Cooper

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 temporary workers.