Job - 2026 Apprentice Operator

2026 Apprentice Operator

Runcorn

Closing date; 15th March 2026

First Year Base Pay £24,497 annually + Shares + More Benefits!

DIAGEO APPRENTICESHIPS — YOUR NEXT BIG OPPORTUNITY

Curious about what it’s like to help build some of the planet’s most iconic brands? With over 200 brands sold in nearly 180 countries, we’re the world’s leading premium drinks company. Join us to collaborate, explore, and innovate as you build brands consumers love. Together with passionate people from all over the world, you’ll test new ideas, learn and unlock a brighter, more exciting future.

At Diageo, our apprentices learn by doing, earn industry‑recognised qualifications, and receive outstanding support from people who are dedicated to encouraging your development and success.

We believe your potential deserves a place to shine. Our apprenticeships give you the space to build confidence, develop real‑world skills, and join a community where you can be your authentic self.

You’ll work with leaders who model integrity, good judgement, and a commitment to creating safe, respectful, and empowering environments where everyone can thrive.

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT

• An inclusive culture that welcomes you and values your unique perspective

• Supportive leaders who champion your growth and celebrate your progress

• Skills that set you up for success, including respected qualifications and hands‑on experience

• A safe and encouraging environment focused on wellbeing, learning, and confidence

ABOUT THE ROLE

Step into a role where you’ll keep our production line flowing, champion quality, and help us make world‑class products. You’ll learn fast, think boldly, and play your part in creating a safer, smarter, more efficient workplace.

What You’ll Do

• Run key machinery on the line and switch products with confidence

• Carry out quality checks and keep our standards high

• Keep your area safe, clean, and production‑ready

• Troubleshoot machinery or process issues using hands‑on technical know‑how

• Get involved in improvement projects that make our operations even better

This exciting on the job learning will support you working towards a qualification as a L3 Science Manufacturing Technician. Covering a period of 24 to 30 months you will spend your time between Diageo Runcorn and St Helen's College.

Up to 12 months on the job months will be as Day Shift (7am - 3pm)

Following from this for the remaining apprenticeship you will work 42 hours per week shift pattern, including weekends, days and nights and potentially 12 hour shifts.

Suitable transport to and from work and college would be beneficial

Entry Requirements

 5 GCSE's A-C or Level 5-9 in English, Mathematics and Science are essential along with any practical related technology subjects. All qualifications must be gained in 2024 or earlier.

Who Thrives in This Programme

You’re confident, curious, and ready to grow. You bring a positive, resilient attitude and a genuine enthusiasm for practical, hands‑on work. You enjoy learning from others, take feedback well, and stay organised and calm even in fast‑paced environments.

You love working in a team, communicating clearly, and stepping up when needed. You’re self‑motivated, enthusiastic, and driven to develop into a highly skilled engineer or technician of the future. Most of all, you bring real character, energy, resilience, and a willingness to learn.

Key Qualities

• Confident, resilient, and self‑motivated

• Keen interest in practical and manufacturing work

• Strong communication and teamwork skills

• Open to learning, mentoring, and feedback

• Methodical, organised, and calm under pressure

• Proactive with potential to grow into leadership

REWARDS & BENEFITS

Your first‑year salary follows the Real Living Wage, giving you a strong and competitive starting point. You’ll also receive Diageo’s industry‑leading benefits package.

With the skills, experience, and long‑term opportunities available, this apprenticeship can be a powerful and exciting step toward your future.

Your Future Career

You’ll gain hands‑on experience, develop practical and theoretical expertise, and achieve industry‑recognised qualifications leading to Time Served status. This opens doors to long‑term opportunities across a global, innovative, world‑class organisation and more!

WHAT THE SELECTION PROCESS LOOKS LIKE

STEP 1 — CV Submission

Share your current CV with your education and any experience such as part‑time work, volunteering, sports, hobbies, or projects. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences.

We will review all applications and you should receive notification within 2 weeks on whether you are being progressed to step 2.

STEP 2 — Video Interview

If selected, you’ll complete a short Hirevue video interview.

(Where applicable, you can share your preferred specialty area.)

A short supporting video can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/_ucpYcaRCBc?feature=share

STEP 3 — Assessment Centre

These assessment centres are eld on‑site and last typically around 3 hours. You’ll meet members of the team and take part in activities designed to understand your strengths as well as having the opportunity to meet current apprentices and ask questions. This a positive and energising experience for everyone involved!

A brief supporting video is available here: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/2-xcXrveiRE

WE’RE HERE TO SUPPORT YOU

Our Talent Engagement Team is available for any adjustments or support you may need at any stage. We’ll also share helpful guidance to help you feel confident and prepared throughout the process.

We’re hosting Parent / Caregiver / Guardian information sessions to help support the application process that can be booked here: https://diageocrm.avature.net/en_GB/apprenticeshipparentengagement

(Additional sessions will be offered for candidates as they progress.)

Flexibility is key to success in our business and many of our people work flexibly in many different ways. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform crucial job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.

We’re excited to learn more about you — and to assist you as you take this meaningful next step in your career journey.