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.