Operations Abattoir Apprenticeship

ABP UK; Sturminster Newton; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

ABP UK in Sturminster Newton is offering a Butchery Apprenticeship in the abattoir with 40 hours per week at a starting rate of £12.71 per hour.

You will learn foundations of the abattoir, gain practical skills, and work toward a Level 2 Abattoir Apprenticeship, with training provided and supervision from a dedicated mentor. This is a stepping stone to a career in meat processing and offers long‑term progression within ABP UK.

Qualifications

• No formal qualifications required; support towards Level 1 Functional Skills.
• Enthusiasm for the meat industry and a commitment to completing your apprenticeship.
• Keen to develop your skills and grow within ABP UK.
• This is a physical role, but training will be provided.

Responsibilities

• Attend factory and classroom sessions to learn customer specifications and impact on costs.
• Collaborate with colleagues and departments under guidance to meet deadlines.
• Maintain health, safety and hygiene procedures at all times.
• Gain understanding of the meat sector's history, values, and traditions.

Skills

Enthusiasm for industry

Commitment to apprenticeship

Willingness to learn

Team player

Job description

ABP Food Group is one of Europe’s leading integrated agri‑food businesses, with divisions specialising in food production, pet food and renewables. Over our 70-year history, we have grown to 14,000 strong team and have built a reputation for quality and innovation. Our Early Careers programme offers opportunities across all of our divisions including apprenticeships, graduate and industrial placement pathways.

Location:

Sturminster Newton, Dorset

Salary:

Starting from £12.71 per hour

Hours of Work:

40 hours per week, Monday to Friday

Reporting to:

Site Abattoir Apprentice Mentor

Start Date:

As soon as possible - We will work around you and your current commitments!

Butchery Apprenticeship Programme

As an Abattoir Apprentice at ABP UK, you'll gain foundational knowledge and practical skills in the abattoir, contributing to the production of award‑winning British and Irish beef and lamb products. You'll learn about quality, efficiency, traceability, sustainability, animal welfare, stress prevention, and lean manufacturing practices. This apprenticeship is a foundation for a fulfilling career in meat processing.

Why Choose ABP UK?

• Hands‑On Experience: Dive into the world of food manufacturing with real, hands‑on learning from day one.
• Career Growth: This is more than just a job‑it's a launchpad for a dynamic career in the meat industry, with opportunities to advance into specialised roles or management.
• Sustainability: Work with a company committed to animal welfare and securing our business for the future.
• Professional Development: Gain qualifications and skills that are recognised in our industry
• Supportive Team: Learn from experienced mentors and be part of a supportive, dynamic team.

Key Responsibilities

• Learn the Basics: Attend factory and classroom as required and acquire an understanding of customer specifications and monetary impact. You'll complete all classwork requirements within agreed standards and work towards completing a Level 2 Abattoir Apprenticeship qualification.
• Team Collaboration: To liaise and communicate with colleagues and departments, following instruction from Training Supervisor. You'll also work with the team to meet deadlines and productivity targets.
• Maintain Standards: To be aware of and adhere to health, safety and hygiene procedures at all time
• Gain Industry Insight: Understand the meat sector’s history, values, culture, and traditions.

Personal Attributes

• Safety First: Take personal responsibility for health and food safety.
• Eager to Learn: Show a willingness to learn, solve problems, and acquire new skills.
• Punctual & Reliable: Be diligent, reliable, and respectful towards customers and colleagues.
• Attention to Detail: Perform tasks diligently and understand the importance of efficiency for business profitability.
• Team Spirit: Maintain the vision and ethos of the business, taking pride in your work and fostering positive relationships with colleagues.

Qualifications & Skills

• No formal qualifications required! We'll support you towards completing your Level 1 Functional Skills. These are mandatory for under 19s and optional for those aged 19+, but all learners will need to be able to complete the classwork.
• Enthusiasm for the industry and a commitment to completing your apprenticeship.
• Keen to develop your skills and grow within the company.
• This is a physical role, but all training will be provided

This apprenticeship is a stepping stone to advanced qualifications and specialised roles within ABP UK.