Operations Apprentice - Mars Petcare - Castle Cary

Mars, Incorporated; Castle Cary; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A global food company in Castle Cary is offering a 3-year Apprenticeship for a Level 3 Food and Drink Technical Operator qualification. As an operations apprentice, you will gain valuable experience in machinery and manufacturing, while also developing leadership skills and contributing to a positive workplace. The role offers a competitive salary starting at £20,000 with an annual bonus and comprehensive training support.

Benefits

Access to Mars University

Annual bonus

Industry competitive salary

Purpose-driven work

Qualifications

• You need to be 16+ by the 7th September 2026.

Responsibilities

• Learn to identify and solve machine and process issues.
• Coordinate small teams of operators and temporary staff.
• Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
• Gain insight into supply through rotational exposure.

Skills

GCSEs Grade C/4 or above in Maths and English

Interest in leadership

Team collaboration

Eagerness to learn

Job description

Overview

Job Description: 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 isn't 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 whilst taking ownership of your designated work areas. This helps to 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

What are we looking for?

• 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

What will be your 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: https://careers.mars.com/uk/en/apprenticeships

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 [e-mail]. Any information you provide will be treated in confidence.

#UKApprenticeships26

Join us and be part of something extraordinary. Your future starts here!