Head Brewer

Summary of Company:

Rhinegeist Brewery is a regional craft brewery based in the historic Over-The-Rhine in downtown Cincinnati, Ohio. We have built a strong and dedicated team of employees that believe in the power of beer to bring people together, create fantastic ideas, and build a community. Our unique group of employee-owners believes that it is our responsibility to make inspiring beverages and cultivate memorable experiences. We strive to find high-quality, creative solutions with a fierce spirit of independence as we grow. Rhinegeist welcomes all people and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Diverse candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. 

Position Summary:

The Head Brewer will lead our brewing operations and oversee all aspects of beer production, recipe development, quality control, and team management. This role requires technical expertise, creativity, and leadership to ensure that we produce high-quality beer that meets our brand’s standards.

Responsibilities:

Brewing Operations:

• Manage and oversee the entire brewing process, from raw material evaluation to filtration.
• Work with Brewing Managers to ensure appropriate staffing and training to meet production demands.
• Develop and scale recipes, ensuring consistency and innovation in our production beer lineup.
• Implement and improve standard operating procedures (SOPs) to optimize efficiency in collaboration with the Engineering team.
• Work with the production team to meet production goals while maintaining high standards across a 24hr production schedule.

Quality Control & Safety:

• Work with QA Manager and lab team to ensure all beers meet quality specifications through regular testing (gravity, pH, fermentation tracking, etc.).
• Maintain a clean and sanitary brewing environment in compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Ensure proper yeast management, including harvesting, pitching, and viability checks.

Team Leadership & Training:

• Lead and mentor the brewing team, providing training on brewing techniques and safety protocols.
• Foster a positive and collaborative team environment.
• Assist in hiring, training, and performance evaluations of brewing staff.

Inventory & Equipment Management:

• Manage raw materials, ingredients, and inventory levels to minimize waste and optimize efficiency.
• Work with the maintenance team to limit downtime and ensure proper operation of brewing equipment.
• Work with Accounting and Finance to develop and track to annual budgets and monthly P&L reviews.

Innovation & Brand Representation:

• Experiment with new ingredients and brewing techniques to create unique, high-quality beers.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and taproom teams to develop seasonal and special releases.
• Represent the brewery at events, beer festivals, and industry conferences.

Requirements:

• 5+ years of professional brewing experience, preferably in a leadership role.
• Degree or certification in brewing science, fermentation, or a related field (preferred but not required).
• 1-2 years of experience in a supervisory role
• Strong knowledge of brewing processes, fermentation, yeast management, and quality control.
• Familiarity with brewery safety protocols and sanitation practices.
• Ability to troubleshoot equipment and brewing issues.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to lift 55+ lbs and work in a physically demanding environment.
• Flexible schedule, including occasional evenings and weekends.

Please consider applying even if you do not match all the listed qualifications. Additionally, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of a position. 

Benefits at Rhinegeist: 

• Health/Dental/Vision Insurance
• Employer Paid Basic Life Insurance
• 17 days of PTO
• Paid Parental Leave
• Employee Paid Short-Term/Long-Term Disability/Additional Life Insurance
• Dependent Care – Flexible Spending Account
• 401k Match Offered
• 8 Company & 2 Personal Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• Free Breakroom Snacks
• Beer and Merchandise allowance