Quality Assurance (QA) Analyst - Microbiology

Founded in 1988 in Bend, Oregon, Deschutes Brewery has been pushing the craft beer movement forward for more than three decades. Today, we're proud to be the 6th largest independent craft brewery in the United States, with a reputation built on innovation, quality, and a whole lot of passion for producing a great product. Deschutes continues to grow, with a footprint in all 50 states, one of the fastest growing non-alcoholic portfolio's in the country. We've also partnered with brands including Patagonia Provisions, Boneyard Beer and PartyBomb, a new-to-world flavored malt beverage. From hop-forward classics to creative seasonal releases, award winning non-alcoholic beers to flavor forward malt beverages, we're driven by one simple goal: brew damn tasty beverages that bring people together. If you're looking to do meaningful work with people who care deeply about their craft -and know how to have fun along the way - Deschutes Brewery is a place where you can grow and make an impact.

We are seeking a qualified Quality Assurance (QA) - Analyst - Microbiology to join our team! This position follows a Monday–Friday schedule consisting of five 8-hour shifts, with a start time of 8:00 a.m. Base wages when joining this team start at $27.77/hour depending on previous experience and education. This position offers a career path up to $32.81/hour for our employees who successfully complete our training program and hold several years of experience in this department.

In this role, you will perform routine microbiological testing, interpret results, troubleshoot laboratory and production issues, and support investigations into unexpected findings and potential contamination. The role will help ensure product quality, data integrity, and compliance with applicable brewery protocols and food safety requirements.

The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in microbiology, sound scientific judgment, and attention to detail. The position requires the ability to work independently, collaborate effectively with QA co-owners and our production teams, and recognize when further investigation or escalation is needed.

On-the-job training will be provided in brewery-specific microbiology methods, production processes, and specialized sampling practices. Limited support for routine analytical laboratory activities may also be required, with responsibilities assigned based on training and business demands.

What You'll Be Doing:

As a member of the Deschutes Brewery Quality Assurance team, you'll learn from experienced co-owners, develop your laboratory skills, and contribute to collaborative problem-solving and troubleshooting efforts. You'll work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment, balancing independent work with collaboration across Quality and Production while following applicable Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and food safety requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform routine microbiological testing using appropriate aseptic techniques and laboratory methods to obtain reliable results and prevent contamination.
• Conduct bright-field microscopy, staining, microbial cultivation, incubation, and other microbiological examinations.

• Perform microbial enumeration and bioburden testing using methods such as membrane filtration, pour plating, and tube fermentation, and interpret results.
• Support rapid microbial detection testing using biochemical methods (ATP) nucleic acid amplification techniques (qPCR), as applicable.

• Prepare and handle laboratory media, reagents, and supplies for assigned testing activities.
• Review and interpret microbiological results, document observations, and identify unexpected findings or potential anomalies.
• Maintain accurate, traceable laboratory records and a clean, organized, and safe working environment.
• Troubleshoot routine laboratory issues using scientific reasoning and systematic problem-solving.
• Identify potential contamination sources and support investigations into unexpected results, nonconformances, and corrective actions.
• Identify deviations in test results, procedures, or equipment performance and determine when further investigation or escalation is warranted.

Quality Systems and Laboratory Support

• Follow applicable SOPs, laboratory safety practices, and quality system requirements while maintaining accurate training records and supporting data integrity.
• Assist in developing, reviewing, and updating laboratory procedures, training materials, and related documentation to promote consistent practices and continuous improvement.
• Support laboratory inventory management, reagent availability, equipment care, routine maintenance, and related recordkeeping.
• Communicate laboratory findings and significant quality concerns to QA leadership and relevant operational stakeholders.
• Coordinate testing activities to support quality objectives and production priorities.
• Provide limited support for routine analytical laboratory activities based on training and demonstrated competency.
• Contribute to Deschutes Brewery initiatives and goals and perform other related laboratory and quality assurance duties as assigned.

What You'll Need to be Successful:

• A Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Microbiology, Biology, Fermentation Science, or a closely related scientific discipline.
• A combination of relevant experience, training, or education in microbiology, environmental monitoring, brewing, or food science, as well as familiarity with beverage production and packaging processes, is an asset but not required.
• Proficiency in fundamental microbiological laboratory practices, including aseptic technique, microscopy, staining, and microbial cultivation.
• Foundational knowledge of bacterial physiology and biochemistry.

• Understanding of laboratory documentation, data integrity, good laboratory practices, and applicable safety requirements.
• Ability to prepare technical reports and contribute to SOP development and revision.
• Strong analytical and practical problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Effective time management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage assigned work with limited supervision.
• Ability to walk, stand, sit, and lift up to 35 pounds.

Just some of the awesome perks of working for Deschutes Brewery:

• Awesome co-workers!
• Medical, dental and vision insurance
• 401k Match of 4% vested immediately!
• 2 weeks paid vacation, 1 week sick leave, and paid holidays. "On Demand Pay" (get your money when you need it) available through DailyPay
• Employee stock ownership - be a part owner of Deschutes Brewery!
• Pro deals with local companies
• Discounts on Deschutes Brewery and Boneyard Beer merchandise, packaged beer, and kegs
• Free beer for those 21+!

Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every one of the qualifications as described in a job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. We would encourage you to apply, even if you don't believe you meet every one of our qualifications described. If you are unsure whether you meet the qualifications of this position, or how this would be determined, please feel free to contact HR@deschutesbrewery.com to discuss your application.