Scotch Whisky is a science. And there are countless examples of science-based roles and apprenticeships in the Scotch Whisky industry. Here is just a small selection of where scientists can get involved with in Scotch Whisky:
Raw material selection – your insight and decisions will shape grain selection, analysing the chemical composition in order to create unique or distinct flavour profiles.
Mashing and fermentation – you will be responsible for controlling the temperature, pH and enzyme activity. This will then influence the flavour, aroma and alcohol content of the whisky.
Distillation – you will have major influence and decision making over the design of distillation equipment, configuring it in order to separate impurities and unwanted by-products.
Maturation and aging – you will be responsible for controlling aging conditions of the whisky by influencing and managing temperature, humidity and the duration of maturation.
Quality control and process optimisation – by monitoring key parameters, you can introduce improvements that can reduce energy use, waste generation and environmental impact.
Packaging – you’ll help make decisions on the design, development and production of packaging, as well as optimising its transportation.
Mechanical engineering graduates are familiar with the design, development, installation, operation and maintenance of anything that has moving parts. This makes it a versatile and attractive qualification that has appeal across almost all industries. With a combination of skills in maths, science, technology, business and management, graduates can find themselves in a breadth of positions – this includes those within whisky distilleries.
What do mechanical engineers do?
A mechanical engineer will be responsible for designing, maintaining, and optimising mechanical systems. Through quick thinking, they are often turned to in emergency situations such as breakdowns and faults, using their problem solving techniques to ensure site downtime is kept to a minimum. They will be skilled in troubleshooting, and ensuring operations apply to quality and safety standards.
A vital role from start to finish
That’s why a mechanical engineer is an important role in any distillery. The whisky industry requires the skills and expertise of engineers to keep everything flowing, optimise operations and contribute to the future success of a distillery. The decisions made by a distillery’s engineers can be monumental and fundamental. Whether it’s day-to-day operations or major changes, there’s always a need for engineers as their role touches almost every stage of the process.
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Getting into the whisky industry
For mechanical engineer roles within a distillery, previous experience working in a distillery or similar industry is preferred, but not essential. Many of the skills required for the role will be achieved and demonstrated through a degree or similar role within a different industry, such as creativity, problem-solving, critical thinking and attention to detail. Distilleries will also welcome applicants with a degree in a related scientific field, a HNC in mechanical engineering or those who have completed an apprenticeship.
There are almost 150 distilleries currently operating across Scotland, so if you’re interested in finding your place within the industry, there are opportunities out there. Past years have also seen a wave of distillery launches from former engineers who are using their expertise to innovate and create unique offerings for whisky lovers.
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The benefits of working as a mechanical engineer in a distillery
Not only is the whisky industry an exciting opportunity for those who enjoy the spirit, it has a host of benefits in terms of your career and job satisfaction.
- The whisky industry offers long-term prospects with many engineers holding their position for a long period of time.
- No day is the same. Given the range of responsibilities and tasks that fall to an engineer, you’ll be able to enjoy varied days working in different areas of a distillery and at different stages of the process.
- You get to use a combination of tradition and manual skills, as well as precision engineering.
- If you enjoy whisky already, it’s an opportunity to turn an interest into a career.
- Distilleries are set in some of the most beautiful areas in the country making it a great workplace and way of life.
- There are always new challenges to tackle in your role as the industry develops and distilleries look for new ways to increase efficiency and sustainability.
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Mechanical engineering salary
Not only is the whisky industry an exciting opportunity for those who enjoy the spirit, it has a host of benefits in terms of your career and job satisfaction.
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