Lab Tech at 23 Bottles of Beer, LLC in Windsor, California

Job Description:

SUMMARY
This position is responsible for participating in a lab program which seeks to maintain, improve, and always protect the Russian River brand, with the highest commitment to our quality standards.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The following reflects managements definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time due to business needs or other reasons.
Accurately collects and analyzes in-process and finished products (sample analysis); appropriately escalates out of specification results/trends and initiates/suggests corrective actionMaintains product quality through adherence to good manufacturing practices, product specifications, and quality procedures; completes tasks thoroughly and accurately to ensure compliance with quality standardsAbility to effectively prioritize, analyze, trouble-shoot, and solve problems in an efficient and timely mannerMaintains a clean and organized work spaceAppropriately handles beers in our sour program and follows cleaning protocolsParticipates in production (brewing & packaging) processes, delivering superior internal customer service Identifies and communicates product that does not meet quality standards and effectively isolates the out of specification productWrites, updates, and maintains Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the labMaintains and operates standard brewing laboratory equipment by following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)Perform packaging quality checks, delivers results when out of specification, and reacts properly to out of spec situationsAssists in maintaining lab sample inventory and dispersion of samples.Perform cell counts for samples at different processes points across the two breweriesManages yeast data and calculates & delivers pitch volumes in a timely manner Performs acid titrationsAppropriately alerts manager on inventory of lab suppliesPerforms analytical analysis on product samples including BUs, FAN, Turbidity, SRMManages regular cell counts & data collection on yeast propagation Utilizes and operate all current and future lab equipment to include: micropipettes, microscope or cellometer, PCR, gas chromatograph, Alcolyzer, densitometer, CO2/O2 meters, TPO meter, UV/Vis Spectrophotometer, Shaker tables, pH Meter, laboratory centrifuge, Vortexer, laminar flow hood, Heating block, Cell disrupter, Autoclave, Cleaning agents, sanitizing agents, microbiological media, organic solvents, corrosive acids and bases, and other hazardous laboratory chemicals, including some carcinogens.Performs microbiological testing of beer throughout the process and accurately records results in a timely mannerWillingness to upstart or work on continuing projects outside of regular testingOperate dissolved oxygen and total package oxygen meters reading trace oxygen levelsAbility and willingness to maintain flexible work schedules, as weekends and evenings are necessaryAll other duties as assigned
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Operate and/or learn any other laboratory equipment not listed or purchased in the futurePrinciples and processes for providing excellent customer service and work quality; internal and external Commitment to excellence and high standards Basic understanding of the brewing process and microbiology a plusAbility to use standard office equipment, including MS Word and Excel, Obeer is a plus
QUALIFICATIONS
Commitment to excellence and high standards Creative, flexible, and innovative team player Passion, enthusiasm, focus, creativity, and a positive outlook
REQUIREMENTS
Must be at least 21 years of age Bachelors degree in microbiology, biology, chemistry, or related field is required Minimum of 2 years in a previous lab tech position, ideally in craft beer Must be able to speak, read, write, and understand the primary language(s) used in the workplace Professional appearance and demeanor
PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORKING CONDITIONS
In the laboratory environment of beer production, employees encounter specific physical demands and working conditions, including:
Manual labor: Employees are occasionally involved in manual labor tasks such as lifting bags of grains, moving heavy equipment, and transferring large volumes of liquid. This requires physical strength, proper lifting techniques, and the ability to occasionally lift or carry up to 60 pounds and manipulate and/or move up to 155 pounds.
Precision and attention to detail: Lab positions require meticulous attention to detail when conducting tests, recording data, and analyzing results to ensure product quality and consistency.
Fine motor skills: Lab technicians must possess precise motor skills for pipetting, measuring samples, and performing delicate manipulations during testing procedures.
Sitting and standing: Lab work involves a combination of sitting at lab benches for extended periods while performing tests and standing to access equipment or conduct experiments, requiring both sedentary and active periods.
Use of laboratory equipment: Employees use a variety of specialized laboratory equipment such as spectrophotometers, pH meters, microscopes, and autoclaves, requiring proficiency in operating and maintaining these instruments.
Handling chemicals and biological materials: Lab technicians work with various chemicals, reagents, and biological materials during testing procedures, necessitating adherence to safety protocols and proper handling techniques.
Exposure to fumes and hazardous substances: Some lab procedures involve the use of volatile chemicals or biological agents, requiring proper ventilation and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and lab coats.
Quality control and assurance: Lab technicians are responsible for conducting quality control tests to ensure beer products meet specifications for flavor, consistency, and purity, requiring a keen understanding of brewing processes and sensory evaluation techniques.
Data analysis and interpretation: Lab personnel analyze test results, interpret data, and communicate findings to production staff to inform decision-making and process improvements.
Collaboration and communication: Lab employees work closely with brewing and production teams to troubleshoot issues, implement quality control measures, and maintain product standards, necessitating effective communication skills and teamwork.
Shift work and varied environments: Lab positions often require employees to work in various areas of the brewery, including the lab, warehouse, packaging, and sometimes confined spaces, depending on the testing requirements and production needs.
Confined space entry: Some lab tasks may involve working in confined spaces such as tanks or vessels for equipment maintenance or inspection, requiring adherence to safety protocols and proper training.
In summary, lab positions require a combination of technical expertise, precision, and collaboration to ensure the quality and consistency of beer products. Employees must be proficient in laboratory techniques, adhere to safety protocols, and communicate effectively with colleagues while navigating different areas of the brewery, including confined spaces, to support the brewing process and maintain product integrity.