Job Title: Whisky Cooper
Role Overview
Our client is a prestigious brand within the global drinks industry. They have a unique opportunity for an experienced Cooper.
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
Essential:
Time-served cooper, or can 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 min of 6 months, but maybe reviewed and extended. Hours will be 37 per week, over a dayshift pattern, Monday to Friday. Hourly rate £22 per hour.
Total Recruitment Group offers the services of an employment agency for permanent placements and an employment business for te