Assistant Brewer

Big Lick Brewing; Roanoke (VA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Big Lick Brewing in Roanoke, Virginia, is seeking an Assistant Brewer who will focus on packaging (kegging and canning) and beer transfers, while receiving training on our 15-barrel brewhouse and 2-barrel pilot system.

This hands-on role requires attention to detail, a collaborative attitude, and a willingness to learn; candidates with brewery packaging or cellar experience are preferred, and the ability to lift 55 lbs repeatedly is required.

Qualifications

• Experience in brewery packaging or cellar operations preferred.
• Must be able to lift 55+ lbs repeatedly and move full kegs.
• Flexible schedule including weekends or evenings.

Responsibilities

• Operate keg cleaning and filling equipment with attention to cleanliness and accuracy.
• Assist with canning line operations, including setup, operation, and breakdown.
• Perform beer transfers between tanks, brite tanks, and packaging lines while minimizing oxygen pickup and ensuring product quality.
• Maintain packaging logs and records of finished beer volumes.
• Perform routine cellar work, including dry hopping, carbonating, and yeast management.
• Execute proper CIP (clean-in-place) and SIP (sanitize-in-place) procedures for tanks and lines.
• Clean and sanitize hoses, fittings, draft lines, and brewing equipment.
• Learn and assist with wort production on both the 15-barrel brewhouse and 2-barrel pilot system.
• Keep production and packaging areas clean, organized, and safe.
• Follow all safety protocols and PPE requirements.
• Assist with raw material handling, inventory management, and restocking.

Skills

Brewing operations

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Willingness to learn

Job description

Position Overview:

This role is ideal for someone passionate about the brewing process and eager to grow within the craft beer industry. The Assistant Brewer will focus primarily on packaging (kegging and canning) and beer transfer operations, while receiving comprehensive training in brewhouse operations—including our 15-barrel brewhouse and 2-barrel pilot system. This position is hands‑on and requires strong attention to detail, a willingness to learn, and a collaborative attitude.

Key Responsibilities:

Packaging & Cellar Operations:

• Operate keg cleaning and filling equipment with attention to cleanliness and accuracy.
• Assist with canning line operations, including setup, operation, and breakdown.
• Perform beer transfers between tanks, brite tanks, and packaging lines while minimizing oxygen pickup and ensuring product quality.
• Maintain packaging logs and records of finished beer volumes.
• Perform routine cellar work, including dry hopping, carbonating, and yeast management.
• Execute proper CIP (clean-in-place) and SIP (sanitize-in-place) procedures for tanks and lines.
• Clean and sanitize hoses, fittings, draft lines, and brewing equipment.

Brewhouse Training & Support:

• Learn and assist with wort production on both the 15-barrel brewhouse and 2-barrel pilot system.

General Duties:

• Keep production and packaging areas clean, organized, and safe.
• Follow all safety protocols and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.
• Assist with raw material handling, inventory management, and restocking.

Qualifications:

• Prior experience in a brewery, packaging, or cellar operations preferred.
• Strong work ethic, positive attitude, and ability to work independently or as part of a team.
• Must be able to lift 55+ lbs repeatedly and maneuver full kegs.
• Flexible schedule, including availability on weekends or evenings as needed.

Preferred Skills:

• Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Forklift or pallet jack experience is a plus.
• Passion for craft beer and interest in brewing education or certification.