Bad Shepherd are part of the beer community in Melbourne's south-east, brewing beer, serving BBQ food, and hosting events at their brewpub in Cheltenham.
If you're looking for a new and expansive role, they're hiring a head brewer.
JOB DESCRIPTION: HEAD BREWER
About Us
Bad Shepherd is an award-winning craft brewery dedicated to creating unique, high-quality beers enjoyed by our community and beyond. Currently, we’re seeking an experienced Head Brewer to lead our brewing team and drive quality beer production.
About the Role
The Head Brewer will oversee all aspects of brewing operations from recipe development to production and finished goods storage/logistics, ensuring consistent, high-quality products that align with our brand's vision and standards. This role requires a passionate, hands-on leader with a keen eye for detail and a drive for continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
1. Brewing & Operations Management
- Lead the brewing team in the creation, production, and packaging of all beer styles.
- Oversee all stages of the brewing process, ensuring high-quality, consistent products.
- Manage brewing schedules, including raw material sourcing, inventory, and production planning.
- Warehouse management including management of warehouse manager, finished goods inventory stock management and inbound/outbound logistics planning.
- Lead safety committee responsible for adherence to and development of safety protocols
2. Quality Assurance
- Develop and implement quality control measures to ensure consistency and excellence in every batch.
- Conduct regular sensory analysis and testing, making adjustments as needed.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe brewing environment, adhering to health and safety regulations.
3. Recipe Development & Innovation
- Develop and refine beer recipes in line with profit targets, customer preferences and market trends.
- Experiment with new ingredients, processes, and styles to expand the brewery’s portfolio.
- Collaborate with the sales and marketing team on seasonal and limited-edition brews.
4. Team Leadership & Training
- Supervise, mentor, and train brewing team members, fostering a collaborative and motivating work environment.
- Maintain and optimise standard operating procedures for all production activities.
- Lead recruitment, performance reviews, and professional development of staff.
5. Inventory & Cost Management
- Manage raw material and ingredient inventories, including tracking, ordering, and vendor relationships.
- Work within budget constraints, optimizing production costs and reducing waste.
Skills & Experience
- Minimum 3 years experience in commercial brewing, with at least 1 year in a leadership role, supervising and developing others.
- Strong knowledge of brewing processes, equipment, and quality control standards.
- Proficiency with brewing software and lab testing methods.
- Ability to lift up to 25kg and work in varying temperatures.
- Hold a current drivers and forklift licence.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Passion for craft beer and commitment to delivering exceptional brews.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and potential for bonuses
- Flexible work arrangements and 4 day weeks available
- Professional development and growth opportunities
- Discounts on products
To apply, please send your resume and cover letter detailing your experience and passion for craft beer to dereck@badshepherd.com.au.
To be considered you must have the right to live and work in Australia.
