United Utilities ranked 64th in the annual list published by the government and career platform HIGHERiN.
The list highlights employers offering outstanding apprenticeship programmes and experiences.
Jacqui Kawczak, head of early careers and education at United Utilities, said: “We are delighted to be recognised as one of the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers.
“This achievement reflects the dedication of our teams, mentors and apprentices, and highlights our commitment to creating meaningful career opportunities through high-quality apprenticeship programmes.
“We remain passionate about developing future talent, supporting apprentices to achieve their goals, and providing an inclusive environment where everyone can succeed.
“This recognition is another important milestone in our commitment to developing future talent, supporting social mobility, and creating career opportunities that benefit both individuals and our business.”
The ranking places United Utilities among the elite group of apprenticeship employers in England, out of more than 160,000 organisations.
The league table is determined by performance across three main criteria: programme completion rates, breadth and diversity of opportunities – especially for young people – and apprentice feedback.
In its most recent intake, United Utilities welcomed 84 new apprentices in roles including scientist, project controller, digital specialists, mechanical and electrical engineer, customer service advisor, and, for the first time, trainee woodland officers.
More than two-thirds of the intake were aged 16 to 18, reflecting the company’s investment in young people entering the workforce for the first time.
Of the new apprentices, 21 per cent are female, 11 per cent are from ethnic minority backgrounds, and 10 per cent identify as having a disability.
Apprentices earn while they learn, working towards nationally recognised standards endorsed by Skills England while gaining practical, hands-on experience.
Schemes run from 18 months to six years, with degree apprenticeships available in areas such as engineering, quantity surveying, town planning and laboratory science.
Programmes are delivered in partnership with universities, colleges, training providers and United Utilities’ own Technical Training Centre.
The company will welcome a further 86 apprentices and 54 graduates in September.