Job Title: Whisky Cooper
Our client is a prestigious brand within the global drinks industry. They have a unique opportunity for an experienced cooper.
Role Overview
This person is responsible for the construction, repair, maintenance, and inspection of wooden casks used in the maturation of whisky. This role is critical to ensuring the quality, longevity, and character of whisky, as casks have a significant influence on flavour development during aging.
Key Responsibilities
* Assemble, repair, and refurbish oak whisky casks (including barrels, hogsheads, butts, and puncheons)
* De-rivet, re-rivet, shave, re-char, toast, and re-raise damaged or worn casks
* Inspect casks for leaks, structural integrity, and suitability for filling
* Replace hoops, heads, or staves as required
* Prepare casks for filling, storage, or transport
* Maintain accurate records of cask condition and repair work
* Operate cooperage tools and machinery safely (e.g. croze, jointer, hoop drivers)
* Work closely with warehouse and production teams to meet operational schedules
* Ensure all work meets quality standards and regulatory requirements
* Comply with health, safety, and environmental regulations at all times
Skills & Competencies
* Strong practical woodworking and hand‑tool skills
* Excellent attention to detail and craftsmanship
* Good understanding of oak, cask construction, and maturation processes
* Physical stamina and manual dexterity
* Ability to work independently and as part of a team
* Strong problem‑solving skills
* Commitment to quality, safety, and consistency
Qualifications & Experience
* Time‑served cooper, or demonstrable experience in cooperage/cask repair
* Understanding of whisky maturation and cask influence
* Experience working in a whisky distillery or bonded warehouse
* Knowledge of different cask types (ex‑bourbon, sherry, wine, etc.)
Working Conditions
* Manual, physically demanding work
* Work in warehouses or cooperage environments (often noisy or dusty)
* May involve lifting heavy casks and working with fire/heat during charring
Why This Role Matters
The cooper plays a vital role in preserving the quality and consistency of whisky. Well‑maintained casks directly influence flavour, aroma, and maturation, making this a highly respected and essential craft within the whisky industry.
This role is due to commence in the next 2 weeks. The contract is on a temporary basis expected to last a minimum of 6 months, but may be reviewed and extended. Hours will be 37 per week, over a dayshift pattern, Monday to Friday. Hourly rate £22 per hour.
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