Job Location : Bardstown,KY, USA
At Barton 1792 Distillery, we don't just craft award-winning spirits — we craft excellence. Our people are our most valuable asset, and we're looking for a driven, detail-oriented Laboratory Technician to join our Quality team. If you're passionate about precision, compliance, and continuous improvement in a fast-paced, high-volume production environment, we want to hear from you.
Key Responsibilities:
Conduct analytical and sensory evaluations of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished goods to ensure adherence to internal specifications and regulatory standards
Perform routine quality audits, GMP compliance checks, and statistical process control (SPC) monitoring across production lines
Provide real-time feedback to frontline production teams on quality metrics and critical control points (CCPs) to drive accountability and performance
Participate in and lead Root Cause Analysis (RCA) and Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA) initiatives using structured problem-solving tools (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone, DMAIC)
Support cross-functional teams in the implementation of ISO/FSSC 22000 and HACCP
Maintain and calibrate laboratory instruments according to Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and support continuous improvements in lab workflow, ergonomics, and safety
Assist with writing, reviewing, and updating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and laboratory documentation in compliance with TTB, OSHA, and EPA regulations
Contribute to internal audits, quality system reviews, and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product integrity and customer satisfaction
Be a quality culture champion by promoting adherence to food safety, traceability, and regulatory compliance across departments
Scheduled shift: 7:00PM-7:00AM, on rotating 2-2-3 schedule including weekends and holidays
MUST-HAVE QUALIFICATIONS:
Associate's degree in a technical discipline such as Chemistry, Biology, Food Science, or a related scientific field
Ability and flexibility to work varied shifts in a 24/7 manufacturing environment
Must be at least 21 years of age to work in a distilled spirits production facility
Solid working knowledge of mathematics, laboratory methods, and scientific techniques relevant to quality testing and process validation
Demonstrated experience with root cause analysis (RCA) and application of problem-solving methodologies (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagrams, DMAIC)
Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly present data and collaborate cross-functionally
Strong analytical mindset and technical aptitude to interpret lab results and process data
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook) for documentation, data analysis, and reporting
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
3+ years of relevant experience in a QA/QC lab or manufacturing environment, preferably in beverage or food production
Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Food Science, or related discipline
Familiarity with beverage processing systems and associated production/laboratory equipment (e.g., filtration, blending, bottling lines)
Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles, including 5S, Kaizen, and waste reduction strategies
Salary info:
$30 - $40 / hr