Packaging Development Technologist Degree Apprenticeship 2026

Are you passionate about food and packaging design?

Are you curious to learn how products go from concept to supermarket shelves? Do you enjoy problem solving and bringing ideas to life? Would you like to help shape the future of iconic British brands like Oxo, Bisto and Mr Kipling?

We’re looking for an enthusiastic Packaging Development Technologist Apprentice to join our expert Packaging Research & Development team at our Worksop site, to play a key role in designing, testing and delivering innovative and sustainable packaging solutions.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Work towards completing the Level 6 Packaging Development Technologist apprenticeship, gaining a BSc degree in Packaging Technology at Sheffield Hallam University (on block release).
• Combine academic learning with real-world experience in a development unit located within our R&D centre at Worksop.
• Turn ideas into reality and work as part of a cross functional project team to bring innovative packaging concepts to life, developing ideas from initial concept through to launch.
• Explore new technologies and materials that can improve packaging performance, provide sustainability benefits or value improvement opportunities, and communicate developments to key stakeholders.
• Support and take ownership of packaging development projects, including factory trials, supplier onboarding, print runs, and product launches.
• Help define what success looks like for each project and ensure it’s delivered.
• Attend and participate in face to face and remote meetings, related to project work and other R&D activities.
• Get involved in factory trials and learn how packaging performs on real production lines, including setting objectives and defining success criteria for trials.
• Support implementation of new packaging and value improvement opportunities across manufacturing sites and co-packers.
• Collaborate and build relationships with multiple functions across the business including technical, quality, regulatory, manufacturing, marketing and innovation.
• Build relationships with key site operations and engineering functions and raise packaging technical knowledge within these teams.
• Build strong partnerships with packaging suppliers to develop innovative packaging solutions.
• Identify opportunities to improve packaging performance, reduce waste, and increase efficiency.
• Support cost-saving initiatives and explore opportunities to bring 3rd party production in-house.
• Help maintain packaging specifications and packaging databases, ensuring correct data is captured.
• Maintain and correct cutter guides and sign off new artwork against packaging responsibilities.
• Ensure all packaging meets legal and regulatory requirements in the UK and internationally.
• Contribute to sustainability reporting, compliance documentation and data capture.
• Gain hands-on experience with packaging materials and machinery and build understanding of their performance.
• Support training and knowledge sharing within teams.
• Regularly review progress with your skills tutor and Packaging Development Manager.

What You’ll Gain

• Real world experience working on live product launches.
• Opportunities to collaborate across multiple business functions.
• Hands on learning in both office and factory environments.

What We’re Looking For

• A general interest in developing a career in the packaging and consumer goods industry.
• At least 96 UCAS points from 3 A-Levels or equivalent BTEC – Science-based, Maths, Design and Technology subjects preferred.
• GCSE Grade C/4 or above (or equivalent) in English and Maths.
• Computer literate (i.e.: knowledge/experience of Microsoft Office packages).
• Enjoy problem solving and have an eye for detail.

Interviews w/c 24th August 2026/ September for start in October for programme start in January 2027

Rewards & Benefits

• A competitive salary, increasing each year based on successful academic and practical progress.
• Company pension scheme with life assurance.
• 5 weeks’ holiday + bank holidays.
• Access to a range of employee benefits, including:
• Staff discount scheme; Onsite subsidised canteen; Company shop; ShareSave scheme; Cycle to Work scheme; Employee assistance programme; BOOST – our Apprentice Skills Development Network.

Diversity and Inclusion

At Premier foods we believe in inclusion, authenticity and individuality. We aim to ensure all existing and future colleagues are given equitable opportunities and are respected, valued and encouraged to bring their true authentic selves to work no matter who they are, what they look like, who they love or what they believe in. Our culture is one where everyone is welcome. We're proud to be a Disability Smart employer and are committed to supporting disability inclusion throughout our recruitment process. If you experience any access issues or require reasonable adjustments at any stage, please let us know so we can ensure you have the support you need.

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.