Brewery Lab Manager

HOMES is a thriving community of food and beverage businesses in Ann Arbor, MI. We operate a nationally acclaimed production brewery, brewpub, commissary kitchen, coffee shop and roaster, alongside events & catering. With something always happening, our work environment is high-energy and creative, a bustling community that draws in thousands of locals and tourists each year.

With a commitment to excellence and a passion for pushing the boundaries of flavor, we are seeking a skilled and experienced Lab Manager to join our dynamic team. This role will be responsible for managing our lab to ensure the highest standards of quality and consistency in the beverages that we produce. Additionally, in this role you will oversee aspects of quality control and assurance, from raw materials to finished goods, implementing and maintaining rigorous protocols to uphold our reputation.

What You’ll Do:

• Develop and implement quality control procedures and protocols to ensure consistency and compliance with regulatory standards
• Conduct regular inspections and audits to identify areas for improvement and ensure adherence to quality standards
• Perform thorough analysis of our beverages in a lab setting using a variety of analytical techniques, including sensory evaluation, microbiological testing, and chemical analysis
• Collaborate with production, brewing, and packaging teams to identify and resolve quality issues in a timely manner, implementing corrective and preventive actions as needed
• Maintain accurate records and documentation of quality control data, test results, and compliance records
• Stay current on industry trends, regulatory requirements, and best practices in quality assurance and quality control
• Maintains Yeast Propagation Program and makes adjustments to processes as discussed with the Production Manager
• Perform quality testing with a cellometer, Cbox, PCR Machine, and plating on a daily basis

Requirements

• Passionate about beer and fermentation, with an insatiable desire to learn
• Team player, optimistic, empathetic, can work through conflict constructively
• Able to work a flexible schedule
• Ability to stand for long periods of time, bend, and occasionally lift heavy objects

What You’ll Bring:

• Bachelor's degree in Brewing Science, Fermentation, Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related field
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in quality control/quality assurance in a brewery or beverage manufacturing environment
• Strong knowledge of brewing processes, fermentation, and beer chemistry
• Experience with laboratory techniques and equipment, including Microbial cell plating, DO meter, Yeast Cellometer, ABV/pH/Gravity analysis, and sensory evaluation
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements for food and beverage manufacturing (FDA, TTB, Department of Agriculture etc.).
• Familiarity with OSHA Safety standards and ability to conduct company wide safety training 
• Certification in quality management (e.g., ASQ Certified Quality Manager) is a plus
• Strong understanding of HACCP and GMP

Benefits

• Health/Dental/Vision Insurance plans with company contribution
• Employee discounts across brands
• Flexible schedule
• Earned Time Off (ETO)
• Room for growth in responsibility + pay

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

We consider all qualified applicants for employment without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other factors prohibited by law.