If you have a passion for craft beer and love to interact with people, then working as a beertender at a brewery might be the perfect job for you. But how do you land one of these coveted positions? In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about finding and securing beertender jobs at breweries.
Introduction to the brewing industry
Craft beer has exploded in popularity over the last decade, leading to a surge in the number of breweries across the country. According to the Brewers Association, there were over 8,000 craft breweries operating in the United States in 2020, with more opening each year.
This growth has created a wealth of job opportunities in the brewing industry, from production and packaging to marketing and sales. But perhaps the most visible and customer-facing role is that of the beertender, who serves as the face of the brewery and helps customers navigate the wide range of beer styles and flavors on offer.
Types of brewery jobs available
While beertender jobs are the most common entry-level position at a brewery, there are plenty of other roles to consider as well. Some of the most common include:
- Brewer: responsible for crafting and brewing the beer
- Cellarman: oversees the fermentation and conditioning of the beer
- Packaging technician: responsible for canning, bottling, and kegging the beer
- Sales representative: promotes and sells the brewery’s products to retailers and bars
- Marketing and communications: creates and executes the brewery’s marketing and PR strategy
Each of these roles requires different skills and qualifications, so it’s important to research the specific job you’re interested in before applying.
Benefits of working in a brewery
In addition to the obvious perk of being surrounded by delicious beer, working in a brewery has a number of other benefits. These might include:
- A fun and casual work environment
- Opportunities for creativity and experimentation
- The chance to learn about the science and art of brewing
- Being part of a tight-knit and passionate community
- Potential for career growth and advancement
Of course, like any job, there are also challenges to working in a brewery, such as long hours, physical labor, and tight deadlines. But for those who are passionate about beer and enjoy a fast-paced, dynamic work environment, it can be an incredibly rewarding career choice.
Qualifications and skills required for beertender jobs
While beertender jobs don’t typically require a formal education or specific qualifications, there are a few key skills and traits that can help you stand out as a candidate. These might include:
- Knowledge of beer styles and brewing processes
- Strong communication and customer service skills
- The ability to multitask and handle a high-pressure environment
- Attention to detail and cleanliness
- A friendly and outgoing personality
In addition, many breweries prefer candidates who have previous experience in the service industry, such as bartending or waiting tables. This can demonstrate your ability to work with customers and handle a fast-paced environment.
Understanding the art of pouring beer
One of the most important skills for a beertender is understanding how to properly pour and serve beer. This includes knowing the ideal serving temperature, the correct glassware to use, and how to create the perfect head of foam.
Different beer styles may also require different pouring techniques, such as a slow and steady pour for a traditional German hefeweizen or a quick and aggressive pour for a nitro stout. It’s important to understand these nuances in order to provide the best possible experience for customers.
Tips for landing beertender jobs at breweries
If you’re interested in working as a beertender at a brewery, here are a few tips to help you stand out as a candidate:
Researching brewery jobs near you
Start by researching local breweries in your area and checking their websites or job boards for open positions. You can also use job search sites like Beerwork.com to find available positions.
Crafting the perfect brewery job application
When applying for a beertender position, be sure to tailor your application to the specific brewery and job description. Highlight any relevant experience you have, such as previous bartending or customer service roles.
Interview tips for brewery job seekers
During the interview process, be prepared to discuss your knowledge of beer styles and your experience working with customers. Show that you’re passionate about the brewery’s products and culture, and be ready to answer questions about your availability and work schedule.
Continuing education and growth opportunities in the brewing industry
Working in a brewery can be a great starting point for a career in the brewing industry. As you gain experience and knowledge, you may have the opportunity to move into more senior roles or explore different areas of the industry.
Continuing education programs, such as those offered by the Siebel Institute or the Brewer’s Association, can also help you expand your knowledge of brewing and beer styles and demonstrate your commitment to the industry.
Conclusion
Working as a beertender at a brewery can be a fun and rewarding career choice for those who are passionate about craft beer and enjoy working with people. By following the tips and advice in this guide, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job in the brewing industry. Cheers to your future career in craft beer!