Alcohol companies have a wide range of job opportunities for individuals looking to start or grow their careers in the industry. From the production side to marketing, sales, and distribution, the alcohol industry offers a diverse range of positions that cater to a variety of skill sets and interests. In this article, we will explore the different jobs available at alcohol companies and what each job entails.
Why Work in the Alcohol Industry
Getting a job in the alcohol industry can be an attractive option for many reasons, including:
Variety of Job Opportunities
The alcohol industry includes a wide range of job opportunities, including production, marketing, sales, promotion, distribution, hospitality, and more. This means there is a role for a diverse range of skills and interests.
Competitive Salary
The alcohol industry is known for offering competitive salaries and benefits packages, particularly for those with specialized skills or experience.
Creative and Innovative Industry
The industry is constantly evolving, with new products, flavors, and trends emerging all the time. This can provide an exciting and dynamic work environment, particularly for those who enjoy creativity and innovation.
Strong Industry Growth
The global alcohol industry has seen steady growth over the past decade and is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. This means there are likely to be increasing job opportunities available.
Passion for the Product
For many people, landing a job in the alcohol industry is a chance to work with a product they are passionate about. Whether it’s beer, wine, spirits, or other beverages, working in the industry can provide a sense of pride and satisfaction in producing or promoting a product that people enjoy.
Types of Jobs In the Alcohol Industry
Production Jobs
Production jobs in alcohol companies involve the process of creating alcoholic beverages. This includes everything from sourcing raw materials to bottling the final product. Here are some of the different types of production jobs in the alcohol industry:
Brewer
Average annual salary: $45,000
A brewer is responsible for making beer. This involves selecting ingredients, brewing the beer, and monitoring the fermentation process. Brewers need to have an in-depth understanding of the science behind brewing, as well as a keen sense of taste and smell to ensure that the final product is of high quality.
Distiller
Average annual salary: $36,000
Distillers are responsible for creating spirits like whiskey, gin, and vodka. They begin by fermenting a mash of ingredients, then distill the mixture to produce a high-proof spirit. Distillers need to have a strong understanding of chemistry and be able to operate complex distillation equipment.
Winemaker
Average annual salary: $64,00
Winemakers are responsible for producing wine. They start by selecting and harvesting grapes, then fermenting the juice to create wine. Winemakers need to have a strong understanding of the science behind fermentation, as well as a keen sense of taste and smell to ensure that the wine is of high quality.
Cellar Master
Average annual salary: $37,500
A cellar master is responsible for overseeing the storage and aging of wine or spirits. They ensure that the product is stored at the correct temperature and humidity, and that the aging process is managed correctly. Cellar masters need to have a strong understanding of the chemical reactions that occur during aging, as well as a keen sense of taste and smell to ensure that the final product is of high quality.
Marketing & Sales Jobs
Marketing and sales jobs in alcohol companies involve generating brand awareness, selling the product to on- and off-premise accounts, and promoting the product to consumers. This includes everything from designing packaging to creating advertising campaigns and leading events. Here are some of the different types of sales and marketing jobs in the alcohol industry:
Marketing Directors/Managers
Average annual salary for manager: $74,000
Average annual salary for senior manager: $140,000
Average annual salary for director: $163,000
Marketing directors and marketing managers are responsible for developing and implementing marketing strategies for alcohol products. They must be able to analyze market trends and consumer behavior to create effective marketing campaigns. Additionally, they must have experience with managing budgets and working with advertising agencies to create marketing materials.
Creative Director
Average annual salary: $142,000
A creative director is responsible for overseeing the design and creative direction of advertising campaigns, packaging, and other promotional materials. They work closely with the brand manager to ensure that the creative direction is aligned with the brand’s messaging and values. Creative directors need to have strong visual design skills, as well as the ability to manage a team of designers and copywriters.
Social Media Manager
Average annual salary: $52,000
A social media manager is responsible for managing a brand’s social media accounts, including creating content, responding to comments and messages, and analyzing data to improve engagement. Social media managers need to have a deep understanding of social media platforms, as well as strong communication and analytical skills.
Brand Manager
Average annual salary: $74,000
A brand manager is responsible for overseeing the marketing and promotion of a particular brand of alcohol. They work closely with the production team to ensure that the product is marketed in a way that reflects its unique qualities and appeals to the target market. Brand managers need to have strong communication skills, as well as a deep understanding of the target market.
Market Manager/Sales Representative
Average annual salary: $61,000
Market managers and field sales reps are responsible for promoting and selling a brand’s products to retailers and distributors. They work closely with the brand manager to ensure that the product is being promoted in a way that aligns with the brand’s messaging and values. Sales representatives need to have strong communication and negotiation skills, as well as a deep understanding of the industry and the target market.
Brand Ambassadors
Average annual salary: $42,000
Brand ambassadors are responsible for promoting a particular brand of alcoholic beverage. They work with sales representatives and retail outlets to create brand awareness and increase sales. Brand ambassadors must be knowledgeable about the product and able to communicate its features and benefits to customers.
Distribution Jobs
Distribution jobs involve the transportation of alcoholic beverages from producers and manufacturers to wholesalers, retailers, and ultimately to consumers. This includes everything from managing warehouses to driving delivery trucks. Here are some of the different types of distribution jobs in the alcohol industry.
Operations Managers
Average annual salary: $84,000
Operations managers are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the alcohol distribution company. They manage warehouse operations, transportation, customer service, and other aspects of the business. Operations managers must be able to manage a team of employees and ensure that the company is meeting its goals and objectives.
Warehouse Workers
Average annual salary: $42,000
Warehouse workers are responsible for receiving, storing, and shipping goods. In the alcohol distribution industry, they are in charge of handling the movement of alcohol products, including receiving shipments, storing the products in the warehouse, and preparing them for shipping to customers. They must be able to work in a fast-paced environment and have good organizational skills.
Purchasing Managers
Average annual salary: $58,000
Purchasing managers are responsible for purchasing alcohol products from suppliers and manufacturers. They must be able to negotiate pricing and terms with vendors and ensure that the products meet the company’s quality standards. Purchasing managers must also be able to manage inventory levels and ensure that the company has adequate stock of products.
Quality Control Inspectors
Average annual salary: $35,000
Quality control inspectors are responsible for ensuring that the alcohol products meet the company’s quality standards. They inspect the products for defects or other issues and work with the manufacturing or production teams to resolve any problems. Quality control inspectors must be knowledgeable about the production process and the quality standards for the products.
Distributor Representatives
Average annual salary: $44,000
Distributor reps work directly with retail outlets, bars, and restaurants to promote and sell alcohol products. They are responsible for building relationships with customers, introducing new products, and promoting existing products. Sales representatives must have excellent communication skills and be able to work independently.
Tips for Breaking into the Alcohol Industry
Breaking into the alcohol industry can be a challenging process, but with dedication, passion, and a willingness to learn, it is definitely possible. Here are some steps that can help you get started before you start applying for jobs in the alcohol industry.
1. Gain knowledge and expertise
Begin by researching the different types of alcohol and their production processes. Educate yourself on the legal regulations surrounding alcohol production, distribution, and sales. Consider enrolling in a course or obtaining a certification in alcohol management or mixology to gain more specialized knowledge.
2. Build a network
Attend events and tradeshows related to the alcohol industry to meet professionals and learn about new developments and trends. Drinks America, Craft Beverage Expo, Bar Convent Brooklyn, and ACSA are all great options. Reach out to people in the industry through social media, LinkedIn, or industry associations to establish connections.
3. Gain experience
Look for entry-level opportunities to gain experience in the industry. This can include working in a bar or restaurant, interning at a distillery, or assisting with events or promotions.
4. Stay informed
Keep up to date with industry news and developments. Read industry publications, attend seminars and webinars, and follow industry influencers on social media.
Overall, working in the alcohol industry can provide a challenging, exciting, and rewarding career for those with the right skills and interests. Although breaking into the alcohol industry may require hard work and persistence, with the right combination of knowledge, experience, and networking, you can achieve your goals.
FAQs on Jobs in the Alcohol Industry
How do I break into the alcohol industry?
You can break into the alcohol industry by gaining knowledge and expertise through research and courses, building a network by attending events and conferences, gaining experience in an entry-level position, and by staying informed on the latest industry news and trends.
Why work in the alcohol industry?
Working in the alcohol industry is an appealing option because it is a creative and dynamic industry, there are a wide range of job opportunities from production to sales and marketing, many companies offer competitive salaries, and it is an industry that is projected to continue growing steadily.
How many jobs does alcohol create?
The alcohol industry is a significant employer, but the exact number of jobs it creates varies depending on the country and the specific segment of the industry.
According to a report by the International Wine and Spirits Record (IWSR), the global alcohol industry employed approximately 3.3 million people directly in 2019. This number includes jobs in the production, distribution, and retail of alcoholic beverages, as well as related industries such as packaging and marketing.
In the United States, the alcohol industry is responsible for around 4 million jobs, according to a study by the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States. This includes jobs in distilleries, breweries, wineries, bars, restaurants, wholesalers, and retailers.
It’s worth noting that these numbers only account for direct employment and don’t include the additional jobs created in industries that rely on the alcohol industry, such as agriculture, transportation, and hospitality.
