Research and Innovation Technician
Shakopee, Minnesota
Quality Assurance – Lab /
Full Time /
On-site
Rahr Corporation is looking for a Research and Innovation Technician to join our team in Shakopee Minnesota. The Research and Innovation (R&I) Technician conducts routine chemical and biochemical analyses of malt, hop, wort, and beer samples using a variety of instrumentation. This role is responsible for supporting other operations in the R&I Laboratory including instrument maintenance and calibration, chemical inventory and hazardous waste collection, sample preparation and analysis, and updating and editing standard operating procedures. As a member of the Rahr Technical Center & Brewery, the Research and Innovation Technician prioritizes analytical testing and instrumentation processes that align with the company’s innovation and strategic initiatives.
BENEFITS & PERKS:
- Competitive Starting Base Salary Between $52,000 - $62,000 - per year
- Annual Bonus
- Medical benefits with coverage paid for at 90%
- Dental and Vison Programs
- Generous Annual 401(k) Company Contribution of 15%
- Employee Assistance Program
- Paid Life Insurance
- Short Term Disability
- Long Term Disability
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Generous PTO
- Sick Time
- 12 Paid Company Holidays
- Parental Leave
- Career Growth and Progression Paths
- Stability and Backing of a 178-year-old Family Owned and Operated Company
ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Perform routine chemical and biochemical analyses on malt, hops, adjuncts, wort, and beer using a range of techniques (e.g., spectrophotometry, chromatography, enzymatic assays).
- Leverage established SOPs and instrumentation process guides to ensure consistency and quality standards are achieved.
- Analyze and interpret data to assess ingredient quality, process consistency, and product performance.
- Maintain accurate and complete records of all analytical activities in accordance with internal protocols.
- Operate, calibrate, and maintain instrumentation in analytical research lab, including GC, HPLC, UV-Vis Spectroscopy, Microscopy, Mass Spectrometry, and NIR with a focus on LC-MS/MS.
- Maintain detailed records of experimental details and instrumental logs (usage, maintenance, and calibration).
- Provide data, observations, and experimental summaries for technical reports.
- Troubleshoot and optimize instrumentation to ensure high-quality, reproducible data.
- Track laboratory inventory (consumables, chemicals, and reagents).
- Ensure compliance with all safety, quality, and regulatory standards for lab work, and promote a strong safety culture.
- Maintain cleanliness, organization, and functionality of the laboratory workspace.
- Assist in hazardous waste collection and proper disposal.
- Ensure compliance with SOPs, CGMPs, Company quality standards, and FDA/EU guidelines.
- Utilize project management tools to track progress and deadlines on assigned tasks.
- Assist in method development and/or validation as needed.
- Identify changes or edits to SOPs and provides support in writing and/or revisions.
- Participate in events, festivals, and promotions (as needed).
- Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned to support the company and operational needs.
MINIMUM EDUCATION & WORK REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Food Science, Brewing Science, or a related scientific field.
- 2+ years of related experience working in a lab environment or with advanced instruments, ideally within the brewing industry.
- Preferred understanding and knowledge of GC-MS, HPLC, Spectrophometry, and other analytical chemistry equipment.
- Preferred experience with Mass Spectrometry instrumentation; GC-MS, LCMS-MS, chemical derivatization, and data analysis software.
- Strong computer knowledge/proficiency in Microsoft Office—intermediate Excel skills preferred.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
- Self-motivated contributor with an intense curiosity, a strong commitment to operational excellence, and a passion for the beverage industry.
- High level of precision, organization, and care when working with instruments, chemicals, and data to ensure accuracy and repeatability.
- Ability to manage multiple tests and priorities efficiently under tight timelines, ensuring deadlines are achieved.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills to effectively communicate with peers and supervisors.
- Understanding of chemical and biochemical principles relevant to fermentation, malt, hops, and beer.
- Strong practical skills in sample preparation, chemical testing, and data interpretation.
- Proven commitment to good safety practices (wearing proper PPE, assessing and minimizing risks).
- Willingness to learn and to be coached. Takes initiative finding learning opportunities (webinars, courses, etc.)
- Demonstrated accountability for results, approaches obstacles proactively and looks for ways to resolve problems.
- Ability to effectively function in dynamic technical environment.
- Works independently as well as in a team environment.
- Some mechanical knowledge for hands – on maintenance and operation of analytical instrumentation.
Rahr is a family-owned global leader and trusted partner to the craft beverage industry, proudly supporting breweries, wineries, distilleries, cideries, and storefronts with premium supplies and ingredients since 1847. With over 175 years of expertise, Rahr combines tradition with innovation to meet the evolving needs of our customers and the craft beverage community.
Headquartered in Shakopee, MN, Rahr Corporation is a fifth-generation family business. We are committed to providing the highest quality products and services to our customers, ensuring they can create beverages that inspire and delight. Our offerings include an extensive range of barley malts, hops, adjuncts, and other brewing essentials, designed to support beverage makers of all sizes and styles.
At Rahr, we value quality, innovation, and collaboration. We’re passionate about crafting excellence and fostering the growth of the craft beverage industry while upholding our family-owned values and commitment to sustainability. Join us and become part of a legacy dedicated to supporting the artistry and success of beverage makers worldwide.
