At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn the art of cask care and regeneration in a hands-on apprenticeship.
- Company: Join Diageo, the world's leading premium drinks company with iconic brands.
- Benefits: Earn a competitive salary, bonuses, shares, and industry-leading benefits.
- Why this job: Be part of a craft community where your growth and skills truly matter.
- Qualifications: National 5 English, Maths, and a Science or Technical subject required.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive environment focused on wellbeing and career development.
The predicted salary is between 21500 - 26500 ÂŁ per year.
Closing date: 15th March 2026
First Year Base Pay ÂŁ26,577 annually + Bonus + 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.
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 craft that has shaped Scotland's whisky story for centuries. As an Apprentice Cooper at Diageo's modern Cambus Cooperage, you’ll learn the art of caring for, preparing, and regenerating the casks that help create some of the world’s most iconic spirits. This is hands‑on, purposeful work—perfect for someone who loves learning by doing, enjoys a challenge, and wants to be part of a supportive team where everyone can thrive.
You’ll blend tradition with technology, confidence with curiosity, and skill‑building with real career opportunities. And yes, this is absolutely a craft for everyone.
What You’ll Be Getting Involved In:
You’ll be supported as you build your skills, but expect to get stuck in from day one. Key responsibilities include:
- Rebuilding and regenerating whisky casks used across Diageo's distilleries, restoring them to the highest standards.
- Working to daily and weekly production targets, helping ensure casks are ready for filling, warehousing, disgorging, and handling.
- Supporting quality at every stage, keeping a close eye on detail so each cask meets Diageo's top‑tier standards.
- Learning safe and effective handling techniques, using both traditional craft tools and modern hydraulic or robotic machinery.
- Championing health & safety, making it a natural part of how you work every day.
- Getting involved in problem‑solving and continuous improvement, sharing your ideas and helping shape smarter ways of working.
If you want a role that is physical, creative, meaningful, and within a craft community where your growth genuinely matters, this apprenticeship could be your perfect starting point. This four‑year programme will end with you being a fully qualified Cooper accredited by the Cooperage Foundation.
Entry Requirements:
- National 5 English
- National 5 Maths
- Additional National 5 in a Science, Technical or hands-on subject.
Who Thrives in This Programme:
You’re the kind of person who shows up ready to shine, someone who takes real pride in what they do and isn’t afraid to roll up their sleeves. You love staying organised (yes, even keeping your workspace tidy!), and you bring a positive, flexible energy to any team you’re part of. Whether you’re chatting confidently with people, helping out your teammates, or trying something new, you’re all about growing your skills and making a great impression.
You communicate clearly, handle tasks with confidence, and you’re always open to learning along the way. You’re reliable, adaptable, and full of potential bringing a friendly spark wherever you go.
Key Skills & Strengths:
- Great time‑keeping & punctuality - you show up ready and on time
- Strong organisation skills - including keeping your workbench or workspace clear
- Pride in your work - you care about doing things well
- Team player - supportive, positive, and great to work with
- Flexible with tasks - happy to jump in wherever needed
- Confident communicator - comfortable speaking with the public and answering questions
- Networking ability - you know how to connect with people
- Adaptability - able to adjust quickly to different situations
- Basic computing skills - solid foundations to build on
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.)
- STEP 3 - Assessment Centre: These assessment centres are held 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.
We’re here to support you:
Our Talent Engagement Team is available for any adjustments or support you may need at any stage. 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 Cooper in Belfast employer: The Association of Technology, Management and Applied Engineering
Contact Detail:
The Association of Technology, Management and Applied Engineering Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land 2026 Apprentice Cooper in Belfast
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Diageo and its brands. This will help you connect your skills and experiences to what they value, showing that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Try doing mock interviews with friends or family. This will help you get comfortable with common questions and allow you to articulate your passion for the role of Apprentice Cooper more confidently.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your personality! During the interview, let your enthusiasm shine through. Diageo is looking for someone who fits into their inclusive culture, so don’t be afraid to share your unique perspective and experiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your appreciation for the opportunity and reinforces your interest in the apprenticeship. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds!
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 Apprentice Cooper in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft Your CV: Start by putting together a CV that highlights your education, experience, and any relevant skills. Make sure to include part-time jobs, volunteering, or hobbies that show off your teamwork and communication skills. We want to see what makes you unique!
Be Yourself in the Video Interview: If you get selected for the video interview, just relax and be yourself! This is your chance to show us your personality and passion for the role. Don’t forget to prepare a few examples of how you've demonstrated your skills in the past.
Show Enthusiasm at the Assessment Centre: When you arrive at the assessment centre, bring your positive energy! Engage with the team and other candidates, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about the opportunity to learn and grow with us.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about Diageo and what we stand for before you apply!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Association of Technology, Management and Applied Engineering
✨Know Your Craft
Before the interview, take some time to research the role of a Cooper and the importance of casks in whisky production. Understanding the craft will not only impress your interviewers but also help you answer questions more confidently.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Diageo values teamwork, so be ready to share examples of how you've worked well with others in the past. Think about times when you supported your teammates or contributed to a group project, and be prepared to discuss these experiences.
✨Emphasise Your Adaptability
The role requires flexibility and the ability to handle various tasks. Prepare to talk about situations where you've had to adapt quickly to new challenges or changes in your environment, showcasing your problem-solving skills.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! This shows your interest in the role and the company. Consider asking about the training process for apprentices or how the team collaborates on projects. It’s a great way to demonstrate your enthusiasm!