Position Title: Distiller
Job Location: Pine Island, NY
Reports to: Production Manager / Master Distiller
To APPLY: Please email Sharon at email: sbridbord@proximospirits.com and Resume must be included, Email Subject: Black Dirt Distiller Application
Position Summary: This position performs, monitors, and documents batch process operations from mashing and fermenting of raw materials through the distillation and barreling of spirits.
Distillery Operations:
Prepares and batches raw materials including weighing, mixing and the processing of all ingredients within a very specific order, quantity, and time.
Operates and maintains the mashing and fermenting processes equipment required for grain transfer, milling, mashing, cooling, yeast handling, fermenting, and liquid transfers.
Operates and maintains the distillation unit, takes samples at specific times and temperatures to measure for spirit quality and production throughput.
Continually monitors all stages of the process, especially critical time and temperature requirements.
Continually monitors and adjusts working parameters of equipment to ensure proper operation and timely turnaround.
Performs cutting of finished spirit by processing through measured stages to achieve finished quality targets.
Fills barrels with spirit, transfers to storage areas and documents barrel inventories.
Performs CIP operations on tanks, lines, heat exchangers, and other equipment while following all appropriate quality, PPE and safety procedures.
Supports the production reporting processes, raw material usage, and inventory accuracy.
Supports receiving materials, and unloading trucks using a forklift.
At times assists with whiskey processing activities to support bottling operations.
Overall Responsibilities:
Responsible for personal safety and the safety of others.
Responsible for informing Manager of any existing safety issue, process deviation, product loss, unplanned outage or unexpected environmental discharge.
Maintains a high regard for the quality of the product produced and the work performed.
Responsible for accurate documentation and recording throughout the production process.
Responsible for the maintenance of all tanks, pumps, valves and other process equipment in assigned area.
Maintains sanitation in area of responsibility and follows all SOP’s and GMPs to the letter.
Able to safely operate a fork truck for unloading and staging materials.
Performs all other duties as assigned or required by the Production Manager.
Physical Requirements:
Heavy lifting over 55 lbs.
Ability to frequently reach with hands and arms, stoop, kneel, and crouch.
Ability to stand for long periods
Qualifications:
Minimum High School diploma, College degree in Sciences or Industrial Technology is highly preferred.
1-3 years production brewing/distilling/wine making experience highly preferred.
Background in biochemistry and/or lab experience highly preferred
Production maintenance background, knowledge of equipment operation and reliability.
Strong mechanical ability with problem solving/troubleshooting skills.
Good organizational skills, ability to multi-task and provide accurate documentation.
Ability to follow direction, work independently and be a team player supporting business operations.
Proper use of PPE and safe chemical handling knowledge is required.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
This position requires above average verbal and written communication skills, math and science skills. Candidate must have a working knowledge of production operations, have solid organization skills and be detail oriented. Must be completely familiar with appropriate safety procedures such as PPE use, confined space entry and hazard communications requirements. A strong mechanical background is preferred, be goal and objective oriented, and be able to work cohesively as a team. Must be able to work effectively with all levels of staff.
Typical Working Environment:
This position works entirely in a production environment. Rotational shift work is required and willingness to work weekends when requested. Noise, dust, and variable temperature and use of production chemicals are also typical in this work environment. May be required to work and direct in confined spaces.
Black Dirt Distillery - Distiller Job Description 2022.docx
