R&D Pilot Plant Intern (12-Month Internship)

Diageo; Stafford; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

Diageo is offering a one-year internship commencing 1 July 2027 in Bishops Stortford. The role entails owning a technical project, supporting pilot plant work, and contributing to R&D efforts aimed at improving formulation and processing of our products.

Applicants must be enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Brewing and Distilling, Food Science or Chemistry, with practical lab experience and strong organisational and teamwork skills.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's in Chemical Engineering, Brewing and Distilling, Food Science, Chemistry or related discipline.
• A-levels including a science subject.
• Practical experience in a laboratory environment.
• Willingness to work hands-on in a pilot plant.
• Good organisational skills and ability to follow procedures.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Proficiency with Word, Excel and Outlook.
• Positive, flexible attitude and self-motivation.
• Desire to learn and contribute to R&D projects.

Responsibilities

• Take ownership of at least one technical project with support from the wider team to improve understanding, formulation and/or processing of products.
• Support research sample production from start to finish including production requirements, scheduling, analytical testing and sample storage or shipment.
• Champion safe working practices, good housekeeping and Good Laboratory Practice.
• Support technicians with day-to-day pilot plant operations, including maintaining ingredient stocks and routine instrument calibrations.

Skills

Lab experience

Hands-on

Organization

Communication

MS Office

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s in Chemical Engineering/Brewing & Distilling/Food Science/Chemistry

Job description

Job Description

Important Information – Internship Duration, Eligibility and Start Date

This is a one-year internship commencing on 1 July 2027. Applicants must be currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree programme in Chemical Engineering, Brewing and Distilling, Food Science, Chemistry, or a related discipline.

Application closing date: 30th November

Annual salary: £26,000 GBP

About The Function

Innovation is where new ideas take shape, and where we challenge what our brands can become next.

About Therole

• Take ownership of at least one technical project, with support from the wider team, to improve our understanding, formulation and/or processing of our products.
• Support research sample production from start to finish. This includes agreeing production requirements and schedules, carrying out production activities, agreeing and completing analytical testing, and arranging sample storage or onward shipment.
• Champion safe working practices, good housekeeping and Good Laboratory Practice.
• Support our technicians with the day-to-day running of the pilot plant, including maintaining ingredient stocks and carrying out routine instrument calibrations.

Experience/skills required:

• A-levels, or equivalent, including a science subject.
• Currently studying towards a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Brewing and Distilling, Food Science, Chemistry or a related discipline.
• Practical experience of working in a laboratory environment.
• Strong practical skills and a willingness to work hands‑on in a pilot plant.
• Good organisational skills, with the ability to follow procedures, manage multiple activities and maintain accurate records.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Confidence using Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.
• A positive and flexible approach to work.
• Self-motivation and willingness to take responsibility for routine tasks.
• A desire to learn, develop new skills and contribute to R&D projects.

Useful, But Not Essential

• Knowledge or experience of brewing, spirits, wine, fermentation and/or distillation.

Working with Us

Flexibility is key to our success. Talk to us about what flexibility means to you so that you’re supported to manage your wellbeing and balance your priorities from day one.

Our purpose is crafting iconic drinks chosen for life’s moments. And it’s our people, with their different experiences, perspectives and talents, who make that possible.

We value diversity in its broadest sense and want everyone to feel they can belong, contribute and strive for their personal best. You’ll work alongside people with different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives — challenging, supporting and learning from one another as one outstanding team.

Together, we’re constantly learning and improving, combining the strength of our people, capabilities and iconic brands to raise the bar, grow and win. Wherever you join us, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute, make an impact and play your part in making life’s moments mean a little more.

Ready to bring your best? This could be your opportunity.

If you require a reasonable adjustment, please ensure that you capture this information when you submit your application.

Worker Type

Internship (Fixed Term)

Primary Location:

Bishops Stortford

Job Posting Start Date

2026-10-28