Head Brewer - Balter Beerworks

Job DescriptionBalter Beerworks is an award-winning Knoxville brewery and restaurant known for producing high-quality craft beer, delivering exceptional hospitality, and serving as a gathering place for our community. We are seeking an experienced, passionate, and hands-on Head Brewer to lead all brewing operations, continue our commitment to quality, and help shape the next chapter of Balter’s growth.This is a leadership role for someone who takes pride in creating great beer, building strong teams, maintaining rigorous quality standards, and driving operational excellence.The Head Brewer is responsible for all aspects of brewery production, including recipe development, brewing operations, cellar management, packaging, quality assurance, inventory management, compliance, and FOH team beer education.The ideal candidate is equally comfortable in the brewery, in the lab, managing schedules, controlling costs, and representing the brewery within the local craft beer community.Key ResponsibilitiesBrewing & ProductionExecute and oversee all brewing operationsMaintain consistent quality across all beer brandsManage brewing schedules to meet production goalsLead recipe development and seasonal beer programsMonitor fermentation, conditioningMaintain accurate production records and reportingEnforce quality control standardsPerform routine sensory evaluationsManage yeast health and propagation programsEnsure beer stability and consistencyOversee lab testing and quality documentationInventory & Cost ControlManage raw material purchasingMaintain ingredient and packaging inventoriesMonitor brewery yields and lossesControl brewing costs and improve efficienciesWork closely with ownership on annual budgetingCompliance & SafetyEnsure compliance with all TTB, state, and local regulationsMaintain brewery safety programsManage SDS documentation and chemical handling proceduresOversee equipment maintenance and preventative maintenance programsCommunity & BrandRepresent Balter at beer festivals and industry eventsCollaborate on beer releases and marketing initiativesServe as a brand ambassador within the craft beer communityQualificationsMinimum 2 years professional brewing experienceMinimum 1 year in a brewery leadership roleStrong understanding of brewing science and fermentationExperience with cellar operations and quality programsAbility to lift 55+ pounds and work in a production environmentExcellent communication and leadership skills