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Early careers at AstraZeneca

Process Engineering Apprenticeship

    APPLICATIONS FOR 2023 ARE NOW CLOSED

    About the programme 

    The Process Engineering apprenticeship is within our Pharmaceutical Technology and Development (PT&D) Function, which turns innovative drug candidates into medicines that have the potential to help millions of people.

    We work across the entire value chain, designing and delivering active ingredients, formulations and devices required to support new medicines; from supplies used in clinical trials, to developing the technology to ensure drugs can be scaled up for commercial manufacture.

    Working within our Drug Substance Pilot Plant, you will gain experience in operation of our manufacturing facilities, and have opportunities to spend time with our Process Safety, Engineering and Particle Size Reduction groups. You will also work closely with our Early Chemical Development function, with the opportunity to directly apply concepts you will learn during your degree studies to the development and scale-up of our manufacturing processes. Throughout the Programme, you’ll develop quickly with other high performers who will push and challenge you to be your best, whilst you do the same. Working hard, and having fun doing it. Building a rich and supportive network that will last a lifetime.

    How does the programme work?

    This 5-year apprenticeship offers a real alternative to full-time university, with the opportunity to study for a BEng (Hons) in Chemical Engineering.

    How we will support you

    AstraZeneca is a huge advocate of early careers and we all want you to succeed. In return for the passion and energy you will bring to the function where you will be based, we will support your apprenticeship all the way and you will be encouraged to fulfil all of your potential. You will have access to excellent development opportunities, playing a crucial role in your team, whilst being supported to network and socialise with your peers so you can see the impact of your creativity and ideas. All apprentices across our business have the support of their line manager, mentor, buddy (who is normally an existing or ex-apprentice to support you as you move into our business and your role) and the AstraZeneca early talent network.

    Where you will be based

    These roles are available at our Macclesfield Campus.

    Essential requirements

    What we're looking for:

    • Enthusiastic individuals
    • A passion to learn
    • Confidence to work independently
    • Logical thinking
    • The ability to apply a rational approach to problem solving
    • Demonstrable initiative
    • Self-motivation

    Please see individual job advertisements for specific educational requirements.

    Parents, Carers and Teachers

    For information that may be useful to parents, carers and teachers please visit this page.

    Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

    Our mission is focused on creating an inclusive and equitable environment, where people feel they belong.
    To find out more about our inclusion and diversity policy, click here.

    Our latest Early Talent opportunities

    View all of our Early Talent opportunities

    Our recruitment process

    Curious to find out what happens after you apply? learn more about the process you'll go through and get some hints and tips here.

    Apprenticeship Application Roadmap

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

    Learn more about AstraZeneca’s Apprenticeship Programme.

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    Great culture, great work assignments, supportive management. Rotation opportunity within the company. They value inclusion and diversity.