Apply Job Type Full-time Description

Sapporo brewed the first beer of Japan in 1876. It’s now the number one selling Asian beer brand in the U.S. thanks to its best-selling Sapporo Premium. Sapporo acquired Stone Brewing in 2022 to brew all of Sapporo’s beer for the U.S. market. Stone Brewing, established in 1996, pioneered the West Coast Style IPA helping to fuel the modern craft beer revolution. Now one company, Sapporo-Stone Brewing is among the 15 largest breweries in the U.S. and operates production facilities in Escondido, CA and Richmond, VA plus seven Stone Brewing taproom and bistro locations. We’ve enjoyed a rich history following our passion and are in search of people who take great pride in building our legacy for the future.

Summary

 The QA Technician is responsible for supporting the execution of Sapporo-Stone’s Quality System through routine sample analysis and laboratory work.  Responsible for including all basic standardized testing and preventative maintenance on lab equipment. This position can be a QA Technician I or a QA Technician II depending on experience.   

This is an opening on 1st shift. Hours: Monday - Friday, 5:00am - 1:30pm. 

Responsibilities

Collect samples for analysis including samples for physchem, sensory, and micro Perform standardized physchem testing on in-process and finished beer including but not limited to: ABV, IBU, color, turbidity, pH, forced fermentations, and water analysis Perform standardized physical testing on packaged beer including but not limited to: total packaged oxygen, carbonation, fill levels, seam checks, and crimp checks Assist with microbiological testing including but not limited to: aseptic sampling, autoclaving, and media preparation Assist with basic sensory assessment by performing True to Target taste panels for bright tank release using DraughtLab, pulling samples for the sensory library, and shipping samples to other locations as needed Accurately report data including updating databases in a timely manner Empowered to hold and release beer based on established QA specifications  Ensure lab equipment is running properly by testing control beer   Perform basic preventative maintenance and calibrations on equipment such as Anton Paar checks and adjustments, Hach PM’s, pH meters, balances, etc. This does not include maintenance on the gas chromatograph, high-performance liquid chromatograph, or thermocyclers Troubleshoot lab equipment and work with the manufacturers as needed  Communicate out of specification results appropriately Prepare stock solutions, media, and other reagents needed for lab operation Maintain a professional and clean lab by storing and organizing lab supplies appropriately, keeping up with washing labware, wiping down the counter tops on a daily basis, etc. Assist in tracking lab supply inventory  Work safely within the brewery and lab at all times  Requirements  Education: Bachelor’s degree or higher in STEM or related field Experience: Academic related experience working in a laboratory is required. Experience in a professional laboratory, brewery or food/beverage manufacturing experience, with GMP/GLP a plus Computer Skills: Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook)  Certificates, Licenses, Registrations: Brewing science, cGMP, or Cicerone program certificates a plus Language Skills: Must be able to effectively communicate in English, both verbally and written Travel Requirements: occasional travel required to other Stone locations 

Compensation, Benefits & Perks

Pay Range: $21.00/hr. - $25.00/hr.Comprehensive Health Insurance, 401K, and Bonuses for Eligible Team MembersCompany beer perks program and discountsPaid Time Off - including Vacation accrual, Sick Leave, and 12 paid HolidaysBenefit programs supporting Financial Wellness, Health & Wellness and Career Development

Sapporo USA and Stone Brewing is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate against applicants or employees because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, citizenship status, various ability status, genetic information, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression of an otherwise qualified individual, or membership in any other class protected by applicable law. Sapporo USA and Stone Brewing hires and promotes individuals based on their qualifications for the job to be filled.

Sapporo USA and Stone Brewing seeks to build a culturally diverse staff where differences are valued and respected. Women, minorities, individuals with various abilities, veterans, LGBTQ+ and intersectional individuals are encouraged to apply.

Salary Description $21.00/hr. - $25.00/hr.