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Food Professional Apprenticeship - UK and Ireland

As we receive a high volume of applications, please make sure to read the job descriptions on our website carefully and apply for the ONE function you are most interested in. Only your first application will be considered.

About our UK and Ireland apprenticeships

Our apprenticeship programmes allow people from all backgrounds to find their purpose and rise to their full potential, whilst learning invaluable skills and earning a wage. All our programmes offer you on the job experience and formal training to give you the knowledge and skills to fire-up your career and give you the opportunity to work towards nationally recognised qualifications. From the engineers in our factories, to the scientists in our research and development sites; producers of brand artwork to those creating mobile optimised websites; our apprentices bring fresh ideas and deliver innovative ways to meet the everyday needs of our consumers, helping them to rise to their full potential.

Job description

What is the job?

Our purpose is to create a brighter future with you and for you. That future begins in Research and Development (R&D). If you want to develop into your best self while being part of a global organisation that can take you in any direction, this is for you.
There are always new ways for our products to improve the lives of our consumers and have a positive impact on the planet. In R&D you'll discover what consumers want and develop the technology to make our innovations come to life. Unilever R&D apprentices follow a structured programme that allows you to put your science education and passion into practice while getting a degree.

What do we look for?

As an R&D degree apprentice, we look for strong communication skills both verbal and written as apprentices may be required to write reports, emails or give presentations. The world of food research and development is always evolving and being adaptable and flexible with a willingness to learn new things is key. Problem-solving skills, showing the ability to analyse situations, think critically, and propose possible solutions are key strengths in the R&D environment. Good team working skills are important, as a global R&D centre we often work in cross-functional teams and across regions of the globe. Being able to collaborate with your team harmoniously is paramount. Good time management skills are also important, you must be able to meet deadlines, manage multiple tasks, and show initiative without needing constant supervision.
Above all have a passion for food and an enthusiasm for learning.

What could your day-to-day role look like?

Our apprentices follow a structured and stimulating academic programme to achieve a BSc Honours degree in Foods Science & Technology aligned to the Foods Professional degree apprentice standard, as well as working on real projects with world-renowned scientists that deliver to some of the 2.5 billion consumers who use a Unilever product every day.
As an R&D Degree Apprentice, you will work with the Colworth Research & Development Product team, leading the way in developing new great tasting drinks. Over the 5 years you will study for a BSc while experiencing working in different aspects of Research & Development working on real projects, leading the way in developing new great tasting drinks, This could see you spending time on projects like:
  • Developing new products for the global market
  • Delivering world class innovations in great tasting drinks
  • Working on sustainable ideas, new science and great inventions helping Unilever remain competitive in a global market
Alongside working on real projects for our millions of global consumers, you’ll be supported by experienced colleagues, working with different teams and partners to gain knowledge and skills that will help you develop into a Unilever R&D Food Professional.

What support will you receive during your apprenticeship?

You will be allocated a buddy from our existing apprentices, who will support you during your first year with us. We also have a vibrant and supportive apprentice community at our site, and they arrange socials and charity events for you to get involved in.

Duration

5 Years

Requirements

Have GCSEs including English Language and Maths at grade 5 or above. Have or are predicted a minimum of 3 A-levels or equivalent with grades of BBC or above including 2 STEM subjects.

Locations

Colworth Science Park, Sharnbrook (Bedfordshire)

What can Unilever offer you?

  • A Competitive Salary of £22,716
  • A pension Scheme
  • A discounted staff shop
  • Subsidised Gym Memberships
  • Shares
  • 25 days of holiday allowance

Discovery Centres

12th February 2026

Closing date

This is a rolling deadline, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment in case applications close early.
If you have any questions about your application or if you require any reasonable adjustments to be made to complete any part of the application process, please contact the Future Careers Team. If you would like to discuss any mitigating circumstances before making an application, please also contact the team using the following contact details: futurecareers.recruitment@unilever.com.

Application process

  • Step 1: Online Application

    Complete the online application form and tell us all about your motivation for choosing Unilever and your selected programme. It is a simple and easy process.

    1

  • Step 2: Online Assessments

    Upon successful completion of your application form, you will be invited to complete a numerical and verbal reasoning assessment alongside a situational judgement test, which gives you realistic, hypothetical scenarios where you will be asked to identify the most appropriate response.

    2

  • Step 3: Discovery Centre

    You will be invited to spend a day with us in person, immersing yourself in Unilever business challenges.

    3

Apply now

To apply for any of our UK and Ireland Apprenticeships, you'll be redirected to an external application platform where you can register and complete your application for your selected apprenticeship.

Apply to a UK and Ireland apprenticeship

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