Master Distiller

Lock Search Group; Canada; Remote; CAD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking distillery as a Master Distiller, where your expertise will shape the future of premium spirits. In this pivotal role, you'll lead a talented team, oversee the entire production process, and drive innovation while maintaining the highest quality standards. This is a unique opportunity to influence a growing distillery and craft exceptional spirits that resonate with customers. If you have a passion for distilling and a desire to make a significant impact in the industry, this role is for you!

Qualifications

• Degree in relevant field preferred; practical experience may be considered.
• 4+ years in commercial distilling with production management experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead the production team and oversee all stages from raw material to bottling.
• Develop new products and ensure quality control throughout production.

Skills

Distillation expertise

Blending skills

Equipment maintenance

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Bilingualism (French and English)

Education

Degree in distilling, chemistry, biology, food science, or microbiology

Significant practical experience

Job description

Step into the spotlight as a Master Distiller and craft the future of premium spirits!

Company Overview:

Our client,Distillerie des Cantons de l’Est, is a distinguished craft distillery nestled in the picturesque region of the Eastern Township, Quebec, very close to the U.S. border. They pride themselves on producing exceptional, high-quality single malt whiskies and a range of other carefully crafted spirits. Their commitment to excellence in production and innovation has earned them recognition within the industry, and they are excited to expand their team with a dedicated and talented Master Distiller. If you’re passionate about the art of distilling and looking to be part of an evolving distillery, we want to hear from you!

Their exceptional land:

Spanning 25 hectares of active production and an additional 39 hectares on lease, they use a unique three-rotation system (Rye – Barley – Fallow) combined with organic fertilization to cultivate their crops. In just 5 years, these fields will yield raw materials of outstanding quality, propelling their spirits to new, exhilarating heights.

Please note that the company is open to applicants from both Canada, United States and abroad and is willing to offer a relocation package to the successful candidate.

Position Overview

As a Master Distiller at Distillerie des Cantons de l’Est, you will oversee the entire spirit production process, ensuring every step from raw material sourcing to the final bottling is executed with the utmost precision. This senior leadership role involves managing a dynamic team, driving product development, maintaining quality standards, and ensuring the maturation of our spirits meets the highest industry standards. You will also serve as the “face” of the distillery, representing us at public events, tastings, and media engagements.

Your role will be instrumental in shaping the future of our distillery. You will lead innovation, continuously improving our products while preserving our commitment to quality and craftsmanship. This is an opportunity to influence the direction of a growing distillery and to leave a lasting mark on the spirits industry.

Key Responsibilities

1. Team Leadership & Management – Lead and manage the production team, ensuring high standards and fostering a collaborative, safety-driven environment. Train and mentor staff across distilling tasks.
2. Production Oversight – Oversee all production stages from raw material selection to bottling, ensuring premium quality and optimal efficiency.
3. Product Development & Innovation – Develop new products and continuously improve production techniques. Collaborate with teams to create unique spirits and push innovation.
4. Quality Control & Assurance – Implement a quality assurance program and maintain a sampling system to monitor product quality. Collaborate with the scientific team to refine production processes.
5. Brand Promotion & Customer Engagement – Represent the distillery at industry events, tastings, and media engagements. Build relationships with customers and partners to promote the brand.
6. Process & Documentation Management – Maintain accurate production logs and develop long-term liquid plans. Ensure compliance with hygiene and food safety standards.
7. Training & Staff Development – Implement training programs to ensure staff are skilled in all aspects of distilling and quality control. Foster continuous learning and development.

Qualifications & Experience

1. Education – A degree in distilling, chemistry, biology, food science, microbiology, or related field is preferred. Significant practical experience may also be considered.
2. Work Experience – Minimum of 4 years in commercial distilling with hands-on experience in managing production lines and a proven ability to produce high-quality spirits. Experience in public relations is a plus.
3. Key Skills & Competencies – Expertise in distillation, blending, and equipment maintenance. Strong scientific understanding of distillation and aging processes. Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. Highly organized and detail-oriented. Bilingualism (French and English) is an asset.

Apply Now!

If you are a seasoned distiller with a passion for crafting high-quality spirits and a desire to play a pivotal role in the future of a growing distillery, we encourage you to apply. Send your resume to Patrick Parent at [e-mail].

Distillerie des Cantons de l’Est

Crafting Premium Spirits, Creating Timeless Moments!

Thank you in advance for your interest, only individuals deemed to have the skill set and experience to fit the role will be contacted.