Quality Specialist I

Description:

Maine Beer Company is dedicated to producing the best beer possible, and we are looking for someone to join our quality team as a Quality Specialist I! First and foremost, the candidate must have a positive attitude and work well with others as part of a brewery team. This person will conduct daily lab procedures, testing and routine QA/QC under the supervision of the Lab Manager. They will also assist in conducting sensory panels under the supervision of the Sensory Manager. Position is full timeand based in Freeport, Maine. Full-time employees receive a benefits package including but not limited to fully-paid health insurance, short-term disability and life insurance; at least 3 weeks paid vacation; 401k and profit sharing; dental and vision insurance; and of course free beer!

Duties and Responsibilities

• Daily aseptic microbiological sampling and analysis
• Preparation of inoculation media for microbiological plating and monitoring
• Membrane filtration of brewing water, packaged product, etc.
• Yeast management and maintenance including measurement of cell counts, viability, vitality, washing, etc.
• Run daily qPCR analysis of yeast, fermenting samples and packaged product
• Use a Cellometer to perform yeast cell counts and viability checks on packaged product as well as routine fermenting beer counts
• Daily forced fermentations
• Track CO2, ABV, and gravities of the packaged beer library
• Use an Anton Paar Density Meter / Alcolyzer for gravity and alcohol determinations
• Use a UV/Vis spectrophotometer to perform IBU and color testing on packaged product as well as other applications (VDK)
• Routine calibration and maintenance of laboratory and brewing instruments
• Record keeping and data logging
• Maintain a neat and tidy laboratory and keep a professional work environment
• Assist Sensory Manager with daily panel schedule, trainings, and panel set up / break down
• Prepare sensory samples
• Effectively communicate with the Sensory Manager and Lab Manager

Requirements:

• Positive attitude and ability to work well with a team
• A bachelor’s degree in biology, food science, chemistry or related field strongly preferred
• 1+ year experience in a production laboratory (brewing lab, an asset)
• Familiarity with brewing microbiology and brewing process
• Ability to follow established SOPs and work safely within a laboratory environment
• Excellent organizational skills and communication
• Great attention to detail