Brewmaster

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 540,000 - 720,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Product discounts

Professional development

Collaborative team environment

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch seeks a Brewmaster to lead brewing operations at a craft brewery in Paarl, directing beer development, production, and quality control.

You will oversee all brewing stages, manage raw materials, ensure safety, and collaborate with marketing for launches. A strong palate, lab skills, and leadership are essential for driving innovation and product excellence.

Qualifications

• Formal education in Brewing Science, Fermentation Technology, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of professional brewing experience, preferably in a craft brewery setting.
• In-depth understanding of brewing ingredients, processes, yeast management, and quality control techniques.
• Proficiency with brewing software and equipment.
• Strong sensory evaluation skills and an impeccable palate.
• Excellent problem‑solving abilities and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and scale new beer recipes, ensuring consistency and quality from pilot batch to full production.
• Manage all aspects of the brewing process, including mashing, boiling, fermentation, maturation, filtration, and packaging.
• Implement and maintain rigorous quality control standards, including sensory analysis and laboratory testing.
• Oversee brewery operations, ensuring efficient workflow, adherence to safety regulations, and proper maintenance of brewing equipment.
• Manage inventory of raw materials (malt, hops, yeast, etc.) and finished goods.
• Collaborate with the marketing and sales teams to develop product launch strategies and promotional materials.

Skills

Brewing knowledge

Quality control

Laboratory testing

Sensory evaluation

Problem solving

Continuous improvement

Education

Brewing Science degree

Fermentation Technology degree

Chemistry degree

Tools

Brewing software

Brewing equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled and passionate Brewmaster to lead the brewing operations at their craft brewery located in the heart of the winelands, Paarl . This is a hands‑on role where you will be responsible for the creative development, production, and quality control of all beers. You will leverage your extensive knowledge of brewing science, fermentation, and ingredients to craft exceptional and innovative brews that align with the brewery's brand and appeal to discerning craft beer enthusiasts. This position offers a unique opportunity to influence the direction of a growing brewery and contribute to the vibrant South African craft beer scene.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and scale new beer recipes, ensuring consistency and quality from pilot batch to full production.
• Manage all aspects of the brewing process, including mashing, boiling, fermentation, maturation, filtration, and packaging.
• Implement and maintain rigorous quality control standards, including sensory analysis and laboratory testing.
• Oversee brewery operations, ensuring efficient workflow, adherence to safety regulations, and proper maintenance of brewing equipment.
• Manage inventory of raw materials (malt, hops, yeast, etc.) and finished goods.
• Collaborate with the marketing and sales teams to develop product launch strategies and promotional materials.

Requirements

• Formal education in Brewing Science, Fermentation Technology, Chemistry, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of professional brewing experience, preferably in a craft brewery setting.
• In-depth understanding of brewing ingredients, processes, yeast management, and quality control techniques.
• Proficiency with brewing software and equipment.
• Strong sensory evaluation skills and an impeccable palate.
• Excellent problem‑solving abilities and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with performance‑based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement plan.
• Generous supply of brewery products and discounts.
• Opportunities for professional development, including attending brewing conferences and workshops.
• A creative and collaborative work environment within a passionate team.