Lab Technician

In 1985, Ed McNally founded Big Rock Brewery Inc. ("Big Rock") to challenge the beer trends of the time. Three bold, European-inspired offerings forged an industry during an era dominated by easy-drinking lagers and light‑on‑flavour beers. Today, our extensive portfolio of signature beers, seasonal offerings, ciders (Rock Creek Cider® series), hard teas, and custom‑crafted private label products keep us at the forefront of the craft beer revolution—still proudly contesting beer trends and delivering flavour‑forward beverages.

SUMMARY

Big Rock has an exciting opportunity for a Lab Technician to join our Calgary-based Quality Control team. Reporting to the Manager, Quality Systems & Food Safety, the Lab Technician will perform routine sampling and analyses of raw brewing materials, packaging materials, environmental samples, and in-process / finished beer. This includes both quantitative and qualitative testing to ensure our products meet Big Rock Brewery’s quality specifications.

This role is for a 12 hour set night shift.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Laboratory Equipment Use & Maintenance

Operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot UV-spectrophotometers, pH meters, dissolved oxygen meters, CO₂ analyzers, density / alcohol analyzers, TPO analyzers, autoclaves, distillation apparatus, thermometers, incubators, conductivity meters, and other lab instruments.

Chemical Handling & Testing

Safely dilute, handle, and dispose of a wide array of chemicals.

Follow and interpret MSDS documents.

Use fume hoods for safe chemical reactions and proper PPE at all times.

Microbiological Testing

Prepare media and broths for bacteriological analysis.

Collect sterile samples (beer, air, water) using safe sanitization techniques.

Maintain and use lab glassware, microscopes, and autoclaves effectively.

Physical Product Testing

Use precision tools (micrometers, calipers, torque wrenches) for measurements.

Conduct can seam checks and CO₂ testing.

Follow safety protocols for hearing, eye, hand, and foot protection.

Operational & Reporting Duties

Monitor and maintain high-pressure steam generators and boiler chemicals.

Build and maintain statistical spreadsheets, reporting results to supervisors and other departments.

Participate in sensory panels to assess taste, aroma, colour, and mouthfeel.

Contribute to the onsite BRC / HACCP food safety program.

Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience

Completion of the first phase of a Chemical Laboratory Technology Program or Bachelor’s degree in a science discipline.

• 1+ years industry experience in a brewery or food & beverage production quality lab preferred.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with strong task prioritization.
• Excellent relationship-building and communication skills (both verbal and written).
• Ability to present complex technical concepts clearly.
• Proactive problem-solver with process improvement mindset.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Flexible, adaptable, and able to work both independently and in a team setting.

Role Requirements

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