Location: Intel Ireland, Leixlip, Co. Kildare 

Training Partner: Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) 

Qualification: Higher Certificate in Manufacturing Engineering (Level 6, NFQ) 

Duration: 23 months (including two x 15 week academic blocks in DkIT) 

Employment Type: Full-Time Paid Traineeship 

About the Opportunity 

Intel Ireland, in partnership with Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT), is offering a unique paid traineeship for individuals looking to launch a career in high-tech manufacturing. This 23-month programme combines full-time paid employment with academic study, leading to a nationally recognised Higher Certificate in Manufacturing Engineering (Level 6, NFQ). 

No prior semiconductor or manufacturing experience is required. We welcome applications from school leavers and those seeking a career change. 

What You Will Do 

Working alongside experienced engineers and technicians, you will: 

• Develop practical technical skills within a high-tech semiconductor manufacturing environment 

• Support equipment troubleshooting, maintenance and optimisation activities 

• Assist with process improvement and problem-solving initiatives 

• Learn about automation, robotics and advanced manufacturing technologies 

• Work with engineering documentation, procedures and technical drawings 

• Collaborate across manufacturing, engineering, quality and operations teams 

• Meet all academic and workplace learning requirements throughout the programme 

What You Will Gain 

• Competitive salary throughout the programme 

• Fully funded Level 6 Higher Certificate in Manufacturing Engineering (DkIT) 

• Hands-on industry experience from day one 

• Dedicated mentoring and structured coaching 

• Exposure to advanced manufacturing and automation technologies 

• Potential long-term career opportunities at Intel Ireland upon successful completion 

Who Can Apply 

We believe great talent comes from many different backgrounds. This traineeship is open to three distinct groups of applicants: 

🎓 School Leavers 

If you have recently completed your Leaving Certificate and are looking to earn while you learn rather than pursue a traditional college route, this could be the perfect opportunity for you. 

• Minimum 160 CAO points 

• Five Leaving Certificate subjects at Grade O6/H7 or above 

• Mathematics is required 

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🔄 Career Changers  

If you are ready to take your career in a new direction, we want to hear from you. You do not need a Leaving Certificate to apply. We recognise that life and work experience are valuable, and we welcome applicants who can demonstrate: 

• A minimum of 5 years of work experience in any sector 

• Motivation to develop a career in engineering or manufacturing 

• The ability to commit to full-time employment and part-time academic study 

📋 QQI/Further Education and Training (FET) Applicants 

If you have already completed a further education qualification and are ready to take the next step, this programme offers a clear progression pathway. 

• Relevant QQI/FET Level 5 or Level 6 qualification 

• Leaving Certificate Mathematics requirement applies 

What We Are Looking For 

• Genuine interest in engineering, manufacturing or technology 

• Strong problem-solving ability and attention to detail 

• Effective communication and teamwork skills 

• Positive, proactive attitude with a willingness to learn 

• Basic computer literacy