Technical Brewer

As a technical brewer, you'll oversee the brewing process, taking responsibility for raw materials, operatives and technicians, as well as maintaining the safe and effective running of the plant and machinery.

You may specialise in just one area of production or one type of beer - likely in larger breweries or have responsibility for all aspects of the process in small breweries. You'll also develop new recipes and products.

Technical brewing remains a hands-on occupation, despite increasing reliance on technology.

Responsibilities

Depending on the size and type of brewery, you'll typically need to:

• purchase raw materials, such as hops, yeast and cereal, making sure they meet the required quality standards
• monitor fermentation and check temperatures and the quality of samples, making any necessary production adjustments
• accurately record raw materials, production stage timings and quality checks
• perform yeast counts and cropping
• work with the lab team, who carry out further tests to improve products
• introduce new or different methods of brewing
• find new suppliers and review existing ones
• manage resources and staff to meet objectives
• ensure the correct storage and stock management of raw materials
• work on new recipes for seasonal and speciality beers ensuring they appeal to a particular market, or will enhance sales at a specific time of the year
• help to design beer labels or marketing materials
• plan budgets, keeping track of stock and records of raw materials
• clean and maintain all equipment, making sure the strictest levels of hygiene are kept throughout the brewing process
• ensure all work meets quality and safety standards
• keep up to date with developments in technology in the industry.