At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the distillation process and ensure top-notch spirit quality.
- Company: Cairn & Copper, a compact Scottish distillery with a focus on grain provenance.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time position, and a chance to shape the future of distilling.
- Other info: Opportunity to mentor assistant distillers and grow within the industry.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of innovative distilling in a vibrant Edinburgh setting.
- Qualifications: Hands-on distilling experience and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 45360 - 55440 £ per year.
About The Distillery
Cairn & Copper operates a compact Scottish distillery focused on grain provenance, careful fermentation, and transparent production.
Location: Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Type: Full Time
Salary: $72,000 — $94,000 / year
Apply by: Sep 15, 2026
What you will lead:
- You will oversee production planning, spirit quality, cask strategy, safety, and the development of two assistant distillers.
Experience:
- Hands-on distilling and production leadership.
- Strong sensory evaluation and quality systems.
- Comfort explaining technical choices to non-technical teams.
Head Distiller employer: LQRS
Cairn & Copper is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead a dedicated team in the heart of Edinburgh's vibrant distilling scene. With a strong focus on employee development and a culture that values craftsmanship and innovation, you will thrive in an environment that encourages growth and creativity. Enjoy competitive salaries and the chance to make a meaningful impact in a company committed to quality and transparency in every aspect of production.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Distiller
✨Join Food Science Communities
Get involved in food science forums and communities, both online and offline. Platforms like LinkedIn Groups or Reddit can be goldmines for job leads and valuable insights. Plus, you’ll connect with other food enthusiasts who might even point you towards openings at companies like LQRS.
✨Attend Industry Conferences and Workshops
Check out exhibitions and workshops in the food science sector. Events like the International Congress on Food Technology are not just knowledge hubs, but also great networking opportunities. You never know who you might bump into – perhaps a hiring manager from LQRS!
✨Show Off Your Passion for Food Tech
Start a blog or social media channel showcasing innovative food science projects or trends. This not only showcases your expertise but also raises your visibility in the field. When you apply for a role at companies like LQRS, they’ll see you’re proactive and truly passionate about food technology.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you're fresh out of uni, make use of your career services! They often have exclusive job boards and connections with companies looking for graduates. Don't forget to mention your interest in roles like those at LQRS, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Distiller
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at LQRS, make sure to highlight any relevant projects or research you've worked on. Whether it’s a dissertation, a lab experiment, or a product development idea, detail these experiences to demonstrate your hands-on skills in the field—employers love to see practical applications of your knowledge!
Highlight Technical Skills:In the food science and technology industry, technical skills are key. Be sure to list any specific skills you have related to food safety, quality control, or food processing technologies on your CV. Also, mention any software or analytical tools you’re proficient in, as this shows you're ready to hit the ground running at LQRS.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:As this is a full-time position, your cover letter should convey not just why you want the job, but also how you fit into the company's vision. Talk about your passion for food science and how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to LQRS. Make it personal and compelling!
Include Certifications:If you have any certifications related to food science, safety, or technology, be sure to mention them. These can really set you apart from other candidates! List them prominently on your CV and discuss how they relate to the role at LQRS. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at LQRS
✨Know Your Lab Tech!
Given that you’re diving into food science and technology, brush up on the specific technologies and lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarising yourself with tools like gas chromatography or texture analyzers will show that you’re serious about the technical side of things.
✨Show Off Your Project Experience
Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've undertaken in food science. Whether it’s developing a new recipe, conducting taste tests, or analysing nutritional content, having tangible examples can really show off your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Emphasise Your Soft Skills
Don't underestimate the importance of teamwork and communication in food science roles. Be ready to highlight instances where you’ve effectively collaborated with others or communicated complex scientific ideas clearly. This can make a huge difference in landing that full-time gig!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Make sure you’re clued up about the latest trends in food science and technology — think sustainability, food safety, and innovative processing techniques. Discussing these topics during your interview can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field and how you can contribute to LQRS’s mission.
