ABP UK!