QA/QC Manager

Accepting Applications Through 1/15 or until position is filled.

WeldWerks Brewing is locally owned, and operated craft brewery in historic downtown Greeley, Colorado. We execute our unique and original product line with the highest quality ingredients, a state-of-the-art brewing system, and the latest brewing practices. We strive to create meaningful relationships and memorable experiences with adventurous craft beverages from our taproom in Greeley and through our expansive distribution network.

As a key part of our business, our QA/QC department is responsible for monitoring quality aspects of all stages of the process from raw materials through post-package analysis. The primary duty is ensuring that all products across all formats are sampled, tested, and determined to be of the utmost quality prior to release all the way through depletion of stock.

Quality Leadership & Communication:

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all brewery quality communications and initiatives
• Lead production teams in the implementation and execution of quality programs and continuous-improvement efforts
• Identify quality-related risks and opportunities, and collaborate cross-functionally to develop and implement solutions
• Recommend QA/QC best practices, including laboratory upgrades and capitol investment needs
• Attend required staff meetings, brewery events, and support taproom operations during releases or special events as needed

Laboratory Operations and Testing:

• Oversee routine and non-routine analysis of raw materials, in-process samples, environmental samples, finished goods, and stability samples (physical testing—DO, CO₂, etc.—and microbiological testing—plating, ATP, PCR, etc.)
• Conduct and document daily fermentation and in-process beer analyses
• Monitor and ensure adherence to all established testing procedures, specifications, and protocols
• Continuously evaluate, validate, and improve analytical methods and laboratory procedures
• Manage reactive and preventative maintenance of laboratory instruments and equipment
• Maintain a clean, safe, and compliant laboratory environment

Fermentation and Yeast Management:

• Track and manage yeast health, cropping, storage, generation counts, pitching volumes, and fermentation performance

Sensory and Quality Systems:

• Facilitate sensory panel activities, including sample preparation, panel scheduling, and data analysis
• Maintain all QA/QC record-keeping, documentation, and regulatory compliance
• Develop, update, and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) related to laboratory practices and facility-wide quality processes

Skill and Knowledge:

• Minimum 2 years experience performing above duties in a production brewery b. BS in Microbiology, Chemistry or a related field

• Passion for craft beer and strong understanding of the brewing process and craft beer industry

• Strong verbal and written communication

• Strong work ethic and can do attitude

• Strong understanding of maintenance needs of laboratory equipment

Personal Competencies:

• Remain calm under pressure or when dealing with unexpected challenges or changes b. Be a strong and trusting team player

• Maintain relationships with coworkers, vendors and other breweries

• Advanced problem solving skills

• Excellent communication skills

Supervision:

• Use autonomy in setting objectives and deciding how to proceed

• Duties are given in the form of broad goals or areas of responsibility

• Stay busy through slow periods

• Use company applications to communicate with or update other employees

Hours, Travel, and Physical Requirements:

• Must be 21 years old

• Night and weekend availability on occasion is required

• Must be able to request time off two weeks in advance

• Work in a standing position for long periods of time

• Ability to work in heat, and cold and wet conditions

• Ability to work with hazardous materials typical of a brewery lab

• Health insurance (100% paid employee coverage or 50% premium coverage with dependent)
• 401(k) retirement plan after one year of employment with matching
• Dental, Vision, Life, and Short-term disability insurance options + Health Savings