Head Brewer

Head Brewer – Frederick, MD

Full-Time · On-site

$65,000 - $75,000 per year

Relocation Assistance Available

About Us

We are an independently owned craft brewery located in Frederick, MD, producing up to 4,000 BBLs annually. Our operation includes a dedicated production facility, an in-house canning line, and a separate taproom focused on fresh, innovative beer. We are quality-driven, community-minded, and looking for a hands-on, motivated Head Brewer to lead our small production team.

Role Overview

This is a highly hands-on position ideal for someone who thrives in a small-team environment. The Head Brewer will handle most production responsibilities independently, supported by an assistant brewer with additional assistance during canning runs and when needed. The role includes brewing, cellaring, packaging, quality control, and recipe development, as well as overseeing day-to-day production operations.

Responsibilities

Brewhouse Operations

• Lead all stages of brewing: milling, mashing, boiling, fermenting, and packaging.
• Operate and maintain a canning line for consistent packaging quality.
• Manage yeast health, ingredient usage, water adjustments, and fermentation profiles.
• Perform CIP, sanitation, equipment upkeep, and safety procedures.

Production Management

• Develop and refine recipes for both flagship and limited-release beers.
• Create and manage production schedules for taproom and distribution needs.
• Track inventory of raw materials and packaging supplies; place and manage orders.
• Maintain detailed production logs, QC notes, and compliance documentation.

Leadership & Team Support

• Oversee and mentor the assistant brewer, delegating tasks effectively.
• Maintain a safe, efficient, organized production space.
• Work with ownership and taproom staff to ensure production aligns with business goals.

Qualifications

• 3 years professional brewing experience; head brewer or lead brewer experience preferred.
• Strong technical understanding of brewing processes and quality standards.
• Experience with packaging equipment, especially canning lines.
• Comfortable with physical demands: lifting 55 lbs, working in hot/cold/wet environments.
• Demonstrated ability to replicate existing recipes accurately and deliver a consistently high-quality product across all batches.
• Proven creativity and technical skill in developing new recipes that expand and enhance the brewery’s portfolio.
• Strong organization, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Passion for craft beer and continuous improvement.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience managing/developing barrel-aging programs
• Familiarity with safe and efficient forklift operation in a production environment.
• Knowledge of non-alcoholic beverage production methods and quality considerations.
• Familiar with tastings and pairings(Cicerone is a plus)"
• Knowledge of wholesale and distribution in Maryland and surrounding states.