Distillery Team Lead

IJW Whiskey Company, LLC•Shelbyville, KY

2d•Onsite

About The Position

IJW Whiskey Company, LLC (IJW) is a dynamic, fully integrated spirits company. Founded in 2017, we’ve compiled the largest independent library of aged Kentucky bourbon and rye and established a global presence including offices in Beverly Hills, Louisville and Tokyo, Japan, a 40-acre campus in Danville. Our ambitious growth trajectory includes a new whiskey distillery in Shelbyville, KY, slated for completion in early 2026, and a Japanese distillery in Chitose that that will be completed in late 2026. With over 100 years of combined industry expertise, our diverse team of seasoned professionals and dynamic newcomers has propelled IJW to the forefront of the spirits industry. Our strategic partnership with one of the nation's largest independent Wine & Spirits distributors has enabled us to offer 22 products across four unique private label bourbon brands in 28 states. We have added to our spirits portfolio with our first Tequila and Mezcal brands. Position Overview: The Distillery Team Lead will assist in overseeing day-to-day distillery operations, supporting the Distillery Supervisor in managing production processes, and leading a team of operators. The Team Lead will help ensure consistent product quality, safe equipment operation, and a well-organized environment. This role requires hands-on leadership, task delegation, and contributing to process improvements.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED required.
Minimum 2 years of relevant experience in a manufacturing or distillery environment.
Experience leading a team.
Strong mechanical aptitude, with attention to detail and organizational skills.
Effective communication and team leadership abilities.
Must be at least 21 years of age.

Nice To Haves

2 years of college or technical training preferred.

Responsibilities

Oversee the execution of the daily production plan, ensuring efficient operations and high standards of safety, quality, and compliance.
Operate and monitor distillery equipment, conducting routine checks, troubleshooting, and ensuring smooth operational flow.
Assist in planning daily and weekly production activities, assigning tasks to distillery operators, and ensuring all tasks are completed on time and to standard.
Train and support distillery operators, fostering skill development and helping resolve any issues that arise during production.
Enforce adherence to all safety protocols, GMPs (Good Manufacturing Practices), and quality control standards. Maintain a clean, organized workspace.
Oversee raw material handling, inventory control, and accurate record-keeping of production data.
Actively participate in identifying and implementing process improvements to increase operational efficiency and reduce costs.
Work closely with other departments to coordinate production and ensure seamless operations.
Perform other duties as assigned by distillery leadership, including nights, weekends and overtime work.