How to become a technical brewer
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
- specialist courses or a graduate training scheme
University
You could do a degree in a related subject, like:
- chemical engineering
- food science or food technology
- microbiology
- chemistry
You could continue your professional development by studying for a postgraduate qualification, like a master's in brewing and distilling 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
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College
You could gain some of the skills and knowledge you need for this role through a Level 3 Diploma in Food Science and Nutrition.
You could also consider Food and Drink Qualifications (FDQ) like the Level 2 Certificate for Proficiency in Brewing Industry Skills.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
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Apprenticeship
Apprenticeships relevant to this role include:
- food and drink process operator intermediate apprenticeship
- food and drink advanced process operator advanced apprenticeship
- brewer higher apprenticeship
Entry requirements
There are no set entry requirements but it may help you to get in if you have:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
You may be able to start as a production assistant or other operational role and take training on the job through your employer. Training could include qualifications offered by the Institute of Brewing and Distilling.
Direct Application
You'll usually need experience in a management role and some knowledge or experience in brewing and distilling to apply for jobs directly.
Other Routes
You could take professional qualifications in brewing. These are offered by the Institute of Brewing & Distilling, either online or at a training centre.
If you have a degree, you could apply for a place on a graduate training scheme with one of the larger brewing companies.
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Career tips
It will help if you have enthusiasm for and knowledge of brewing and beers.
Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Institute of Brewing and Distilling or the British Beer and Pub Association for training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
Further information
You can find out more about working in the brewing industry from Brewlab and the British Beer and Pub Association.