At Russian River Brewing Company, quality is at the core of everything we do. Founded by Vinnie and Natalie Cilurzo, we produce world-renowned beers from our Santa Rosa and Windsor locations. We foster a collaborative, team-oriented environment focused on quality and continuous improvement and doing things the right way.

The Lab Manager leads our quality control and quality assurance laboratory program, ensuring the consistency, integrity, and continuous improvement of our products, processes, and techniques. This role supports daily brewing operations through data-driven insights, cross-functional collaboration, and hands-on laboratory leadership.

What You Will Do

Lead, manage, train, and work alongside the lab team, ensuring a strong commitment to quality standards
Collect and analyze samples throughout the brewing and packaging processes
Design and perform targeted lab analyses to support operational decision making
Partner closely with Brewing, Packaging, and Production teams to identify trends, troubleshoot issues, and drive corrective actions
Maintain product quality through adherence to good manufacturing practices, specifications, and quality procedures
Develop and maintain laboratory Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Manage yeast and microorganism programs across both breweries, including future yeast propagation
Oversee the sensory program using DraughtLab software
Record, analyze, and report lab results to key stakeholders
Monitor dissolved oxygen (DO) and total package oxygen (TPO) and communicate results to the packaging team
Operate, maintain, and train others on laboratory equipment and systems
Coordinate with internal or external technical support when needed
Support continuous improvement efforts and participate in industry learning opportunities

Qualifications

Strong verbal and written communication skills
Ability to lead, coach, and develop team members
Strong problem solving and analytical skills
High level of organization and attention to detail
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Positive, flexible, and team-oriented mindset
Demonstrated commitment to high quality standards
Passion for science, quality, and beer
Ability to build strong cross-functional relationships
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook; Smartsheet experience is a plus
Professional demeanor
Must be at least 21 years of age

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Food Science, or a related field
Minimum of 5 years of experience in a laboratory management or lead laboratory technician role, preferably in the craft beer industry
Minimum of 2 years of people management experience
Experience with quality control and quality assurance programs
Working knowledge of laboratory safety standards and chemical handling
Experience with microbiological testing and analytical methods in a production environment
Work Environment

This role operates in a brewery laboratory environment and includes:

Working with laboratory equipment and testing procedures
Handling chemicals and biological materials using proper safety protocols
A mix of sitting and standing throughout the day
Occasional lifting and physical tasks
Collaboration across production, packaging, and brewery operations

Additional Information

This position includes direct supervisory responsibilities
Schedule flexibility is required, including occasional evenings and weekends
All employees are expected to follow safety protocols, wear appropriate PPE, and adhere to company policies

Benefits

401(k) matching
Employee assistance program
Employee discount and other perks
Flexible schedule
Health insurance (Medical, Dental, Vision)
Life insurance
Several voluntary plans