Pfizer launches 2026 Apprenticeship Programme in Kildare

Pfizer has announced the launch of its 2026 Apprenticeship Programme at its Newbridge site in Kildare, offering aspiring apprentices a unique pathway to enter a rewarding career in science, engineering and manufacturing.

The programme is open to people of all ages and is suitable for both school leavers or any individual seeking a change of career or education programme.

Twenty-two apprenticeships will be available in total across Ireland, including six at Pfizer’s Newbridge facility, with applications accepted online until March 17 2026.

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 hands-on experience while earning 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.

There are six opportunities available at Newbridge including:

• 4 x QC Laboratory Apprenticeship positions: 3 years, leading to a QQI Level 7 science qualification (available at Grange Castle & Newbridge).

• 1 x Mechanical Automation & Maintenance Fitter (MAMF) Apprenticeship: 4 years, craft apprenticeship (available at Ringaskiddy & Newbridge).

• 1 x Electrical Instrumentation Apprenticeship: 4 years, craft apprenticeship (available at Ringaskiddy & Newbridge)

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Donnchadh Murphy, Site Lead at Pfizer Newbridge, said “At our Newbridge site, Pfizer are committed to nurturing the next generation of scientists and engineers. Our apprenticeship programme gives people the chance to develop practical skills, gain real-world experience, and build a strong foundation for their careers.

“Beyond learning, our apprentices contribute directly to our mission of delivering innovative medicines that make a real difference to patients, both here in Ireland and across the globe."

The programme supports Pfizer’s ongoing commitment to training and developing a highly skilled workforce capable of advancing scientific innovation and improving the lives of up to a billion patients worldwide.

One current apprentice already forging that path is Ben Kirwan, a 22-year-old third-year Mechanical Automation and Maintenance Fitting (MAMF) apprentice from Clane, Co. Kildare.

Ben shared his experience "I decided to do an apprenticeship because I wanted a more hands-on approach to my education. Before starting at Pfizer, I completed a year studying architecture at TUD Bolton Street, but I realised it wasn’t the right fit for me. Joining the apprenticeship has allowed me to continue my education while learning how a real workplace operates.

“The apprenticeship is giving me a head start in my career and it is great to be earning while still going to college. From day one, I’ve been able to build practical skills that will serve me for years to come."

Also commenting, 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.”

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, and those who are successful undergo a group assessment and interviews before 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 pharmaceutical company.

Applications for Pfizer’s 2026 Apprenticeship Programme in Ireland are now open. Those interested in launching a career in engineering and advanced manufacturing in Kildare are encouraged to apply via Pfizer’s early careers page at www.pfizer.ie/career/apprentice-programme before the closing date of March 17.