Cellar Technician Berkeley Yeast San Jose, CA Job Details Full-time $50,000
- $57,000 a year 3 hours ago Benefits Paid training Health insurance Dental insurance 401(k) Paid time off On-the-job training Vision insurance 401(k) matching Paid sick time Qualifications Computer operation Records maintenance Teamwork Spreadsheets Manufacturing facility Production planning Computer skills Documentation Handling Production documentation Manufacturing company experience Time management Full Job Description Cellar Technician•Berkeley Yeast•San Jose, CA We are seeking a motivated, detail-oriented production professional who is excited about yeast, fermentation, and manufacturing operations to join our team.
This is a full-time position (approximately 40 hours per week; overtime as needed). Who We Are Berkeley Yeast is a yeast innovation company developing novel brewing strains using advanced genetic techniques. Our strains are designed to produce targeted flavor and aroma compounds during fermentation (tropical, citrus, floral, herbaceous, dank, spicy, etc.) while improving performance attributes such as reduced off-flavors (e.g., diacetyl), faster fermentation, and control over flocculation and attenuation. Our goal is to give brewers better tools to make great beer while saving time, reducing cost, and lowering environmental impact. About the Position The Cellar Technician supports our manufacturing operations by scaling yeast to commercial, pitchable quantities. The primary focus is vessel preparation, media production, propagation support, and aseptic handling of liquid yeast. You will work closely with the lab and packaging teams to ensure production activities are executed safely, consistently, and according to established procedures. This role requires strong attention to detail, process awareness, and the ability to manage multiple workflows simultaneously while maintaining strict adherence to SOPs, documentation, and quality standards. Unlike many production roles, this position provides visibility into the complete manufacturing process, from media preparation and propagation through packaging and shipment. Work Environment & Expectations Repetitive, high-precision production work is a core part of this role Strict adherence to SOPs, aseptic technique, documentation, and process control is required Work is closely integrated with production operations and timelines Daily priorities may shift based on production needs, equipment availability, or customer requirements; flexibility and adaptability are important Primary Responsibilities Perform clean-in-place (CIP) and sanitize-in-place (SIP) procedures on propagation vessels Prepare media using steam-heated production equipment Perform aseptic harvest and handling of liquid yeast Operate peristaltic pumps, autoclaves, and related production equipment Support propagation activities and production scheduling Conduct preventative maintenance and routine equipment checks Maintain detailed and accurate production records Coordinate closely with lab and packaging teams to support production flow Maintain facility cleanliness and organization Secondary Responsibilities Parts assembly and stocking Equipment setup and assembly Interdepartmental support as needed What We're Looking For Strong team-oriented mindset; takes ownership of shared outcomes Ability to work independently while maintaining quality and safety standards Comfort following SOPs with high consistency High attention to detail and documentation accuracy Strong time management and ability to manage multiple concurrent processes Commitment to aseptic technique, quality, and process control Clear communication and positive, collaborative attitude Efficiency-minded with a focus on throughput and quality Ability to recognize and communicate process, equipment, or workflow issues before they impact production Curiosity and analytical thinking; able to use observations and data to make informed recommendations Enthusiasm for beer, fermentation, and continuous learning Requirements 1+ year of professional brewing, cellar, fermentation, or manufacturing experience Ability to lift up to 55 lbs repeatedly Must be at least 21 years of age Basic computer proficiency (email, spreadsheets, documentation) Strong record-keeping skills
Availability:
Sunday to Thursday or Monday to Friday Typical shifts: 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM or 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM Preferred Experience Root cause analysis and structured problem-solving (e.g., CAPA) Familiarity with quality systems and food/manufacturing standards (e.g., GMP, HACCP) Exposure to ERP or production management systems Brewery, fermentation, food production, or regulated manufacturing experience Familiarity with pumps, fluid handling systems, and process equipment Mechanical aptitude and comfort with basic equipment maintenance Compensation & Benefits $50,000 to $57,000 per year, commensurate with experience Health, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) with employer matching after 1 year Flexible PTO policy designed to balance personal time and operational need
Pay:
$50,000.00
00 per year
Benefits:
401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance On-the-job training Paid sick time Paid time off
Work Location:
In person
