All about Coca-Cola careers

The Coca-Cola Company is a household name. There are around 200 bottling partners worldwide, and this international giant is worth more than 74 billion US dollars.

Coca-Cola is an equal opportunity employer. It's a great place to work, with opportunities for advancement.

If you're on the lookout for a new job, consider the Coca-Cola Company. There are positions available in a range of departments and locations.

To help you get started, we've put together this detailed guide. You'll learn about the application process and the types of benefits you can expect.

We'll also cover salaries, the background check process, and where to start your job search.

What is Coca-Cola?

The Coca-Cola Company is one of the world's leading consumer goods companies. Its headquarters are in Atlanta, GA, and the Coca-Cola brand has been around since the 1800s.

Its most famous drink is Coca-Cola, which most people call Coke. Coca-Cola was originally invented as a medicinal beverage, but by 1888, it was promoted and sold as a refreshing drink.

The Coca-Cola Company has since become a large, multinational business. Besides Coke, the company has other popular beverage brands. The list of over 200 brands includes Diet Coke, Fanta, Sprite, and Dr. Pepper. Its biggest competitor is PepsiCo.

The top three Coca-Cola Company values are diversity, equity, and inclusion. It's a large employer with more than 700,000 employees worldwide.

There is a range of job types, and employees can work full-time, part-time, or on a temporary basis.

What do you need to work at Coca-Cola?

The minimum requirements do vary between jobs. You can read various job descriptions to find out exactly what you need.

There are a few general requirements. For most positions, Coca-Cola expects a high school diploma or equivalent. If you have at least one year of experience, that'll help you get hired.

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The minimum age can be different depending on where you live. However, it's usually 18 years old.

The company relies on a dedicated team, so you'll need to be a team player. Communication skills, organization, and time management are also important.

Knowledge of the beverage range will be an advantage. For many of the positions, you'll be a Coca-Cola ambassador.

If you're applying for a delivery position, you'll need a valid driver's license and confidence on the road. You may also need a commercial driver's license (CDL).

What jobs are available at Coca-Cola?

If you want to join this successful business, there are jobs available now. Popular departments include retail, supply chain, sales, marketing, and business services.

There are multiple jobs to choose from. Here are some of our top picks:

1. Retail sales associate

Retail sales associates work in a store setting. They're part of the sales team and ensure that customers have a positive guest experience.

Retail store associates greet customers and answer questions. They make sure the shelves are stocked and set up merchandise displays.

These team members process credit card and cash payments using point of sale (POS) technology.

Cash handling skills and retail or sales experience are usually a requirement for this job. Some of the skills you'll need are customer service, communication, and time management.

Retail associates may be required to work on weekends and holidays, and the role can be a part-time or full-time one.

2. Stock receiver

Warehouses rely on a team to keep things running smoothly. Stock receivers are responsible for general warehouse duties.

For example, they unload goods and manage inventory. They pack orders and inspect stock to make sure it's in good condition.

Stock receivers use a range of equipment, including box trucks and forklifts. The role can involve heavy lifting and working at heights.

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Stock receivers make sure paperwork is up to date and data is entered into the computer system.

If you want the job, you should be physically fit with good attention to detail. Organization, computer skills, and time management are all essential for the position.

3. Blending master

Blending masters are involved in the production of beverages. They set up equipment, fill bottles, and add labels.

They also make sure the area is clean and tidy. For example, a blending master cleans floors, wipes down surfaces, and scrubs walls.

These team members make sure all finished products are to a high standard.

This role can include running multiple machines at once, so multitasking skills are essential.

If you want to work as a blending master, you'll need some experience in operations. The position can be physically demanding, so you should be physically fit and able to lift heavy packages.

Computer skills, communication, and teamwork are also required.

4. Warehouse technician

Want to work in a fast-paced warehouse environment? A warehouse technician role could be right for you.

Warehouse technicians manage the day-to-day operations of the warehouse. They schedule delivery times and make sure orders are ready for transport.

Warehouse technicians are safety-conscious and ensure that the work environment is safe for workers, visitors, and customers.

These team members train and mentor employees. They keep an eye on their performance and help them succeed.

Warehouse technicians make sure all shipments have the right documentation. For example, they check shipping labels and sign for deliveries.

Leadership and distribution experience is usually on the hiring manager's must-have list. You'll need to be organized, tech-savvy, and a good communicator.

5. Production operator

Production operators work in manufacturing plants. They fill the machinery and make sure everything is working correctly.

If errors happen, the production operator will use their problem-solving skills to troubleshoot. They ensure product codes are accurate and the work area is clean.

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Production operators follow a maintenance schedule. They delegate work to maintenance team members and report any safety concerns. Once maintenance has been completed, they check the quality to make sure it meets Coca-Cola's strict standards.

They attend meetings and follow all safety rules and regulations. Weekend and evening work may be required.

Production operators need to be detail-oriented and have good time management skills.

6. Ingredient scheduler

Ingredient schedulers ensure there's enough stock in the inventory. For example, they plan purchases of ingredients and packaging supplies.

They work closely with suppliers and the logistics team to deliver every order on time.

Ingredient schedulers use software to track inventory and ensure they get the right materials at bulk prices. When new products are added to the range, they help source the supplies.

Supply chain experience is usually a requirement for this role. Ingredient schedulers need strong computer skills, organizational skills, and time management skills.

If you get the job, you'll be working closely with others. Communication and networking skills are essential.

How to apply for a job at Coca-Cola

When you're ready to start the application process, you can head to the careers page on the Coca-Cola Company website.

There are different categories, and you can browse by search term and location. Once you find a job that fits your skills and experience, you can click “Apply now.”

You'll need to create a free job seeker account using your name and email address. Make sure your email is correct because this is how you'll get updates.

If you already have a resume, you can use it to prefill your information. Otherwise, you'll need to go through the step-by-step application process. You'll fill out your details and add your experience.

Next, you'll answer some general application questions. These can vary depending on the job requirements. There's a voluntary disclosure section and a self-identity section.

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Before you hit “Submit,” you'll be asked to review your application. Take your time to read it carefully to make sure you're happy with your answers.

You'll be invited to an interview if you get through this stage. For most Coca-Cola jobs, the interview process has two steps. First, there's a phone interview. Then, there's a panel interview.

For more tips about the recruitment process, visit our Coca-Cola application guide.

Coca-Cola interview tips

After you've submitted your application, you may be offered a phone or video interview. This is your opportunity to make a good first impression.

You should choose a quiet space for your phone interview. Be clear and confident, and do your research before the day of the interview. For example, you can learn more about the Coca-Cola brand and the company's values.

If you get invited to an in-person interview, it'll usually be in front of a panel. Make sure you arrive at least ten minutes early, and bring a copy of your resume.

Choose your attire carefully, and make sure you're well presented. Be careful of your body language, and have a positive attitude.

Common Coca-Cola interview questions

If you make it to the Coca-Cola interview stage, there will be a list of questions you'll need to answer.

These can vary depending on the job type, but a few common questions may pop up. You can practice these at home before the day of the interview:

• Why do you want to work for the Coca-Cola Company?

• Are you familiar with Coca-Cola products?

• Why should we choose you for this position?

• Where do you see yourself in five years?

• Tell us about any previous experience that fits with this role.

• Give us an example of when you worked well in a team environment.

• What is your availability?

• How do you handle conflict in the workplace?

• What is your greatest strength?

• Are you comfortable with repetitive tasks?

• Do you have any questions?

Check out our common interview questions and answers guide if you want more questions to practice answering.

Does Coca-Cola do a background check?

Once you've been offered a job at the Coca-Cola Company, you'll need to pass a background check.

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The type of check can vary depending on the position. For most roles, the company will verify your work experience and education.

Coca-Cola employee safety is a priority, and the hiring manager wants to be sure that any new team members won't be a risk to others. To help them make the right decision, there's a criminal background check. This check usually goes back seven years, but it can even go back ten years or more.

The criminal check will show any misdemeanors or felonies. While there can be red flags, the employer may hire people with background check issues, especially if they've changed their lifestyle.

If you do have a record, you should mention it during the job interview.

If you're applying for a driving position, you can expect a driving history check. Some senior roles require a credit check.

These background checks are free for job applicants.

Does Coca-Cola do a drug test?

Coca-Cola usually asks for a drug test before you can start work. You can expect this step after the final interview — around the same time as the background check.

The most common type of drug screening is a urine test. This test will flag any illicit drugs in your system. The company will also be looking for cannabis and alcohol use.

If you do have a positive drug test, it could impact your employment chances. If you're taking prescription medication, you should discuss this with your doctor.

There may be random drug tests during your employment at the Coca-Cola Company.

What are the top Coca-Cola benefits?

Coca-Cola is an equal-opportunity employer with an inclusive work environment. Plus, employees can take advantage of a range of benefits and perks.

Benefits will vary depending on your job title, your hours worked, and your skills and experience.

You can expect health insurance with medical coverage and reduced-cost prescription drugs. This plan also includes dental and vision insurance.

Other health benefits include tax-free accounts, such as Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).

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There are also different financial benefits. You can set aside some of your pre-tax dollars for your retirement with a 401(k) plan. This retirement plan comes with a company match.

If you meet the minimum requirements, there's life insurance, adoption assistance, paid parental leave, a tuition aid program, and an employee assistance program.

Employees can get 12 paid holidays every year. There are also vacation days, which increase in number every year. For example, after one year of employment, you can take 15 days of vacation. After 10 years, it's 20 days.

Those working in a retail setting can get a discount on Coca-Cola merchandise.

If you want to learn more about the Coca-Cola Company's employee benefits and eligibility requirements, view our comprehensive benefits guide.

How much can you make at Coca-Cola?

The average salary for a Coca-Cola employee in the US is $17.76 per hour.

Of course, each role comes with a different wage. For example, a merchandiser makes between $12.00 and $19.00 per hour. A forklift operator makes an average of $15.00 per hour, and an order filler makes $14.00 per hour.

Production operators make an average of $18.00 per hour. Customer service specialists make $17.00 per hour, and delivery drivers make $19.00 per hour.

Those in corporate positions can make more. As an example, account managers earn an average of $53,581 per year. The median annual salary for a regional sales manager is $85,161, and a brand manager can earn $102,661 a year. Marketing directors make even more, with an average salary of $133,266 per year.

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There are growth opportunities and the potential for bonuses and promotions. If you start as an associate, you could work your way up the career ladder.

Where to find a Coca-Cola job

The Coca-Cola Company is currently looking for new employees. If you want to work for an employer with an inclusive workplace and growth opportunities, it's time to apply.

You can browse our job board for Coca-Cola positions in your area. Create a free Jobcase account, set up email alerts, chat with other job seekers, and prepare your resume.

Alternatively, you can visit the Coca-Cola Company website to see what's available. Look for jobs by keyword, category, and location.

Your Coca-Cola career

In this guide, we covered everything you need to know about Coca-Cola careers.

We told you about some of the top jobs. This list includes retail sales associates, stock receivers, blending masters, warehouse technicians, production operators, and ingredient schedulers.

If you want to apply, there's an online application process. If you're successful, you'll move on to a phone interview, followed by an in-person interview. Remember, you'll need to pass a background check and a drug test.

Employees get a range of benefits, including health insurance, a 401(k) plan, and life insurance.

Coca-Cola employees get a competitive salary and opportunities for promotion.

Ready to find a new job? Want to know what else is available? Check out our job board to see who is hiring in your area. You can find more articles like this one in our resource center.