Young people across Carlow can now apply for Pfizer’s 2026 Apprenticeship Programme

Young people and career changers across Carlow are being encouraged to consider applying for Pfizer’s newly launched 2026 Apprenticeship Programme.

The programme offers 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:

READ NEXT: Shortlist announced for Carlow final of National Enterprise Awards 2026 - Carlow Live

• 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 about the programme, John Sourke, VP, Global Biotech Operations, Pfizer, said: “At Pfizer, our purpose is breakthroughs that change patients’ lives and a career here provides the opportunity to contribute to medicines that impact millions of people around the world. We are passionate about supporting the next generation to pursue careers in STEM and life sciences, which is essential to our future. Our National Apprenticeship Programme here in Ireland gives apprentices the opportunity to earn and learn while developing the skills needed to build rewarding careers and contribute to life-changing medicines.”

Con Ferry, Director of Apprenticeships Capacity and Integration at SOLAS, said: “At SOLAS, we are proud to partner with Pfizer Ireland and our education stakeholders to deliver apprenticeships that combine real-world experience with nationally recognised qualifications. Apprenticeships are a major route to skills development in Ireland, providing dynamic and practical career pathways for people of all ages.

"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.”

Pfizer Apprentices Share Their Experiences

• Abbie Jago (22), who completed a QC Lab Apprentice in Grange Castle in 2024 before joining Pfizer full time: “The apprenticeship has given me real-world work experience from day one, something I wouldn’t have gotten through the traditional college route. The balance of hands-on work and study has been challenging at times, but it has taught me independence, boosted my confidence, and helped me develop key skills.”
• Sofia Kahwaji (21), Electrical / Instrumentation Apprentice, Ringaskiddy: “After achieving 601 points in my Leaving Certificate, I chose this apprenticeship to gain hands-on experience I couldn’t get at university. This pathway isn’t about how many points you get, it’s about being willing to learn and it’s open to anyone who wants to develop real skills. That is exactly what I get to do every day, working alongside highly skilled craftsmen and building invaluable practical experience.”
• Ben Kirwan (22), MAMF Apprentice, Newbridge: “This apprenticeship has been the perfect start to my career. I get real-world experience, while continuing my education and earning.”

Entry Requirements

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 www.pfizer.ie/career/apprentice-programme before the closing date of March 17th.