How to become Technical brewer
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
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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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
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
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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.
Direct Application
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.
Other Routes
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.
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Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Institute of Brewing and Distilling 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.