Cellar technician
Drinks dispense technician, cellar service engineer, beer quality technician
Cellar technicians install and maintain drinks systems in places like pubs, bars, hotels and restaurants.
Average salary (a year)
£20000
Starter
£30000
Experienced
Typical hours (a week)
42.0 to 44.0 hours
a week
Work Hours
between 8am and 6pm
on a rota
How to become
Explore the different ways to get into this role
You can get into this job through:a college course; an apprenticeship; working towards this role; applying directly; specialist courses run by professional bodies
College
You could do a college course then try to find a trainee job with a drinks company. Courses inlcude
Level 2 Diploma in Engineering, Level 2 Diploma in Installing and Maintaining Refrigeration Systems, Level 2 Diploma in Plumbing
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
  • 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
More Information
equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
funding advice|https://www.gov.uk/further-education-courses/financial-help
search for courses|/find-a-course
Apprenticeship
You may be able to do a drinks dispense technician advanced apprenticeship.
This usually takes about 18 months to complete as a mix of learning on the job and study.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
  • 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
More Information
equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
guide to apprenticeships|https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide
Work
It may be possible to get into this job by working behind a bar and in a bar cellar.
Once you're working, your employer may give you the chance to take a cellar management course.
Direct Application
You can apply directly to employers and do training while you work.
It could be an advantage if you've got experience in mechanical engineering, refrigeration, plumbing or electrical work.
Other Routes
You could take the Level 2 National Certificate for Drinks Dispense course, offered by The Brewing, Food and Beverage Industry Suppliers Association.
More Information
Professional And Industry Bodies
You could join the British Institute of Innkeeping for training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
What it takes
Find out what skills you’ll use in this role
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
    Knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
    The ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
    The ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
    The ability to work on your own
    To be thorough and pay attention to detail
    Observation and recording skills
    The ability to work well with others
    The ability to work well with your hands
Digital Skills Level
to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Related Restrictions
have a good level of fitness
have a full driving licence
What you will do
Discover the day-to-day tasks you’ll do in this role
Day to day tasks
In your day-to-day duties you may
order parts, fit drinks systems into a customer's premises, check temperature and pressure of drink products, find and fix faults, train bar staff on how to use new equipment, promote new products to customers, set up temporary bars for special events, like festivals, keep records of completed work
Working environment
You could work in a pub or bar or visit sites.
Your working environment may be cramped and you'll travel often.
Career Path & Progression
Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities
You could become a supervisor, manager, or move into equipment services and sales.
Job profile data provided by The National Careers Service.