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- Tasks: Operate machinery, ensure quality, and contribute to improvement projects in a dynamic production environment.
- Company: Join Diageo, the world’s leading premium drinks company with iconic brands.
- Benefits: Earn £24,497 annually plus shares and an industry-leading benefits package.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience and develop skills for a future career in engineering or manufacturing.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs A-C or Level 5-9 in English, Maths, and Science required.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with supportive leaders and excellent growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 20400 - 24497 £ per year.
Location: Runcorn
Closing date: 15 March 2026
First Year Base Pay: £24,497 annually + Shares + More Benefits!
Diageo is the world’s leading premium drinks company, with over 200 brands sold in nearly 180 countries. Join us to collaborate, explore, and innovate as you build brands consumers love, with support from people dedicated to your development and success.
Our apprenticeships give you 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 on-the-job learning supports you working towards a qualification as an L3 Science Manufacturing Technician. It covers a period of 24 to 30 months and will be spent between Diageo Runcorn and St Helens College. Up to 12 months on the job will be Day Shift (7am – 3pm). Following this, for the remaining apprenticeship you will work 42 hours per week in a shift pattern, including weekends, days and nights and potentially 12-hour shifts. Reasonable transport to and from work and college would be beneficial.
Entry Requirements
5 GCSEs 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, with a strong and competitive starting point. You’ll also receive Diageo’s industry-leading benefits package. This apprenticeship offers valuable skills, experience, and long-term opportunities.
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. Applications are reviewed and you should receive notification within two weeks about progression to step 2.
- STEP 2 — Video Interview: If selected, you’ll complete a short HireVue video interview. If applicable, you can share your preferred specialty area.
- STEP 3 — Assessment Centre: These assessment centres are on-site and last around 3 hours. You’ll meet team members and take part in activities that help understand your strengths and allow you to meet current apprentices and ask questions.
We’re Here to Support You
Our Talent Engagement Team is available for adjustments or support you may need at any stage. We’ll share 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, which can be booked online. Flexibility is key to success in our business and many people work flexibly in 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 provide reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform crucial job functions, and to receive other benefits 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.
2026 Apprentice Operator in Runcorn employer: Diageo
Contact Detail:
Diageo Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land 2026 Apprentice Operator in Runcorn
✨Tip Number 1
Get ready for that video interview! Make sure you’re in a quiet space, dress smartly, and practice your answers to common questions. We want to see your personality shine through, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for the role!
✨Tip Number 2
When you hit the assessment centre, come prepared with questions! This is your chance to learn more about the team and the role. Show us you’re genuinely interested and engaged – it’ll make a great impression!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of networking! Connect with current apprentices or employees on LinkedIn. They can give you insider tips and maybe even help you stand out during the selection process.
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and the company right there. Let’s get you started on this exciting journey!
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 Apprentice Operator in Runcorn
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Stellar CV: Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your education, any relevant experience, and don’t forget to include those practical skills that show you’re ready for hands-on work.
Be Yourself in the Video Interview: When it comes to the video interview, just be yourself! Show off your personality and enthusiasm for the role. Remember, we want to see the real you, so let your confidence shine through.
Prepare for the Assessment Centre: The assessment centre is your chance to shine! Brush up on teamwork and communication skills, and be ready to engage with others. It’s all about showing us how you can contribute to our team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need to help you along the way.
How to prepare for a job interview at Diageo
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand what the role of an Apprentice Operator involves. Familiarise yourself with Diageo's brands and their commitment to quality and safety. This will show your genuine interest and help you answer questions more confidently.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
Diageo is looking for candidates who are curious and eager to learn. During the interview, express your passion for practical work and your excitement about the apprenticeship. Share examples of how you've tackled challenges or learned new skills in the past.
✨Be Team-Ready
Since teamwork is key in this role, be prepared to discuss your experiences working in teams. Think of specific examples where you communicated effectively or contributed to a group project. Highlighting your ability to collaborate will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Ask Smart Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions. Inquire about the training process, opportunities for growth, or what a typical day looks like for an Apprentice Operator. This shows that you're engaged and serious about the opportunity.
