Young people and career changers across Limerick are being encouraged to consider applying for Pfizer’s newly launched 2026 Apprenticeship Programme, which offers aspiring apprentices a unique pathway to enter a rewarding career in science, engineering and manufacturing.
A total of 22 opportunities are available across Pfizer’s sites in Grange Castle (Dublin), Newbridge (Kildare) and Ringaskiddy (Cork), with applications open online until 17th March.
Delivered as part of Ireland’s National Apprenticeship Programme in partnership with SOLAS, the national further education and training authority, the apprenticeships combine paid, on-the-job learning with academic study. Participants gain practical experience while achieving nationally recognised QQI qualifications. Depending on the discipline, apprenticeships range from two to four years and provide structured pathways into careers in science, engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain.
The programme plays an important role in supporting Pfizer’s purpose of delivering breakthroughs that change patients’ lives. Apprentices contribute to the manufacture and supply of innovative medicines that help treat and prevent disease, both in Ireland and globally. Through continued investment in training and development, Pfizer aims to build the skilled workforce needed to advance scientific innovation and improve the lives of up to a billion patients each year.
Pfizer is recruiting across a number of key areas:
QC Laboratory Apprenticeship (Grange Castle & Newbridge): 3 years, leading to a QQI Level 7 science qualification.
Logistics Apprenticeship (Grange Castle): 2 years, leading to a QQI Level 6 qualification in supply chain and logistics.
Manufacturing Engineering Apprenticeships (Grange Castle): 3 years, leading to QQI Level 7 qualifications in Maintenance or Core Engineering.
Mechanical Automation & Maintenance Fitter Apprenticeship (Ringaskiddy & Newbridge): 4-year craft apprenticeship.
Electrical Instrumentation Apprenticeship (Ringaskiddy & Newbridge): 4-year craft apprenticeship.
Speaking to Live95 News about the programme, John Sourke, VP, Global Biotech Operations, Pfizer, said they are “passionate about supporting the next generation to pursue careers in STEM and life sciences, which is essential to our future”.
Also commenting, Con Ferry, Director of Apprenticeships Capacity and Integration at SOLAS, said:
“Programmes like this highlight how apprenticeships not only meet the needs of our economy but can also open doors to rewarding long-term careers in sectors such as science, engineering, and advanced manufacturing, providing individuals with valuable opportunities for growth and long-term success”.
Requirements are designed to be inclusive and flexible, with Leaving Certificate results, relevant QQI qualifications and Recognition of Prior Learning all creating eligibility. Candidates brought forward to next stages will complete an online assessment, with successful applicants progressing to group assessments and interviews before final selection.
Pfizer’s apprenticeship programme aims to develop Ireland’s future talent in science, engineering and supply chain operations while offering meaningful career pathways in a world-leading biopharmaceutical company.
Applications for Pfizer’s 2026 Apprenticeship Programme are now open. Those interested in launching a career in science, engineering, manufacturing or supply chain are encouraged to apply via Pfizer’s early careers page at http://www.pfizer.ie/career/apprentice-programme before the closing date of March 17th.
Read more on Limerick's Live 95
