Operations Apprentice in Winscombe

We have an exciting opportunity for passionate, driven individuals to join our award-winning Thatchers Talent Programme as an Operations Apprentice!

Since 1904, Thatchers has been crafting some of the world’s best cider. Now in our fifth generation of family cider makers, we take huge pride in our Somerset roots. We’ve grown significantly thanks to major investments in marketing, people development, state-of-the-art technology, and our world-class cider mill—but we’re just getting started. Joining Thatchers as an apprentice means becoming part of one of the fastest-growing, family-run businesses, with huge opportunities to develop your skills and career.

As part of this role, you’ll be gaining hands-on, practical experience across our state-of-the-art packaging & production facilities—including supporting primary process with apple pressing, learning about blending & the fermentation process, as well as working across our packaging lines. You’ll combine practical, real-world learning with high-quality academic development, receiving all the training, support & development you’ll need to succeed!

Starting a career in operations & manufacturing is a big step, and we’re here to help you every step of the way through:

• Full Thatchers Company Induction
• Regular check-ins with our Talent Team
• One-to-one support from your line managers & college assessors
• A tailored training plan to help you grow
• Opportunities to attend business events and networking sessions

In return, we ask for hard work, dedication and trust. We want you to own your apprenticeship and share the same enthusiasm and passion for our business as we do!

As an Operations Apprentice, you’ll be based at our home of Myrtle Farm in Somerset, on a full-time basis, completing a Level 3 Food & Drink Technical Operator Apprenticeship (delivered by UCS College Group) all whilst learning everything there is to know about turning our apples into the finished products, from pip to pint! A major part of your apprenticeship will be working on our packing line, using state-of-the-art engineering and technology. You’ll be part of the team responsible for maintaining, operating, and fixing production line machinery, while also taking charge of hygiene, positive wastage and health and safety. You’ll also learn the science behind the cider-making process and get the chance to work with our lab technicians and specialist cider experts.

Specifically, you will:

• Understand the full process of making and packaging our cider
• Conduct essential quality control tests
• Operate and maintain state-of-the-art equipment across all 4 production lines
• Develop the technical skills to solve breakdowns
• Work with different teams to ensure timely and efficient production

This role is based full-time at our home, Myrtle Farm in Somerset & includes shift work as part of the role (days/nights/weekends depending on your age).

You will need:

• GCSEs in Maths and English grade 4 or above
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work well as part of a team
• A pro-active, can-do attitude
• Great attention to detail
• Flexibility and resilience in changing situations
• A thirst for knowledge and the drive to go the extra mile

Personal Qualities that Shine at Thatchers:

• Confident and great with working as a team
• Motivated and eager to learn
• Passionate about understanding new equipment, processes or technology
• Trustworthy & hardworking
• Pro-active approach

What are the Perks?

• Above average apprenticeship wage
• Shift bonus available
• Tasty discounts at our cider shop (for those over 18!) and pub, The Railway Inn
• Career development opportunities within a stable, expanding business
• Student discount card
• Additional training opportunities to develop your personal skills

Thatchers is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants.