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

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

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.

You'll need:

• knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with others
• to be flexible and open to change
• knowledge of chemistry for brewing, fermenting and distilling
• the ability to use your initiative
• excellent verbal communication skills
• administration skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You'll need to:

• be over 18 years of age

You may need a full driving licence for some jobs.

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.