CNC Machine Shop Apprentice

Huhtamaki; Craigavon; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading packaging solutions provider in Northern Ireland seeks a CNC Machine Shop Apprentice to learn machining processes and operations. The successful candidate will be trained on CNC machines, read engineering drawings, and engage in a structured apprenticeship program offering competitive benefits and a rewarding career path. If you're ambitious and motivated, apply by 5pm on Friday, 12th September 2025.

Benefits

Company pension scheme

Sick pay scheme

Bonus payments

Employee discount scheme

Subsidised canteen

Qualifications

• Achieved 4 GCSE's (or equivalent) at Grade C or above.
• Computer literacy with Microsoft Office experience.
• Demonstrating a mechanical mind and interest in engineering is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Understand machining processes and related calculations.
• Learn to read engineering drawings and set CNC machines.
• Participate in daily maintenance checks and housekeeping.

Skills

Teamwork

Problem Solving

Communication

Education

4 GCSE's at Grade C or above including Maths, English, and one science

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Overview

CNC Machine Shop Apprentice

Enjoy a career, packaged with care, whilst helping protect food, people and the planet

We are a key global provider of sustainable packaging solutions. We’re on a mission to make all packaging recyclable, reusable, or compostable. Every day, we ensure the hygiene and safety of food and drink for people around the world. We are Huhtamaki.

You could be part of our vision. Because it’s our talented people that make it happen. Our people on the shop floor producing innovative, sustainable products. Our people in our offices delivering excellence for our customers every day. It’s every one of us working together.

We offer a place where you can feel safe, be supported, and make an impact so we can all focus on the future together.

Locally, we manufacture molded fibre packaging products primarily for the food industry and are continually improving our knowledge and skills to be a world leader in manufacturing. Continuous investment has seen an increased need for engineering development and support throughout the Lurgan site and therefore we are a challenging & rewarding company to work for.

What you’ll be doing

• Understand techniques involved in the machining processes such as speeds and feeds, calculating angles/tapers, material removal
• Understand the practical and theoretical uses of the machines used, and their applications
• Understand the work-holding devices, cutting tools, and setting up procedures, in adequate depth to provide a sound basis for carrying out the activities, correcting faults and ensuring the work output is to the required specification
• Learn to read engineering drawings
• Learn to set and operate CNC machines (including setting the cutting speeds and choosing the correct tooling)
• Learn to program CNC machines using different controls
• Learn to carry out changes to programmes
• Learn to problem solve machine issues
• Learn about housekeeping and daily maintenance checks in the work area
• Ensure all working practices and procedures are followed at all times
• Understand and complete all work-related documentation accurately and on time
• Undertake any other duties in line with capabilities
• Maintenance and safe working practices and use of PPE
• Understand the importance of calibration
• Other duties as required

What you’ll bring to the role

• Have achieved 4 GCSE’s (or equivalent) at Grade C or above to include Maths, English and at least one science-related subject
• Computer literacy with the experience of using Microsoft Word and Excel packages
• Whilst not essential, it would be advantageous to demonstrate a mechanical mind and an interest in engineering through work experience, hobbies, project work etc

We are looking for ambitious, hard-working and motivated individuals, who are enthusiastic to work in a fast-paced manufacturing/engineering environment, and who are keen and able to progress to a higher level within their field.

As an Apprentice in Huhtamaki you must be able to work in a team, and possess good communication and literacy skills.

What we offer in return

• A 4-year apprenticeship during which time you will have the opportunity to learn a combination of engineering skills complemented by on-the-job training on real, live projects.
• Recognised qualifications and a rewarding career path working alongside expert engineers and technicians on a daily basis.
• An opportunity to earn a salary whilst gaining practical experience
• Development salary increases through your apprenticeship on successful completion at each stage.
• Other benefits offered include: Company pension scheme, sick pay scheme, bonus payments and employers for childcare scheme, company work wear, reward and recognition scheme, employee discount scheme and a subsidised canteen.

For the right candidate, this role represents a significant opportunity for collaborative team working, learning & development and career progression in a dynamic and exciting new environment.

Go ahead, apply today!

If this sounds like a good fit, then we’d love to hear from you. If you are seeking a new challenge please apply online by visiting: .

To be shortlisted, candidates must ensure that they clearly state on their application form how they meet the criteria outlined above. The closing date for all applications is 5pm on Friday, 12th September 2025.

Join us. Help protect food, people and the planet. Enjoy a career, packaged with care.

Skills: Teamwork, Problem Solving, Communication