We’re on the lookout for a Lab Apprentice to join our Quality team and award-winning Talent Programme. At Thatchers, quality is at the heart of everything we do. This apprenticeship is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the lab, developing and testing quality and innovative products, working with our dedicated team of cider experts, learning the Thatchers way- in partnership with the University of Lincoln.

Who are Thatchers Cider?

Since 1904, Thatchers has been crafting some of the world’s best cider. Now in our fifth generation of family cider makers, we take pride in our Somerset roots. We’ve grown a lot, thanks to big investments in marketing, people development, innovative tech, and our world-class cider mill. But guess what? We’re just getting started.

This apprenticeship is an opportunity to catapult your career within a family business that's growing fast, with plenty of opportunities. So, if you’re motivated to grow with our brand and deliver top-notch service along the way, keep reading...

Why choose a lab apprenticeship at Thatchers?

Starting a career is a big step, and at Thatchers, we’ll provide all the training, support, and development you need to shine! Alongside your line managers and college assessors, our dedicated Talent Team will be there to guide you through your full Thatchers Company Induction, as well as support you throughout your career journey, in the form of regular check-ins.

We’ll help you to complete a Level 3 Food & Drink Technologist course in partnership with the University of Lincoln, and we’ll tailor a training plan just for you, helping you grow through attending business events and networking opportunities.

*This apprenticeship involves block study weeks based at the University of Lincoln, which 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!

What are the perks?

• Above average apprenticeship wage

• Tasty discounts at our cider shop (for those over 18!) and pub, The Railway Inn

• Career opportunities in a stable, expanding company

• Student discount card

What will I be doing?

As a Lab Apprentice, you’ll dive into every aspect of lab work and expand your skillset. This full-time role includes college days to balance practical skills and experience with academic knowledge. You’ll work closely with our Quality team to ensure the highest standards of our products.

Some of the skills you will learn:

• Conduct quality control tests on raw materials and finished products

• Assist with the development and implementation of quality assurance protocols

• Perform routine laboratory tasks and maintain lab equipment

• Analyse data and prepare reports

• Support the Quality team with various tasks as needed

What are we looking for?

To be considered as a Lab Apprentice, you’ll need:

• GCSE Maths and English at grade 4/C or above, or Level 2 Functional skills or equivalent

• Good IT skills- specifically in Microsoft Excel

• Highly organized

Personal qualities:

• Continuous improvement mindset

• Confident and good with people

• Thirst for knowledge

• Smartly presented

• Someone who loves to get things done

• Strong work ethic and can-do attitude

• Proactive and a problem solver

• Attention to detail

• Flexible and resilient in changing situations

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