Automation and Controls Engineering Technician Higher Apprenticeship

Automation and Controls Engineering Technician Higher Apprenticeship

At AstraZeneca, we put patients first and strive to meet their unmet needs worldwide. We’re deeply committed to our strategy of being a great place to work. For us, that includes fostering an environment where everyone can be among inclusive, supportive individuals with curious minds.

A company that genuinely follows the science and values individuals at all levels, you’ll be backed and encouraged to speak up, ask questions, and share ideas to push the boundaries of science and continuously learn and explore.

Make the start of your journey a life changing one!

Are you a budding engineer, with an interest in machine automation and control systems? As part of our Early Talent Programme, you’ll be involved in projects and learning opportunities that have real impact from day one.

Being part of our journey and helping us to provide life changing medicine to patients all over the world and transform lives for the better. Making important contributions and embracing our values to deliver on our purpose. Because regardless of role or level, we all have an important part to play in making a positive difference.

AstraZeneca’s Automation and Controls Engineering Technician apprenticeship programme is designed to create the control and automation engineers of the future. Engineering apprentices play a hugely important role at AstraZeneca, solving challenges that arise from some of the most advanced equipment in the industry. You will be part of the AutomationSupport Engineers team, who primarily assist the smooth running of manufacturing in activities such as site maintenance and improvements. They will work closely across shifts with other production roles in a fast-paced and cost-conscious manufacturing environment, where complex problem solving is key.

Under supervision the apprentice will develop a solid grasp of the core automation engineering skills. These skills will not only prepare the apprentice for the workplace in demonstrating that they have the required manual dexterity to do their role, but their competencies are transferable and can be built upon over time. The skills developed are:

• Project engineering capability
• Diagnostics capability
• Instrumentation configuration and calibration
• Industrial networks configuration and support
• HMI & SCADA configuration and programming
• PLC / Robot configuration and programming

Training and Development 

AstraZeneca will sponsor you through this valuable workexperience and you will have the opportunity to study in blocks towards professional qualifications, including a Level 4 HNC in Automation and Controls Engineering Technician at The University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC)

We truly value Early Talent– their thoughts, ideas and contributions. So throughout the programme,you’ll be encouraged and inspired to speak up, have a voice and make an impact.

Essential skills and capabilities

We would be looking for the following attributes from our successful applicants:

• Good communication skills
• Good team working skills
• Logical thinking to be able to apply processes
• Concerns for standards
• High numeracy, digital and literacy skills
• The ability to learn
• Self-motivation

Entry Requirements:

• A minimum of 5 GCSE's at Grade 4or above, including Mathematics, English and a Science, Technology or Engineering related subject.
• Engineering Technical Certificate at level 3, e.g. BTEC with grades merit & merit or above

or

• A minimum of two A Levels at gradeC or above in a Mathematical, Science, Technology or Engineering subject.

At AstraZeneca, we aim to set you up for success and we recognise the challenges that starting anew job can bring. We therefore offer a relocation package to help with the costs and process of moving for candidates who currently live more than 60 minutes from the site location for this Apprenticeship. 

This is a 4 year Fixed Term Contract opportunity based at Macclesfield offering £21,500 starting base salary + 11% benefits fund + bonus.

Opening date of advert:22nd January 2025

Closing date of advert:16thFebruary 2025

Successful candidates will be notified after the closing date and will be asked to attend a virtual Assessment Day on the 20th March 2025.

Should you require any reasonable adjustments or accommodations, please let us know on your application.

Start date for the apprenticeship programme is 1st September 2025

About AstraZeneca

Discover your career with us

Want to start your career at the cutting-edge of medical innovation? To unleash creative ideas that stand out in a global market leader? And work with some of the brightest minds in the industry who will push you to be your best? All while building the personal and professional skills you need to lead our exciting, dynamic evolution? Join us and impact millions of lives, together.

We know full-time studying isn't for everyone. So, our Apprenticeship Programmes offer a practical, exciting and highly rewarding alternative to the traditional route. Where, with some, you can achieve a degree or qualification, earn a salary, and gain the hands-on experience that will set you up for future success. 

Why choose AstraZeneca?

Starting your career with us means following the science, boldly disrupting norms and supporting one another in shaping the future. Collaborate with leaders and teams across a wide range of disciplines and explore your passions. Discover your career purpose with us. And build strong bonds that will last a lifetime.

We discover, design, develop and deliver life-changing medicines. Our teams deliver innovations across all areas of our business – from diabetes care to genetics. With career paths spanning the medical lifecycle, you could be joining us in areas like Clinical Development, Data Science and AI, Finance, Manufacturing or Supply. Explore our opportunities and kickstart the career that could take you from emerging professional to renowned subject matter expert.

How to apply

To apply for this role and to find out more, please click on the apply button.

Please note that applications may close before the application deadline, so apply early to avoid disappointment.