Distillery Team Lead

IJW Whiskey Company, LLC (IJW) is a dynamic, fully integrated spirits company. Founded in 2017, we've compiled the largest independent library of aged Kentucky bourbon and rye and established a global presence including offices in Beverly Hills, Louisville and Tokyo, Japan, a 40-acre campus in Danville. Our ambitious growth trajectory includes a new whiskey distillery in Shelbyville, KY, slated for completion in early 2026, and a Japanese distillery in Chitose that that will be completed in late 2026. With over 100 years of combined industry expertise, our diverse team of seasoned professionals and dynamic newcomers has propelled IJW to the forefront of the spirits industry. Our strategic partnership with one of the nation's largest independent Wine & Spirits distributors has enabled us to offer 22 products across four unique private label bourbon brands in 28 states. We have added to our spirits portfolio with our first Tequila and Mezcal brands.

Position Overview:

The Distillery Team Lead will assist in overseeing day-to-day distillery operations, supporting the Distillery Supervisor in managing production processes, and leading a team of operators. The Team Lead will help ensure consistent product quality, safe equipment operation, and a well-organized environment. This role requires hands-on leadership, task delegation, and contributing to process improvements.

Job Responsibilities:

Daily Operations:

Oversee the execution of the daily production plan, ensuring efficient operations and high standards of safety, quality, and compliance.

Equipment Management:

Operate and monitor distillery equipment, conducting routine checks, troubleshooting, and ensuring smooth operational flow.

Leadership & Planning:

Assist in planning daily and weekly production activities, assigning tasks to distillery operators, and ensuring all tasks are completed on time and to standard.

Team Development:

Train and support distillery operators, fostering skill development and helping resolve any issues that arise during production.

Safety & Compliance:

Enforce adherence to all safety protocols, GMPs (Good Manufacturing Practices), and quality control standards. Maintain a clean, organized workspace.

Raw Material Management:

Oversee raw material handling, inventory control, and accurate record-keeping of production data.

Process Improvement:

Actively participate in identifying and implementing process improvements to increase operational efficiency and reduce costs.

Collaboration:

Work closely with other departments to coordinate production and ensure seamless operations.

Flexibility:

Perform other duties as assigned by distillery leadership, including nights, weekends and overtime work.

Qualifications:

High School Diploma or GED required. 2 years of college or technical training preferred. Minimum 2 years of relevant experience in a manufacturing or distillery environment. Experience leading a team. Strong mechanical aptitude, with attention to detail and organizational skills. Effective communication and team leadership abilities. Must be at least 21 years of age.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to stand for long periods, lift up to 75 lbs, and navigate the facility. Comfortable working in non-climate-controlled environments. Must be able to access and navigate each department at the organization's facilities, climb stairs, and work at heights.

Benefits:

401(k) with matching Health, dental, and vision insurance Health savings and flexible savings account Short-term and long-term disability insurance Paid time off Referral program Life insurance