Apprentice Hatchery Maintenance Engineer at Woodbridge, Ipswich 21/11/2025

Gressingham Foods; Ipswich; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading poultry company in Ipswich is seeking a motivated Apprentice Hatchery Maintenance Engineer. This role offers hands-on experience in maintaining automated systems within a busy environment. Candidates should have a genuine interest in engineering and a practical approach to problem-solving. The apprenticeship includes paid time for college study and comprehensive support from experienced mentors. Competitive salary of £12.21 per hour is offered.

Benefits

Private counselling support services

Pension enrolment

Family events

Employee Draw

Long Service Awards

Qualifications

• Genuine interest in engineering and automation.
• Ability to communicate effectively in a team environment.
• A full UK driving licence or reliable travel method to site.

Responsibilities

• Assist with maintenance and repair of hatchery systems.
• Learn to diagnose issues on automated equipment.
• Complete routine maintenance tasks.
• Keep accurate maintenance records.

Skills

Interest in engineering

Practical problem-solving

Good communication skills

Teamwork skills

Reliability

Motivation

Willingness to learn

Education

GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science

Job description

Apprentice Hatchery Maintenance Engineer at Woodbridge, Ipswich

Posted 21/11/2025

We’re looking for a motivated and hands‑on individual to join our team as an Apprentice Hatchery Maintenance Engineer, reporting to the Engineering Manager. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain real‑world experience while working towards your Level 3 Mechatronics Maintenance Technician apprenticeship.

You’ll learn how to maintain, troubleshoot, and improve automated equipment and systems within a busy poultry hatchery environment – playing a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of our production processes.

What you’ll be doing:

• Assisting with the maintenance, repair, and installation of mechanical, electrical, and control systems used in hatchery operations
• Learning how to fault‑find and diagnose issues on a wide range of automated equipment
• Completing routine maintenance tasks under supervision
• Keeping accurate maintenance records and reporting issues
• Attending college (typically 1 day per week) to complete your Mechatronics Maintenance Technician qualification
• Developing your skills and knowledge through both on‑the‑job training and academic study

What we’re looking for:

• A genuine interest in engineering, mechanics, and automation and how things work
• A practical, hands‑on approach to problem‑solving
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• Reliability, motivation, and a willingness to learn
• GCSEs (or equivalent) in English, Maths, and Science at grade 4/C or above (or working towards)
• A full UK driving licence or ability to get to the hatchery site reliably

What we offer:

• Full support and mentoring throughout your apprenticeship
• Paid time to attend college to complete the Mechatronics Maintenance Technician apprenticeship
• Hands‑on experience with modern hatchery equipment and systems
• Opportunities for progression and further training upon completion
• Being part of a supportive, experienced engineering team in a growing business
• Competitive apprenticeship salary

Company Benefits:

• Private counselling support services
• Auto enrolment Pension available
• Staff and family events
• Monthly Employee Draw
• Long Service Awards

Job Type: Permanent

Location: Ipswich

Hours per week: 40‑45 Hours per week

Working Times: Working hours will be approximately 05:45 am – 14:45 pm, with a 30 minute paid lunch break. Additional hours may be required at the weekends for additional out of hours maintenance.

Pay Rate: £12.21 per hour.

Interested:

Please contact the HR department by email – [e-mail] to request an application form.