Brewing science jobs are more plentiful every year! Breweries are popping up everywhere across the country. And, these breweries are creating lots of jobs. You may be interested in a career in the brewing industry but don’t know how to get started.
One way to start your career in brewing science is to enroll in a class or program. Many schools have begun offering online programs in response to the demand for training and education.
In addition, some of these schools have developed brewing degree programs that are entirely online or in a hybrid format. So, students can earn a brewing science certificate online, and take classes around their family and work schedule.
*This article was first written in January of 2022 and updated in August 2024.
How Much Can You Make With a Certificate or Degree in Brewing Science?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not have statistics on these job profiles. But, Payscale has the current data we used. An entry-level job at a brewery will usually pay around $27,000 to $35,000. With more experience, workers can earn more. Getting knowledge and specific education or credentials in the field can improve your job prospects and pay. And there are many flexible brewing certificate programs online!
What Jobs Can You Get With A Certificate or Degree in Brewing Science?
Brewing Science Certificate programs prepare students for entry-level positions in large-scale or craft-scale facilities. Individuals who have recently graduated with a Certificate in Brewing Science are qualified for many different positions. Some of the typical entry-level jobs with associate-level training are listed below.
The salary an employee can earn will depend upon several factors such as qualifications, skills, and experience. Unfortunately, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) doesn’t collect detailed statistics on these job profiles. However, online salary reporting platforms, like PayScale and ZipRecruiter, have current salary data we used.
Brewer Technician
A Brewer Technician is responsible for performing various support tasks in production. These tasks may include canning, bottling, cellar work, and general housekeeping operations, with assistance in maintenance duties in other departments as needed.
An entry-level Brewery Technician with less than a year of experience can expect to earn around $23,500 a year, while an experienced Brewery Technician Salary may be as much as $66,500 a year. ZipRecruiter reports the average salary at $44,888 per year, or around $22.00 an hour.
| Source | Average Salary | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| PayScale | $41,823 | $32,000 to $65,000 |
| ZipRecruiter | $44,888 | $23,500 to $66,500 |
Cellar Worker
The primary focus of the Cellar Worker is to ensure the quality and integrity of the product. A Cellar Worker’s duties involve the fermentation cellar where a brewery makes the beer. They are also responsible for the quality of the beer sent to be packaged.
An entry-level Cellar Worker with less than a year of experience can expect to earn around $31,000 a year, and an experienced Cellar Worker can earn as much as $39,000 a year.
| Source | Average Salary | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| PayScale | $41,823 | $31,000 to $39,000 |
| ZipRecruiter | $41,816 | $26,000 to $51,000 |
Brewery Packaging Technician
A Brewery Packaging Technician in a usually operates the canning line machinery or keg line. They are responsible for quality control. In addition, they clean and sanitize packing areas and maintain the packing equipment.
An early career Brewery Packaging Technician with less than a year of experience can expect to earn around $31,000 a year, and an experienced Packaging Technician can earn as much as $129,000 a year. ZipRecruiter reports the average salary at $76,119 per year, or around $37.00 an hour.
| Source | Average Salary | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Zippa | $35,973 | $28,000 to $44,000 |
| ZipRecruiter | $76,119 | $31,000 to $129,000 |
Brewer
A Brewer makes beer for a brewing company. Depending on the company’s size and operation, the Brewer may have additional responsibilities. An entry-level Brewer with less than one year of experience can expect to earn around $30,000 a year, and an experienced Brewer can earn as much as $50,000 a year.
| Source | Average Salary | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| PayScale | $41,823 | $32,000 to $60,000 |
| ZipRecruiter | $44,888 | $23,500 to $66,500 |
Head Brewer or Brew Master
A Head Brewer, also called a Brew Master, typically oversees all beer-making operations. In addition, they are responsible for quality control of the product, equipment sanitation and maintenance, and training new workers. Other tasks include inventory, ordering supplies and ingredients, and supervising packaging. A Head Brewer can expect to earn between $38,000 and $154,000 a year.
| Source | Average Salary | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| PayScale | $48,481 | $39,000 to $82,000 |
| ZipRecruiter | $119,021 | $23,174 to $154,043 |
What Is The Job Outlook With A Certificate or Degree in Brewing Science?
Employment in the brewing industry is expected to increase steadily. The total number of breweries in the US in 2012 was 2,670. This count increased to 8,884 in 2020. In 2001 the brewing industry employed 27,805 workers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that in 2016 the number had grown to 58,580 workers. In 2020, the industry employed around 80,000 workers and had a market share of about 30 billion. As long as people drink beer there will be jobs for those who make it!
Advancing Your Career in Brewing Science
Many companies prefer a certificate in brewing science for entry-level cellar, packaging, and maintenance jobs. A certificate usually provides a general overview of the brewing industry and its day-to-day operations. It also covers the basic knowledge used on the job for cleaning and sanitation.
Associate Degree
A two-year associate degree in brewing science is preferred for entry-level brewhouse, packaging, and maintenance jobs. These programs emphasize the practical skills needed for the day-to-day operation of a brewery.
Bachelor’s Degree
A bachelor’s degree in Brewing Science, a graduate certificate in Brewing Science, or a master’s degree in Brewing Science is preferred for management-level jobs. These degrees require a high degree of knowledge. Students must have a basic understanding of business and work on a team. In addition, they must know about fermentation, brewhouse engineering, safety, and packaging.
Your Career – Brewing Science Jobs
There are many educational paths to choose from when deciding to enroll in one of the Top Online Schools for Brewing Science. A brewing science certificate or degree program can give you an advantage when getting a job in the brewing industry.
Not only will you learn about the science behind brewing, but you will also gain valuable knowledge about how a brewing business runs. A brewing science class, certificate, or degree will give you a leg up and is a good investment.
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