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- Tasks: Kickstart your career with hands-on experience in food and drink manufacturing.
- Company: Join Mars Petcare, a purpose-driven company making a difference.
- Benefits: Earn £20,000 plus bonuses, with access to training and development.
- Why this job: Gain valuable skills and work towards becoming a Lead Operator.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in Maths and English, plus a passion for leadership.
- Other info: Enjoy a dynamic environment with opportunities for growth and learning.
Are you ready to kickstart your career with an exciting 3-year Apprenticeship at Mars? Dive into the world of food and drink as you work towards a Level 3 Food and Drink Technical Operator qualification. This is not just any apprenticeship – it’s your ticket to real-world experience, fantastic training, and a chance to make a difference!
As an operations apprentice, you will gain an understanding of machinery and manufacturing while taking ownership of your designated work areas. This helps you work towards becoming a Lead Operator of a team, which teaches many skills beneficial to your progression and rewarding career.
Salary: £20,000 rising on completion of each academic year + annual bonus + benefits.
Qualifications:
- GCSEs Grade C/4 or above (or equivalent) in Maths and English.
- Passion for Leadership: Show us your interest in leading and working hands-on.
- Collaboration: Thrive as part of a team and bring a positive attitude.
- Eager to Learn: Ready to soak up knowledge and skills.
You’ll need to be 16+ by the 7th September 2026.
Key Responsibilities:
- Technical Development: Learn to identify and solve machine and process issues, driving efficiency, reliability, and continuous improvement across operations.
- Leadership Development: Gain experience coordinating small teams of operators and temporary staff, learning how to motivate and manage people to meet production goals.
- Safety & Quality First: Apply Mars’ high standards to protect colleagues, ensure compliance, and deliver safe, high-quality products.
- Future Growth: Rotational exposure across operations provides insight into supply.
What’s in it for you?
- Purpose-Driven Work: Be part of a company that’s building a better world.
- Training: Access to Mars University and continuous learning from day one.
What can you expect from Mars?
- Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.
- Join a purpose-driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
- Best-in-class learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.
- An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.
Ready to Apply? Applications will be reviewed regularly and may close early if we receive a high number of applicants. We currently expect to hold our assessment days during January and March 2026.
Want to know more about the recruitment process? Visit the Apprenticeship page on our careers website. We are keen for all applicants to demonstrate their full potential during our recruitment process. If you could benefit from any support or adjustments to this recruitment process for any reason, including those related to a disability, please let us know at apprenticesupport@effem.com. Any information you provide will be treated in confidence.
Operations Apprentice - Mars Petcare - Castle Cary employer: Mars
Contact Detail:
Mars Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Apprentice - Mars Petcare - Castle Cary
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Mars Petcare. Understand their values and what they stand for. This will help you connect your own experiences to their mission and show them you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. Focus on how your skills and passion for leadership align with the role of an Operations Apprentice. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your teamwork skills! During the interview, share examples of how you've worked well in teams before. Highlight your positive attitude and eagerness to learn – these traits are key for the collaborative environment at Mars.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows that you’re proactive and serious about landing this apprenticeship. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Apprentice - Mars Petcare - Castle Cary
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let us see your enthusiasm for the role! In your application, highlight any experiences or interests that showcase your passion for leadership and working hands-on in a team environment.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the key responsibilities and qualifications mentioned in the job description. This shows us that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon to ensure we can easily understand your skills and experiences.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our careers website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Mars
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the basics of food and drink manufacturing. Familiarise yourself with Mars Petcare's values and their commitment to quality and safety. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you answer questions confidently.
✨Show Your Leadership Potential
Since this apprenticeship is about developing leadership skills, think of examples from your past where you've taken charge or worked well in a team. Be ready to discuss how you can motivate others and contribute positively to a team environment.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the training opportunities at Mars University or how they support apprentices in their career growth. It shows you're engaged and serious about your future with them.
✨Be Yourself
Finally, don’t forget to let your personality shine through! Mars values collaboration and a positive attitude, so be authentic and enthusiastic. They want to see the real you and how you would fit into their team culture.
