Bio Process, Chemical Process Technician

The Bio Process, Chemical Process Technician Apprenticeship is a “earn while you learn” higher certificate programme that combine on the job training with academic study.

This two year programme is suitable for leaving certificate students or those with an equivalent qualification, who have in interest in pursuing a career in BioPharma sector. This apprenticeship leads to a level 6 Higher Certificate in Bio Process and Chemical Process Technician.

The Apprentice will support manufacturing operations by assisting with routine production activities, including equipment preparation, material handling, in‑process checks, basic equipment verification, and production area housekeeping. The role includes supporting sampling activities, preparation of materials or solutions for manufacturing use, stock control, and maintenance of production equipment and tools.

All work will be carried out and recorded in compliance with GMP, safety standards, and site procedures, under the guidance of experienced manufacturing personnel.

The Level 6 Bio Process/ Chemical Process Technician Apprenticeship supports the continuous learning and hands on work experience by the apprentice completing two 15 week off the job training (academia) cycles combined with on the job (working within a sponsor company) learning structure. The off the job aspect of this programme is delivered in TU Dublin, Tallaght Campus.   

During the first year of the programme the apprentice will attend two weeks induction with their employer before commencing a 16 week academic learning block.  The apprentice will then return to their employer for a period of approximately 36 weeks per year.

At the start of their second year on the programme the apprentice will once again attend academia for a 16 week block before returning to their sponsoring company to complete 36 week on the job learning.

At the end of the second 36 week block the apprentice will conclude their apprenticeship.

Further information can be found at www.ProcessTechApprenticeship@Ibec.com 

Applicants for this apprenticeship must have:

• Pass (Grade 06 or better) in five Leaving Certificate subjects, two of which must be maths and a science subject or relevant FETAC Level 5 or Level 6.

This criteria does not apply to over 23’s, but all applicants will follow company and SOLAS recruitment procedures.

Year 1

• GxP 1
• Safety and sustainability
• Applied Mathematics for Manufacturing Operations
• Manufacturing 1
• Manufacturing 2
• Integrated Professional Development 1
• Workplace based learning 1

Year 2

• GxP 2
• IT & Automation Systems
• Operational Excellence
• Contamination Control and Clean room operations
• Manufacturing 2 – Drug Formulation
• Integrated Professional Development 2
• Workplace based learning 2

To become an apprentice in Ireland you must be hired by an employer. Apprenticeship employers are formally approved by SOLAS in advance of employing apprentices. Apprentices get a formal contract of employment as part of their apprenticeship.

To register your interest in the programme please contact ProcessTechApprenticeship@Ibec.ie.