Cellar Operator

Craftsmith Beverage; Naperville (IL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Career growth opportunities

Skill-building in fermentation science

Collaborative work environment

Job summary

Craftsmith Beverage in Naperville, Illinois is looking for a Cellar Operator to manage liquid processing and fermentation, ensuring beverages meet high quality standards. This role involves executing daily operations, including fermentation management and sanitation.

The ideal candidate has 2+ years of experience in beverage production and mechanical aptitude. Strong detail orientation and communication skills are essential. Join a team environment where your work will directly impact beverage quality.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in beverage production (cider, beer, wine, or spirits preferred).
• Familiarity with pumps, valves, tanks, and sanitation processes.
• Ability to lift 55 lbs and maneuver full kegs (165 lbs).
• Willingness to work flexible hours including weekends.

Responsibilities

• Execute daily cellar operations including fermentation management and transfers.
• Perform sanitation processes for equipment and locations.
• Monitor fermentation metrics to ensure product quality.
• Assist in blending and packaging preparation.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Tools

Forklift

Job description

About the Role

The Cellar Operator is the backbone of our liquid processing and fermentation, ensuring our beverages meet the highest quality standards before they reach the packaging line. This role owns the daily cellar operations, from meticulous fermentation management and product transfers to rigorous sanitation (CIP) procedures. Operators at Craftsmith ensure smooth transitions between process stages, maintain strict quality metrics, and drive continuous improvement across the production floor.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute daily cellar operations, including fermentation management, transfers, clarification, carbonation, and filtration.
• Perform CIP (Clean-in-Place) and sanitation processes for tanks, hoses, pumps, and other equipment.
• Monitor and record fermentation metrics (gravity, pH, temperature) to ensure optimal product quality.
• Assist in blending and packaging preparation for beverage production.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in accordance with company and regulatory standards.
• Work closely with the production, packaging, and quality teams to ensure smooth transitions between process stages.
• Troubleshoot basic equipment issues and perform routine preventative maintenance as needed.
• Assist in the implementation and refinement of SOPs to support consistency and operational efficiency.
• Assist with fruit processing, barrel work, batching and weighing of ingredients for contract manufacturing customers, and special projects.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience working in a beverage production facility (cider, beer, wine, or spirits preferred).
• Strong mechanical aptitude and familiarity with pumps, valves, tanks, and related equipment.
• Ability to follow detailed SOPs and quality standards with minimal supervision.
• Strong commitment to cleanliness, sanitation, and attention to detail.
• Ability to repeatedly lift 55 lbs and maneuver full kegs (165 lbs) occasionally.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, or weekends as needed.
• A positive attitude, good communication skills, and a collaborative spirit are a must.

Preferred (Optional)

• Forklift experience or certification (training can be provided).

Your Role & Growth

At Craftsmith, Cellar Operators are hands‑on contributors, problem‑solvers, and collaborators whose meticulous work directly dictates the final flavor and quality of our products.

Here’s what you’ll gain:

• Career growth: Deepen your expertise in fermentation science and fluid management, mastering complex cellar operations to become an invaluable technical asset to the production team.
• Skill‑building: Get hands‑on with continuous improvement, SOP writing, and new processing techniques that shape how our beverages are crafted.
• Team environment: Join a collaborative crew where your input matters and your daily dedication directly impacts the quality, consistency, and success of every batch we produce.