QA/QC Lab Technician

Clipper City Brewing, dba Heavy Seas Beer; Baltimore (MD); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Clipper City Brewing, dba Heavy Seas Beer is seeking a QA/QC Lab Technician to support daily analytical testing and quality checks. You will collect samples, perform chemical/physical analyses, and participate in sensory panels to ensure product quality.

You will execute microbiological assays, maintain QC data and contribute to packaging quality control, working closely with brewery staff to address quality issues and improve processes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in the biological or physical sciences is required.
• Experience in a laboratory setting and familiarity with brewing, beer production or beer packaging is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Daily sample collection including aseptic sampling for microbiological analysis.
• Chemical and physical analysis of in-process and finished product, including ABV, Extract, pH, BU, Color, VDK.
• Package quality control including dissolved O2, carbonation, fill level, crown crimp, can seam integrity, keg testing.
• Sensory sample collection and participation in daily sensory panel organization.
• Sensory analysis of off flavors in beer.
• Daily data entry and maintenance of QC spreadsheets including record keeping, trending, and data analysis.
• Performing PCR analysis and interpreting results.
• Performing transmitted light microscopy of yeast and other samples.
• Preparing microbiological media, executing microbiological assays and interpreting the results.
• Assist with maintenance of laboratory equipment and maintaining a clean lab.
• Ad hoc projects for the quality department.

Skills

Attention to detail

Time management

Verbal and written communication

Teamwork

Initiative

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in biological or physical sciences

Tools

Google Sheets

Google Drive

Job description

Job SummaryThe QA/QC Lab Technician will be responsible for helping with tasks to execute quality standards. He/she will work under the supervision of the QA/QC Team Leader to perform day-to-day analytical testing and quality checks to support the efficiency of the department. Duties may vary as necessary.Position RequirementsIncluding, but not limited to:Daily sample collection including aseptic sampling for microbiological analysisChemical and physical analysis of in-process and finished product, including ABV, Extract, pH, BU, Color, VDKPackage quality control, including dissolved O2, carbonation, fill level, crown crimp, can seam integrity, keg testing, and other packaging standardsSensory sample collection and participation in daily sensory panel organizationSensory analysis of off flavors in beerCommunicating with brewery personnel and management regarding quality issues Daily data entry and maintenance of QC spreadsheets including record keeping, trending, and data analysisPerforming PCR analysis and interpreting resultsPerforming and interpreting transmitted light microscopy of yeast and other samplesPreparing microbiological media, executing microbiological assays and interpreting the resultsAssist with the maintenance of laboratory equipmentAssist with maintaining a professional and clean labWork on ad hoc projects as needed on behalf of the quality departmentEducation and ExperienceEducation: Bachelor’s Degree in the biological or physical sciencesExperience: Prior laboratory experience beyond classroom instruction and an understanding of brewing, beer production and beer packaging would be an assetSkillsOrganized approach to time managementAttention to detail with the ability to generate results that are accurate and preciseExcellent verbal and written communicationProficiency with Google Sheets and Google DriveOptimistic, self-motivated, positive attitude Ability to work as a part of a teamAbility to take initiative, act promptly and be proactiveAppreciation of quality beer!Physical/Working ConditionsAbility to lift up to 50lbsAbility to sit at a desk for extended periods of time, as well as the ability to stand, move with agility and climb laddersWork environment has a moderate to loud noise level (machinery noise typically found in a manufacturing and packaging work space)Work environment can include areas that are wet and non-temperature controlledPersonal protective equipment, including nitrile gloves, safety glasses, safety toe footwear and face coveringAdherence to safety procedures