The Brewer is charged with all things brewing, fermentation, and conditioning beer. From wort production, to cellaring tasks, to recipe development, to ensuring all SOPs are followed and improved upon, to training fellow team members - this position plays a vital role in Portage’s overall product experience. More than anything, we are looking for someone who understands and continues to further their knowledge of the brewing process, works hard to complete tasks on-time, collaborates well with others in the company, and strives to propel our product quality and vision forward.
OTHER WAYS TO APPLY:
Email your resume and a bit about yourself to tom@portagebeer.com and we’ll be in touch to schedule an interview.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Maintaining a brewing schedule of up to (10) brew days per month
Managing yeast quality assurance program, including cell counting, generation counts, pitch analysis, and order scheduling
Management of inventory and ordering process for all brewing supplies and materials
Cellar operations, including all dry hopping, adjuncting, carbing, and filtration tasks
Oversight and inspection of internal CIP cleaning to ensure safe fermentation conditions
Wood cellaring and bottling tasks as needed
Equipment maintenance of steam boiler, pumps, glycol chiller, tap dispensing system, keg washer, canning line, and forklifts
Production staff training as needed
Cleaning kegs, kegging beer, and canning
Beer training for taproom staff meetings in collaboration with Taproom Manager
Following and improving all production SOPs for brewhouse and cellar processes
Working smartly and safely, including proper use of personal protection equipment
Maintaining a clean, neat, and safe work area for team
Monitoring and improving processes in production operations
Sanitary assembly of brewing process parts and hoses
Safely preparing and using various cleaning and sanitation solutions to specifications
Performing maintenance tasks on pumps, tanks, and process equipment as needed
Occasional paid travel to beer tasting events, seminars, and production relevant events
Tours and presentations as needed in collaboration with Taproom Manager
Maintain accurate brewing records and inventory data to ensure effective production planning and compliance reporting
Collaboration between brewing, sales, and taproom teams to ensure goals are met
QUALIFICATIONS:
1-3 years of prior experience working in a brewery production environment required
1-3 years of relevant experience with home brewing or wine making preferred
1-3 years of management experience in a production environment preferred
1-3 of professional usage of Google Suite Products required
Special Engineering License to safely operate boiler required
Fundamental knowledge of the brewing process is required
Understanding of beer chemistry and biology
Great attitude and passion for craft beer
The ability to read, understand and follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s)
Ability to occasionally work at heights, as well as in confined spaces
A strong work ethic and ability to multitask
Able to problem solve and work autonomously
Good communication skills, including occasional public speaking at meetings or events
Access to a laptop and cell phone is required
Comfortable training on new equipment as needed
This position requires the ability to routinely and repeatedly lift up to 80 pounds and occasionally maneuver up to 170 pounds via pallet jack
Work within QA/QC process to understand and flag off-flavors to Head Brewer
POSITION TYPE:
This is a non-exempt hourly position
Daily and weekly hours are flexible
COMPENSATION + BENEFITS:
Compensation commensurate with experience
Exceptional benefits package including healthcare reimbursement (ICHRA), Simple IRA, time off, free tap beer, employee discounts, and more
Required PPE is included, including work boots, gloves, and eye protection
Paid travel and hotel accommodations when approved for traveling to events
ALCOHOL RESPONSIBILITY:
The candidate must fully understand that they are a representative of not only Portage Brewing Company but of the craft beer beverage industry, and all employees are to conduct themselves within the limits of the law and with concern to the education of responsible consumption. This includes alcohol consumed during working hours, or when representing the company at trade shows, festivals or industry events. Any poor reflection or legal matters that arise due to poor judgment may be dealt with by means of disciplinary action or termination.
DISCLAIMERS:
This job description is only a summary of the typical functions of the job, not an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all possible job responsibilities, tasks and duties
Employment offer subject to background check
Portage Brewing Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer