Technical Brewer
What is the work like?
As a technical brewer you would manage the production of beers and lagers, making sure the quality and consistency of the product is of a high standard. You would oversee the biochemical process of brewing, which involves boiling malted barley with hops and water, and cooling and fermenting it with yeast so the natural sugars turn to alcohol.
Your work is likely to include:
- checking the temperature and quality of beer
- keeping detailed records of the brewing process
- sourcing suppliers
- making sure raw materials meet the right standard
- overseeing technical developments
- stock control
- managing the packaging process.
Your role could also include developing new beers (for example, in response to public demand) or managing other brewery workers.
Working with a large brewery, you could be responsible for just one part of the production process, such as fermentation, packaging or quality control. In a small or micro-brewery, you are more likely to be involved in all stages of the brewing process.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
To start as a trainee brewer you will usually need a degree in a related subject, such as applied chemistry, chemical engineering, food science/technology, brewing and distilling. Some employers will also accept a relevant BTEC HNC/HND. Check with colleges and universities for details of entry requirements.
Many employers will also look for evidence of your ability to manage a team. Previous experience in a management role, or degree modules in business management may help show your potential in this area.
You may be at an advantage if you also have some experience or knowledge of brewing or distilling. You could contact larger breweries to arrange work experience or to observe their brewing process. The Institute of Brewing and Distilling runs a General Certificate in Brewing and Packaging course, which would also give you an overview of the brewing process.
What further training and development can I do?
Once you have started with a large brewery, you will usually join a structured graduate training scheme, which may involve travelling to different production sites to gain in-depth knowledge of the company and processes.
Whether you work with a large or small brewery, you will usually be encouraged to work towards two professional examinations set by the Institute of Brewing and Distilling:
- the Diploma in Brewing
- the Master Brewer qualification (usually taken after four or more years in the industry).
Some degree courses give you exemption from the Diploma in Brewing – the Institute can give you further details.
As a manager in the drinks industry, you could continue your professional development by studying for a postgraduate qualification, including an MBA in Brewing and Distilling.
Where can I go for more information?
33 Clarges StreetLondon
W1J 7EE
Tel: 020 7499 8144
1 Nine Elms Lane
London
SW8 5NQ
Tel: 020 7627 9191
2 Innovation Close
York
YO10 5ZF
Tel: 0845 644 0448
http://www.improve-skills.co.uk/
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries for technical brewers can be between £20,000 and £28,000 a year.
- At middle management level this can rise to between £30,000 and £40,000.
- Head brewers or senior managers can earn around £50,000.
Employees in micro-breweries may earn less.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would usually work 40 hours a week. However, this work involves regularly checking the brewing process, so you are likely to work a shift system including evenings, weekends and nights.
You would mainly work in the beer production area overseeing the brewing process. This is a noisy industrial environment and you would need to wear protective clothing.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- advanced scientific knowledge, particularly in biochemistry
- engineering knowledge
- an understanding of machinery
- strong practical skills
- good decision making and problem solving skills
- good levels of physical fitness
- management and organisational skills to lead a production team
- strong spoken and written communication skills.
What opportunities are there?
You will find most job opportunities within larger breweries. Some have production bases across the world, which may give you the chance to work overseas.
Vacancies are advertised in the local press and on graduate recruitment websites. The British Beer and Pub Association can also provide contact details for many breweries.
With experience you could progress to senior brewer or technical director, although you may need to change employer to further your career. Alternatively, you could become self-employed and set up your own micro-brewery producing speciality beers. The Society of Independent Brewers website has more information on this area of the industry.
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