Level 3
Apprenticeship!Employer!College 16+
Process Manufacturing!Engineering
Food and Drink Technical Operator Apprenticeship Level 3 (September 2026 Start)
This apprenticeship will qualify you to work in the food and drink manufacturing industry.
- Attendance - Full-time
- Duration - 30 months (+EPA)
- Start Date - September
- Where - Engineering Centre
COURSE
OVERVIEW
If you want to work behind-the-scenes of the food and drink industry, this apprenticeship is for you. During the apprenticeship, you will learn how to keep the manufacturing process running smoothly by learning how to operate a range of machinery, perform front-line diagnosis and resolution and how to perform basic maintenance on the equipment used by your employer.
A big component of this apprenticeship is getting trained up in compliance, so you will learn how to conduct risk assessments, complete traceability records and implement incident management procedures.
Within your job, you will be working as part of a wider team of process operatives, technical operators and site workers. You will gain valuable hands-on experience, developing your technical and professional skills.
You will also be required to undertake thorough health and safety training to prepare you for working safely on site. When you have your college lessons, you will attend the Process Manufacturing Centre in Huddersfield to develop your knowledge, skills and behaviours relevant to the job role and food and drink industry.
Finance and Funding
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Entry Requirements
You will need a Level 2 apprenticeship or related qualification, and maths and English GCSE at grade 4/C.
To start your apprenticeship you must have secured employment that the college has agreed is suitable.
Assessment Methods
You will undergo End Point Assessment at the end of your apprenticeship.
Course Progression
Employment
Career Progression
This apprenticeship will qualify you to work as an Advanced Operator, Manufacturing Technician, Process Development Technician or other related job role.
WHAT CAREER PATHWAYS CAN THIS COURSE LEAD TO
Wide range of jobs in this industry
Excellent choice of employers in this industry
Qualifications & levels explained
There is a wide range of qualifications and levels available, but not all of them may be right for you. If you’re not sure what qualification type or level you should be searching for, take a look at our qualifications explained.
Find the perfect career
We can help you find that perfect career even if you’re not sure what it is yet! At Kirklees College, our mission is to make you as successful as you can be, from finding the right career to gaining the right skills.