About Clear Water Distilling Co.
Job Summary
The Head Distiller will be the driving force behind Clear Water Distilling’s production, innovation, and quality assurance. This role is central to creating exceptional spirits, overseeing fermentation, distillation, blending, and aging, while leading a talented production team.
The ideal candidate combines technical expertise with visionary leadership, a passion for innovation, and a commitment to safety. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced distiller ready to take their career to the next level by playing a pivotal role in an innovative, fast-growing premium brand.
Key Responsibilities
Production Leadership:
• Oversee the entire production process, from raw material selection to fermentation, distillation, aging, blending, and bottling.
• Develop and refine recipes for premium spirits, ensuring unparalleled quality and consistency.
• Monitor and optimize production processes to enhance flavor profiles, yields, and operational efficiency.
Innovation and Product Development:
• Spearhead experimental distillation projects and new product development.
• Collaborate with marketing and senior leadership to align production with brand vision and consumer expectations.
• Stay ahead of industry trends and emerging technologies to maintain an innovative edge.
Quality Control:
• Conduct sensory evaluations and chemical analyses to ensure product excellence.
• Establish and maintain rigorous quality assurance protocols throughout the production lifecycle.
• Address and troubleshoot production challenges promptly.
Team Leadership:
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of distillers and production staff.
• Foster a collaborative and innovative team environment, encouraging professional growth.
• Implement training programs and conduct regular performance evaluations.
Compliance and Safety:
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations, including TTB documentation and reporting.
• Uphold a culture of safety, conducting regular audits and staff training.
• Oversee preventive maintenance programs for all distillery equipment.
Warehouse and Inventory Management:
• Manage warehouse procedures, including the storage and handling of raw materials and finished products.
• Maintain accurate inventory levels and work closely with procurement to source premium-quality ingredients.
• Identify and implement cost-saving and process improvement initiatives.
Key Qualifications
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Biochemistry, or related field preferred; equivalent hands-on experience in distillation will also be considered.
• Experience: Minimum of 7 years in spirits production, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Expertise in fermentation, distillation, barrel aging, blending, and bottling operations.
• Proven ability to scale production while maintaining exceptional quality.
• Strong leadership skills with experience building and mentoring successful teams.
• Passion for spirits, sustainability, and innovation, with a deep understanding of the industry.
• Knowledge of TTB compliance and regulatory processes.
• Forklift certification preferred but not required.
• Manual dexterity and ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
Desired Skills and Attributes
• Certifications in distillation or related fields (e.g., WSET, IBD).
• Strong analytical skills with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Creativity and innovation in product development.
• Collaborative and able to work cross-departmentally.
• Commitment to continuous learning, development, and improvement.
• Experience with sourcing high-quality ingredients and negotiating pricing.
• Familiarity with CIP procedures and equipment calibrationBenefits and Compensation
• Competitive salary with performance-based bonuses.
• Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance.
• Paid vacation and holidays.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Employee discounts on products and company events.
• Opportunity to earn an ownership stake in the company.
• Professional development opportunities to grow alongside a rapidly expanding brand.
Why Join Clear Water Distilling Co.?
This is more than just a job—it’s a chance to lead innovation in the spirits industry, create world-class products, and become a part of a passionate team dedicated to reshaping the future of premium spirits. As Head Distiller, you’ll have the opportunity to leave your mark on a growing brand, all while earning a stake in its success.
Let’s build the future of spirits together.
This version sharpens the appeal to experienced candidates, emphasizes career growth and innovation, and underscores the unique opportunity for ownership and leadership in a premium brand. Let me know if you’d like further refinements!
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Clear Water Distilling Co. is a pioneering distillery redefining traditional spirits by crafting bold, innovative, and premium-quality products. Our commitment to excellence begins with sourcing the finest natural ingredients and employing sustainable practices, creating award-winning spirits free from additives and artificial flavors.
Our flagship product, René RyeMagnac, has earned prestigious recognition, including a Double Gold medal at the TAG Global Spirit Awards, while our vodka achieved Gold at the SF World Spirits Competition. These accolades highlight our dedication to pushing the boundaries of quality and innovation in the spirits industry.
We cater to a discerning clientele who value the intersection of craftsmanship, sustainability, and creativity in every sip. As an emerging leader in the premium spirits market, Clear Water Distilling Co. invites you to join our journey to shape the future of a dynamic and rapidly growing brand. This role also includes opportunities to earn an ownership stake as we build something extraordinary together.