Laboratory Technician – Carlow Brewing Company
Location: Carlow
Company: Carlow Brewing Company
Job Type: Maternity Leave Cover
About the Role
Carlow Brewing Company is looking for a Laboratory Technician to join our team and support the quality and consistency of our beers throughout the brewing and packaging process as part as a fixed term contract to cover maternity leave.
This is a hands-on role combining laboratory testing with regular interaction with our Brewing and Packaging teams. The successful candidate will carry out routine analytical and microbiological testing, monitor product quality and help identify and investigate any issues that could affect the quality of our beer.
The position would suit someone with a background in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, Biotechnology, Brewing Science or a related discipline who enjoys working in a practical production environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Carry out routine sampling and laboratory testing of wort, beer and finished products.
- Conduct analytical testing including pH, gravity, alcohol, colour, dissolved oxygen, carbonation and other key quality parameters.
- Monitor beer quality throughout brewing, fermentation, maturation and packaging.
- Carry out quality checks on packaged products.
- Assist with sensory assessment and beer tasting panels.
- Record and maintain accurate laboratory and quality-control results.
- Identify and report results that fall outside agreed specifications.
- Work with Brewing and Packaging teams to investigate quality issues.
- Maintain, calibrate and check laboratory equipment.
- Assist with environmental and hygiene monitoring throughout the brewery.
- Support product shelf-life and stability testing.
- Maintain a clean, organised and safe laboratory.
- Support HACCP, food safety, traceability and quality-management procedures.
What We're Looking For
Essential:
- Qualification in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, Biotechnology, Brewing Science or a related scientific discipline.
- Good laboratory and analytical skills.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Good organisational and record-keeping skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Good communication and problem-solving skills.
- Comfortable working in both laboratory and brewery/production environments.
Desirable:
- Previous laboratory experience within brewing, beverages, food manufacturing or a similar industry.
- Experience with microbiological testing and aseptic techniques.
- Knowledge or interest in brewing and beer production.
- Understanding of HACCP, GMP and food-safety systems.
- Experience with sensory analysis would be an advantage.
Benefits:
- Bike to work scheme
- Company pension
- Employee assistance program
- Employee discount
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
