Lab and Sensory Technician

Position: Lab and Sensory Technician I
JOB SUMMARY:

Half Acre Beer Co. is seeking a qualified individual to support daily production sampling and the sensory program within the Half Acre Quality Department. The Laboratory and Sensory Technician, 1, performs routine microbiological, molecular, chemical, and sensory-support activities; maintains accurate records; and promptly escalates unusual or out-of-specification results to the more senior Laboratory and Sensory Technician and Quality Manager. This position reports to the Quality Manager and works under the day-to-day technical guidance of the more senior Laboratory and Sensory Technician.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

Monitors day-to-day levels of lab reagents, aliquots, media, and consumables; communicates replenishment needs to the Lead Laboratory and Sensory Technician Cleans and sanitizes labware and surfaces daily to uphold a clean and organized lab environment

Prepares culture media and pours plates/ aliquots tubes

Aseptically collects samples and plates for microbiological analysis; records observations and escalates unusual growth or morphology for review

Performs routine yeast cell counts and viability testing; tracks and reports yeast lineage and slurry history

Collects samples for microbial enrichment and performs qPCR testing; records and reports results and escalates unexpected findings

Determines routine samples due according to the established schedule; collects daily fermentation and microbiological samples from tanks when assigned; conducts routine quality checks including extract, pH, and temperature; and records results on production records

Performs spectrophotometric-based assays, including sample prep for organic chemistry analysis

Performs routine testing supporting BBT and packaged-goods release; promptly escalates results that do not meet specification before release or disposition

Receives, organizes, stages, retrieves, and archives packaged product samples for sensory evaluation and retention

Assists with sensory-session setup and administration, including staging glassware and samples and entering sessions or results in Draught Lab as assigned

Maintains sensory stations, including glassware, samples, and the appropriate testing environment

Assists with raw-material and hop-lot sensory evaluations as assigned

Enters laboratory, fermentation, packaging, and sensory data into appropriate systems and records; identifies and escalates unusual or out-of-specification values

Performs work according to current Standard Operating Procedures and participates in SOP training and review as assigned

Performs routine instrument cleaning and preventive-maintenance tasks according to established schedules; reports equipment issues promptly to Lead Laboratory and Sensory Technician Performs general lab maintenance and cleaning as outlined in the Lab Upkeep Checklist Supports quality investigations and improvement projects by performing assigned testing, sampling, and documentation

Supports cross-training and demonstrations of routine lab functions as assigned REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES:

First, have a constant commitment to safety and quality

Be a conscientious person, keeping in mind the needs of others as well as ownHold self accountable for maintaining a clean and organized work environment

Work efficiently and collaboratively within a shared Quality Laboratory workflow

Be detail-oriented and thorough in all laboratory work and documentation

Perform aseptic technique regularly and effectively

Maintain a clean, safe, and well-functioning lab, mindful of GLP requirements

Organize a large amount of samples and provide clear and timely resultsPREFERRED

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

A 4-year college degree in microbiology, biochemistry, chemistry, molecular biology, or food science, OR, at least one year of professional or academic experience in a microbiological, food science, brewery, or similar, lab is required. Some background and interest in sensory science is preferred. Must be proficient in aseptic technique and basic lab duties. A passion for craft beer and fundamental understanding of the beer production process is preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Must be able to lift 30 lbs.

Must be able to maneuver 165 lb. kegs into position

Must be able to navigate ladder while sampling from tanks