Head Brewer

Production work is focused, detail-oriented, and mostly self-directed. In this role, you will need to be mechanically inclined, dexterous, comfortable working with large equipment, and serious about safety. You have excellent communication, time management, troubleshooting, and organizational skills. The Head Brewer will manage our 15HL steam-jacket brewhouse along with eight fermentation vessels, two bright tanks and 12 serving tanks. You will manage all aspects of production, including: product planning, recipe development, brewing, cellaring, ingredient management and inventory, cleaning, packaging, scheduling, providing occasional brewery tours and serving staff training, and completing other tasks associated with the operations and management of a small craft brewery. There is also an assistant brewer on staff who has graduated from the Olds College brewing program and worked in our brewery for the past 2 years.

Duties and responsibilities

• Plan, organize, direct, control, and evaluate the operations of the production department 
• Develop and implement plans to efficiently use materials, labour, and equipment to meet production targets 
• In collaboration with the GM, plan and manage the departmental budget 
• Assist in developing and maintaining the production schedule 
• Accurately brew recipes to completion on 15HL brewhouse 
• Perform gravity and pH measurements of active brews 
• Perform yeast work and fermentation management work with assistant brewer on recipe formulations 
• Direct quality control inspection systems, develop production reporting procedures, and maintain proper records based on daily duties in the brewery 
• Use or learn to use spreadsheets and software to assist with scheduling, forecasting, production, sales planning, and maintaining an inventory of raw materials and finished products 
• Assist in planning and implementing changes to machinery and equipment, production systems, and methods of work, and assist in keeping SOPs current and accurate 
• Employ your WHMIS and MSDS knowledge to safely use chemicals 
• Perform a sensory analysis of beer and detect off-flavours and defects including weekly QC tastings with 4-9 others on the QC tasting team 
• Host occasional brewery tours, attend major events, and work or speak at events. The events will be evaluated on a case by case basis. 
• Clean, maintain, and repair equipment or contract appropriate repair trades people. We have preferred contractors that are familiar with our brewery 
• Clean and fill kegs 
• Along with the assistant brewer, perform cellaring duties including CIP, purge, transfer, fining, carbonation, etc. 
• Perform general brewery cleaning including floors, drains, tank exteriors, equipment, lab, and production and storage spaces 
• Ensure the highest standards of cleanliness and sanitation are maintained at all times 
• With the assistant brewer, help with Mile 37 contracted mobile canning line as required (approx 4 times annually but could increase with demand) 
• Develop equipment maintenance schedules and recommend the replacement of machines 
• Stock inventory and organize all spaces in the brewery 
• Assist in training new taproom staff on finished products 
• Train and supervise part-time production staff in the use of equipment and performance of work (only during busy summer months) 
• Perform other brewery duties not listed above as necessary.

Experience and Skills:

• Degree or diploma in brewing, brewery operations, or equivalent (preferred) 
• Minimum 5 years of brewing experience, preferably in both small and large production facilities A valid Class 5 Driver's License with a clean driving record 
• Excellent communication. Must be able to speak, read, and write legibly in English 
• Physically able to work on your feet for long hours and be able to safely maneuver full 50-litre kegs or 130 pounds, and carry 2 flats of beer -Strong mechanical aptitude to troubleshoot issues as they arise 
• Strong work ethic, “let’s get it done” attitude and a fast-paced working style 
• An enthusiastic team spirit when working in groups 
• A hygienic and tidy appearance (must comply with our “clean but casual” dress code) 
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail 
• Acute attention to safety standards 
• Eager to learn new things and grow as an employee and as a person 
• Dependable and consistent attendance and punctuality 
• Must be legally able to work in Canada

Pay Range (hourly or salary): $65,000-$80,000 (based on experience)

Company Website: Red Bird Brewing

Job Location: Kelowna, BC 

How To Apply: Email your resume and cover letter to Adam Semeniuk at info@redbirdbrewing.com

Application Deadline: 02/17/2025