Trainee Feeder Forehearth Specialist

Irvine Plant

Role description

The Trainee Feeder Forehearth Specialist will work under the guidance of experienced feeder specialist to learn and assist in the operation, maintenance, and optimisation of feeder and forehearth equipment used in glass container production. This role provides hands-on training and technical development, preparing the trainee to progress into a full specialist role. Whilst not a specific mechanical engineering apprenticeship, there is scope for growth and development in that area

Responsibilities:

• Assist senior engineer in operating feeder and forehearth equipment to ensure efficient glass container production.
• Support the job change process by helping establish and maintain stable operation of feeder and forehearth systems.
• Participate in maintenance and inspection routines, learning how to identify and resolve equipment issues to minimise downtime.
• Observe and support adjustments to feeder and forehearth settings in response to container defects or process deviations.
• Record operational data and assist in analysing equipment performance for continuous improvement.
• Learn to identify malfunctions and understand escalation procedures for technical or mechanical problems.
• Comply with all Health & Safety, environmental, and hygiene regulations while developing a strong understanding of safe working practices.

Required skills / qualifications:

• Strong mechanical and technical aptitude with an interest in industrial or manufacturing engineering.
• Good problem-solving skills and eagerness to learn in a hands-on environment.
• Basic computer literacy and good communication skills.
• Commitment to Health & Safety standards and continuous improvement.

What we offer:

• Competitive trainee salary with opportunities for progression upon successful completion of training.
• Salary sacrifice pension scheme with up to 10% matched contributions
• 37 hours per week, which includes 26.5 days holiday + 8 statutory holidays.
• An environment where we support the development and progression of our employees, tailored to the individual’s aspirations and business opportunities.
• Private Healthcare provided by AXA.
• Health and wellbeing initiatives, such as Occupational Health and cycle to work scheme
• Family friendly policies and Company Sick Pay, after qualifying period

Role Profile available on request.

This role is open to internal and external applicants.

Internal candidates must apply via myArdagh.

Closing Date: 27th November 2025

About Ardagh Group

Ardagh Group is a global leader in metal and glass packaging solutions, producing packaging for the world’s leading brands. We trace our roots all the way back to the Irish Glass Bottle Company, founded in 1932. Since then we have grown rapidly to a team of more than 20,000 people with revenues of almost $10 billion. Today we have a presence across Europe, Africa and the Americas.

• Did you know that Ardagh produce many of the beverage cans and bottles you drink your favourite beverages from?
• Did you know we produce metal and glass packaging which are permanent materials, meaning they can be infinitely recycled without any loss of quality?
• Did you know we produce more than 160 million containers per day?

Ardagh is passionate about sustainability and have a reputation for innovation. We push the boundaries of what’s possible, pioneering new production methods, new design techniques and new ways to recycle and save energy. Our aim is to reduce any negative environmental impact whilst remaining economically sustainable and socially responsible.

We believe that the success of our business depends on the success of our people. We strive to create working environments where our employees feel valued, can work to their full potential, and where their achievements are celebrated.

Here at Ardagh, we offer exciting and rewarding opportunities for talented and creative people. If you have ambition and want to make an impact with your career, come and join our team, you’ll enjoy the journey!

Click here for more information about our careers or click here for more information about Ardagh Group.