Food Science Jobs at Diageo
Join Europe’s largest spirits bottling operation as a Food Safety Lead, and play a pivotal role in shaping the safety and regulatory excellence of a brand-new zero-alcohol product line. Based at the iconic Leven Processing site, the Food Science Jobs at Diageo Careers offer opportunities to influence global standards, lead microbiological functions, and strengthen food safety culture in one of the world’s most innovative beverage environments.
Job Details:
- Position: Food Safety Lead
- Location: Leven, Scotland
- Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
- Requisition ID: JR1120821
- Posted On: December 10, 2025
- Application Deadline: January 11, 2026
- Industry: Beverage Manufacturing / Food Safety / Microbiology
- Work Environment: High-speed bottling operations for alcoholic & non-alcoholic beverages
About the Company:
Diageo is the world’s leading premium drinks company, home to over 200 renowned brands sold in 180 countries. With an unwavering commitment to innovation, inclusion, and excellence, Diageo fosters a work environment where curiosity thrives and careers flourish. The Leven site is Europe’s largest spirits bottling hub, packaging Scotch whiskies, white spirits, RTDs, and more for over 170 global markets. Diversity, creativity, and continuous learning form the core of Diageo’s workplace culture.
Educational Requirements for the Food Science Jobs:
- Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Food Science, or a related scientific discipline
- Extensive knowledge of classical microbiology: aseptic technique, dilutions, plating, filtration, environmental monitoring
- Background in low/no alcohol products or high-risk food categories (preferred)
Key Responsibilities of the Food Safety Lead:
- At Diageo Careers, you have to lead the site’s Food Safety Plan, including hazard analysis, CCP/OPRP management, validation & verification
- Ensure audit readiness for FSSC 22000, ISO 9001, GRMS, and internal audits
- Oversee Microbiology Laboratory functions: environmental monitoring, method updates, and microbiological testing
- Manage food safety incidents including micro positives, foreign body investigations, and glass breakage
- Support supplier approval processes focusing on spirits, mixers, syrups, water, and flavorings
- Ensure robust sanitation controls and cleaning validation across bottling operations
- Deliver food safety and GMP training to promote strong site-wide food safety behavior
- Lead RCPS (Root Cause Problem Solving) and CAPA activities
- Manage microbiological laboratory team and budget to meet operational goals
Skills Required for the Food Safety Lead Role:
- Expertise in microbial risks for alcoholic & non-alcoholic products (yeast, mould, spoilage organisms, biofilms)
- Strong proficiency in aseptic technique and microbial identification
- In-depth understanding of CIP/COP, sanitation validation, troubleshooting microbial issues
- Advanced knowledge of HACCP, GMP, Food Safety Management Systems (FSSC 22000 preferred)
- Ability to analyze and trend microbiological data and interpret results for risk-based decision-making
- Familiarity with environmental monitoring tools (RLU trending, ATP tests, water quality)
- Strong command of QMS systems for document control, specification management & digital audit tools
- Excellent leadership, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills
Benefits of the Food Safety Lead Role:
- Opportunity to lead food safety for a new, zero-alcohol product category
- Work with one of the world’s most respected beverage companies
- Professional growth in a high-speed manufacturing environment
- Exposure to global standards and advanced microbiology operations
- Inclusive culture with a focus on creativity, innovation, and personal development
- Competitive compensation, benefits, and long-term stability
