Quality Control Lab Technician (HPLC FOCUS)

Funky Buddha Brewery, located in Oakland Park, Florida, is seeking a full-time Quality Control Lab Technician to join its growing team. Established in 2010 at its Boca Raton brewpub, Funky Buddha is known for pushing the boundaries of traditional brewing methods with culinary-inspired recipes utilizing all-natural, food-centric ingredients. The brewery has since expanded into alternative beverage production, including Cannabis-infused products, while maintaining a strong commitment to quality, safety, and compliance.

This role is ideal for a lab professional with hands-on experience who is looking to grow their technical skillset while contributing meaningfully to both beer and Cannabis-infused beverage quality programs. The position will operate with a moderate level of independence and serve as a key contributor within the lab, while also supporting and collaborating with other team members.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

The Quality Control Lab Technician is responsible for executing quality control testing and supporting quality assurance processes across both beer and Cannabis-infused beverage production, with an emphasis on analytical testing, including HPLC operation and data interpretation.

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES:

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

HPLC & Analytical Testing (Core Focus)

• Operate and maintain HPLC systems for quantitative analysis, including Cannabis potency testing
• Prepare samples, standards, and calibration curves
• Perform routine analysis and review results for accuracy and consistency
• Identify potential deviations and escalate findings as needed

Quality Control – Beer & Cannabis Products

• Perform microbiological testing, including, but not limited to, yeast management and viability analysis, as well as PCR analysis to monitor beer/beverage health
• Conduct routine chemical analysis including, but not limited to, pH, ABV, bitterness, and color
• Assist with Cannabis product testing, including potency and sample preparation
• Manage QC library and batch records for products produced at Funky Buddha

Lab Operations & Support

• Maintain lab organization and inventory
• Maintain calibration and maintenance records of lab equipment
• Enter and manage quality data within our LIMS
• Collaborate with production and operations teams

Documentation & Compliance

• Follow and document all SOPs
• Maintain accurate lab records aligned with GMP standards

 SUPPORTIVE FUNCTIONS

In addition to performance of the essential functions, this position may be required to perform a combination of the following supportive functions, with the percentage of time performing each function to be solely determined by the supervisor based upon the particular requirements of the company.

• Assist operations, R&D, and quality initiatives as needed
• Support production and operations teams as needed
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned

REQUIREMENTS:

SPECIFIC JOB KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY

The individual must possess the following knowledge, skills and abilities and be able to demonstrate that he or she can perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation, using some other combination of skills and abilities.

Education:

• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Biology, Fermentation Science, Chemistry, Food Science, or a related field

Experience:

• 1–2 years of hands-on laboratory experience in the food/beverage production industry

Technical Skills:

• Knowledge of beverage quality testing (pH, DO, CO2, Brix, turbidity)
• Experience with HPLC and other analytical tools preferred
• Understanding of fermentation and yeast handling preferred

Quality & Compliance:

• Knowledge of GMP, GLP, and HACCP
• Experience following SOPs

Other Requirements:

• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to work in production/lab conditions

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Near Vision Constant
• Far Vision Constant
• Hearing Constant
• Talking Constant
• Sitting Frequent
• Walking Frequent
• Computer Use Frequent
• Crouching, Bending, Stooping Frequent
• Reaching Occasional
• Grasping Occasional
• Pushing/Pulling Occasional
• Lifting/Carrying up to 55 lbs Occasional
• Climbing Stairs Occasional

SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

OSHA laws require the use of the following Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when performing work duties that have the potential of risk to your health or safety:

• Safety goggles when walking through the Production area
• Steel Toe rubber boots
• Hearing Protection in loud environments
• Safety gloves when handling industrial strength chemicals

Employees will be trained in the proper use and care of assigned PPE.  Funky Buddha Brewery provides the required PPE.  It is your responsibility to report defective, damaged or lost PPE, or equipment that does not fit properly to your Manager.

Funky Buddha Brewery is an Equal Opportunity Employer.