Quality Assurance Technician

Dreaming big is in our DNA. It's who we are as a company. It's our culture. It's our heritage. And more than ever, it's our future. A future where we're always looking forward. Always serving up new ways to meet life's moments. A future where we keep dreaming bigger. We look for people with passion, talent, and curiosity, and provide them with the teammates, resources and opportunities to unleash their full potential. The power we create together - when we combine your strengths with ours - is unstoppable. Are you ready to join a team that dreams as big as you do?
HOURLY RATE: $23/hr.
SCHEDULE:

• 2nd shift: 12:00pm-8:30pm

In the spring the schedule will revert to 2:00pm - 10:30pm
Shift Differential:

• 12:00pm-8:30pm = +$2/hr.

OUR MISSION:
At Wicked Weed Portsmouth, we Craft for Better to create moments that unite people and enrich communities. We strive continuously to create a safe and inclusive workplace while supporting our communities and reducing our environmental impact. We celebrate unique perspectives and experiences that everyone brings, fostering a culture where employees are valued and empowered.
ROLE SUMMARY:
As an important member of the Wicked Weed Brewing Team, the QA/QC Lab Technician position helps maintain and exceed the high-quality standards we set for our beer.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Safety First. Must adhere to all PPE policies, hold others accountable, and perform work consistently with a safety focused mindset.
• Quality Always. Must always prioritize quality over quantity.
• Follow and develop SOPs and reaction plans to ensure consistent results

• Maintain a clean and organized lab environment through routing sanitation and 5S principles
• Take ownership of laboratory equipment: cleaning, calibration, preventative maintenance, troubleshooting
• Possess the ability to work independently
• Enter data and analyze using digital systems such as Excel, Smartsheet, SharePoint, etc.
• Collect and analyze samples throughout brewing and packaging processes for microbiological, chemical, physical, and sensory properties
• Collect and analyze raw materials to determine their fit for use
• Basic computer skills including using the internet and using MS Office software.
• Love of craft beer and a desire to see the best product leave the brewery every time.
• Clearly communicate with lab and production peers, as well as management, to efficiently produce products that adhere to our quality standards
• Manage inventory of lab supplies and order as needed
• Block finished goods per when they do not meet quality standards, and perform additional testing to determine compliance
• Perform computer-based work to fulfill brewery and department responsibilities, including writing SOPs, updating digital files, computer-based learning, etc.
• Assist with microbiology as needed with sample collection, prep, and analysis, including both traditional microbiological techniques as well as modern, rapid testing
• Assist with wastewater duties as needed with sample collection, prep, and analysis
• Participate in brewery-wide and laboratory specific safety, quality, engagement, and efficiency initiatives
• Learn and expand knowledge through training and research to help solve complex issues
• Collaborate to continuously improve processes, with a focus on the quality of our products
• Flexibility to cover other quality duties as needed
• Complete weekend duty on a rotating basis
• Additional duties may be assigned as necessary

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Fermentation Science, Food Science, or other related programs and/or 2 years previous laboratory experience in food/beverage industry.
• Previous laboratory experience in food/beverage industry.
• Previous work in a brewery is a plus
• Quality and/or Brewing certifications are a plus: IBD, MBAA, Cicerone, HACCP, SQF, etc.
• Strong verbal communication, writing skills, and experience with the Microsoft Office suite, especially Excel.
• The ability to complete work in a timely manner in a fast-paced environment while following all safety protocols is a must. Work will need to be completed around active buildings with forklift traffic, high heat/humidity, and chemicals (like highly alkaline or acidic solutions).
• Ability to handle heavy objects safely and with proper body mechanics - Lift and move objects weighing up to 35 lbs. and occasionally maneuver objects weighing up to 70 lbs.
• Ability to be on your feet for long periods of time standing and/or walking. Walking surfaces may be wet and/or slippery.
• Ability to frequently reach with hands and arms; handle or feel objects, tools, or controls.

BENEFITS:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, and Life insurance
• 401k matching up to 6%
• Beer every pay day
• Shift beer after work
• Employee Discounts
• Paid vacation and sick time off
• Quarterly Bonuses