Technical brewer

You could study for a degree in a subject, such as:

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

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

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 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

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• student finance for fees and living costs|https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
• university courses and entry requirements|https://www.ucas.com/

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

This can take up to 2 years to complete.

Entry requirements

To get onto an apprenticeship, you'll find it useful to have:

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

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• guide to apprenticeships|https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide

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

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 Chartered Institute of Brewers and Distillers.

You could take professional qualifications, 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.

Career Tips

Forklift truck training could be helpful when applying for jobs, though employers may put you through this when you start.

Further Information

You can find out more about working in the brewing industry from Brewlab and the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates .

As a technical brewer, you could:

• select raw ingredients and manage the brewing process
• monitor production and make quality checks at each stage
• clean and maintain brewing equipment
• oversee kegging, canning, packaging and labelling
• develop new beer recipes and brewing methods
• keep detailed production records
• manage stock and order raw ingredients from suppliers
• assist with product promotion to wholesalers, local markets, beer festivals and on social media

You could work at a brewery or distillery.

Your working environment may be noisy and humid.

You may need to wear protective clothing.