Head brewer
Direct the beer production process in a brewery.
Also known as: technical brewer
About the job
What it's like
You would be in charge of the beer production process in a brewery.
Typically, you would:
check brewing conditions and beer quality
keep records of production
work with suppliers
make sure ingredients meet high standards
oversee updates or repairs to machinery
look after stock
manage the packaging process
develop, test and produce new beers
manage staff
In a large brewery, you may look after just one area, such as fermentation, packaging or quality control. In a small or micro-brewery, you are likely to be involved in all stages of the brewing process.
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Food and drink Food and drink Chemical sciences
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- delegating
- managing resources
- developing a plan
- concentrating
- attention to detail
- observation
- cooperating
- building relationships
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Biology
Chemistry
Skills for Work: Laboratory Science
Skills for Work: Food and Drink Manufacturing Industry
Foundation Apprenticeship: Automotive
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
Most entrants have a degree (SCQF level 9/10) in Brewing and Distilling, or a relevant science-centred degree such as chemical engineering, food science/technologies, microbiology.
To enter the Brewing & Distilling Degree course at Heriot-Watt University you will need National 5 qualifications and Highers at AABBB or above.
If you apply to this job with a degree in another subject you can gain specialist Brewing qualifications once in the job through the Institute of Brewing and Distilling (IBD).
A postgraduate qualification (SCQF level 11) in Brewing & Distilling is available (Heriot-Watt University).
Physically fit as you may be on your feet a lot of the time.
Good colour vision may be required for some roles.
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