The Business of Beer: Three Types of Brewing Jobs on the Rise
07/30/2024
The brewing industry is experiencing a period of rapid growth, blending rich tradition with modern innovation. This is good news for those who enjoy indulging in the beverage, but it's also great news for anyone interested in building a career around it.
Alongside the surge in brewing establishments comes a wave of new careers, making brewing not just an enjoyable hobby but a promising career path. Keep reading to learn more about different types of brewing careers worth considering.
The Growth of the Brewing Industry
From small craft breweries sprouting across landscapes to major conglomerates expanding their portfolios, the brewing industry is booming. In 2023, the overall beer market was a nearly $117 billion industry, according to the Brewers Association.
They also reported the total number of breweries in the U.S. jumped more than 300% in the last decade. This includes microbreweries, brewpubs, taproom breweries, regional breweries, contract brewing companies and alternating proprietors.
The increase in brewing establishments naturally leads to an increased demand for professionals who keep the operations running smoothly. From entry-level positions to more specialized roles, the brewing industry is thirsty for passionate individuals ready to innovate and iterate on centuries-old traditions.
Three Types of Jobs in the Brewing Industry
1. Production
The production side of brewing is where science meets art. It involves the meticulous processes of mashing, boiling, fermenting, conditioning and packaging. Professionals in this domain ensure the beer’s quality, consistency and innovation in flavors.
Common brewery jobs in this area include:
- Brewmaster: The heart of the brewery, this role is responsible for overseeing the entire brewing process. Duties include crafting beer recipes, selecting quality ingredients, managing fermentation and exploring innovative brewing techniques.
- Quality assurance manager: Oversees the rigorous quality control processes that ensure each batch of beer meets the brewery's standards of clarity, flavor and consistency. Their evaluation procedures help safeguard the brand's reputation for excellence.
- Brewery operations manager: Ensures the brewery production process is efficient and profitable. This role is responsible for managing the brewery's inventory, scheduling production runs and coordinating with other departments to ensure that all orders are filled on time.
2. Sales and marketing
The storytellers of the brewing world, those working in brewing sales and marketing are tasked with creating and nurturing the bridge between breweries and consumers. They work to brand, promote and sell the beer, making every sip a story to tell.
Common brewery jobs in this area include:
- Brand ambassador: Represents the brewery at events and tastings, engaging directly with the public to elevate brand awareness and loyalty. These individuals embody the spirit and values of the brewery, communicating the unique qualities of its products and building buzz for the brand.
- Sales representative: Drives distribution by building and maintaining partnerships with vendors such as retailers, bars and restaurants. Duties include identifying sales leads, educating prospects through calls, trainings and presentations, and providing support to nurture relationships with existing vendors.
- Marketing coordinator: Develops marketing strategies and campaigns to promote individual beers and the brewery's overall brand. This includes leveraging social media, advertising and events. Duties also include analyzing customer behaviors and preferences to inform future campaigns.
3. Distribution
Once a beer is brewed and deals are made with vendors, the product must make the journey to its destination. This process involves strategic planning in order to navigate the supply chain and logistics complexities.
Common brewery jobs in this area include:
- Distribution manager: Oversees the distribution process, from inventory management to delivery routes, ensuring beer is stocked and accessible. This position requires strategic and operational oversight, leading a team made up of warehouse staff, drivers and logistics personnel.
- Logistics coordinator: Handles the details of transportation and delivery schedules, optimizing routes and solving distribution puzzles. Duties include coordinating with vendors, planning delivery routes, finding ways to reduce costs and ensuring all shipments meet legal and regulatory requirements.
- Warehouse supervisor: Manages the day-to-day operations of the warehouse. This includes overseeing inventory control and management, ensuring adherence to safety standards and directing warehouse staff.
Brewing a Bright Future
As you can see, there are a variety of brewing careers out there for those looking to capitalize on the growth in the industry. From brewing and operations to marketing, sales and distribution, you can put your passion to work in this fascinating field.
Saint Louis University offers an online certificate that can help strengthen your existing skillset with specialized teaching and training from brewing experts in the St. Louis area. Learn more about what you can expect from our Brewing Science and Operations Certificate.
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