Technical brewer

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• an apprenticeship
• applying directly
• specialist courses or a graduate training scheme

University

You could do a degree in a subject like:

• food science or food technology
• brewing and distilling
• microbiology
• chemistry
• chemical engineering

You could continue your studies by doing a postgraduate qualification, like a master's in brewing science or biochemical engineering.

Entry requirements:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

Entry requirements:

Apprenticeship

You could apply to a brewery company for a place on a Brewer Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship.

This apprenticeship can take up to 2 years to complete.

Entry requirements:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

Work

You may be able to start as a brewery production assistant or other operational role and take training on the job through your employer.

DirectApplication

You'll usually need at least 2 years' experience in brewing to apply for technical jobs directly. Employers may also want you to have recognised industry qualifications like those offered by the Institute of Brewing and Distilling.

OtherRoutes

You could take professional qualifications in brewing, for example the Foundation in Brewing , before applying for a job as a trainee with a brewery.

If you have a degree, you could apply for a place on a graduate training scheme with one of the larger brewing companies.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Skills:

• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with others
• knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
• to be flexible and open to change
• knowledge of chemistry for brewing, fermenting and distilling
• the ability to use your initiative
• excellent verbal communication skills
• administration skills
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• science skills
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• customer service skills
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to read English
• active listening skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• maths knowledge
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• excellent written communication skills
• concentration skills

What you'll do:

Technical brewers are in charge of beer making processes, quality control and packaging.

As a technical brewer, you could:

• select, mix and store raw ingredients
• manage the brewing process
• monitor production and make quality checks at each stage
• oversee packaging and labelling
• develop new beer recipes, production methods and products
• keep detailed production records

Location : You could work at a brewery.
Environment : Your working environment may be noisy and humid.
Uniform : You may need to wear protective clothing.

Salary:

Starter : £22,000
Experienced : £34,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

39 - 41 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends on a rota

Career Path:

With experience you could progress to senior brewer, technical director or overall production manager.

You might also become self-employed and set up your own micro-brewery business.