Quality Assurance (QA) Analyst - Microbiology

Deschutes Brewery • Bend, OR

4d

About The Position

Deschutes Brewery is seeking a Quality Assurance Analyst specializing in microbiology to support product quality, data integrity, and compliance with brewery protocols and food safety requirements. The position performs routine microbiological testing, interprets results, troubleshoots laboratory and production issues, and supports investigations into unexpected findings and potential contamination. The successful candidate will work independently as well as collaboratively with QA colleagues and production teams, applying scientific judgment and attention to detail. On-the-job training will be provided in brewery-specific microbiology methods, production processes, and specialized sampling practices. Limited support for routine analytical laboratory activities may also be assigned based on training and business demands.

The role is part of the Deschutes Brewery Quality Assurance team and operates in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. The position follows a Monday–Friday schedule of five 8-hour shifts, starting at 8:00 a.m. Base wages start at $27.77 per hour depending on experience and education, with a career path up to $32.81 per hour for employees who complete the training program and have several years of departmental experience.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology, Biology, Fermentation Science, or a closely related scientific discipline.
• Proficiency in fundamental microbiological laboratory practices, including aseptic technique, microscopy, staining, and microbial cultivation.
• Foundational knowledge of bacterial physiology and biochemistry.
• Understanding of laboratory documentation, data integrity, good laboratory practices, and applicable safety requirements.
• Ability to prepare technical reports and contribute to SOP development and revision.
• Strong analytical and practical problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Effective time management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage assigned work with limited supervision.
• Ability to walk, stand, and sit, and lift up to 35 pounds.

Nice To Haves

• Relevant experience, training, or education in microbiology, environmental monitoring, brewing, or food science.
• Familiarity with beverage production and packaging processes.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine microbiological testing using appropriate aseptic techniques and laboratory methods.
• Conduct bright-field microscopy, staining, microbial cultivation, incubation, and other microbiological examinations.
• Perform microbial enumeration and bioburden testing using methods such as membrane filtration, pour plating, and tube fermentation, and interpret results.
• Support rapid microbial detection testing using biochemical methods such as ATP and nucleic acid amplification techniques such as qPCR, as applicable.
• Prepare and handle laboratory media, reagents, and supplies for assigned testing activities.
• Review and interpret microbiological results, document observations, and identify unexpected findings or potential anomalies.
• Maintain accurate, traceable laboratory records and a clean, organized, and safe working environment.
• Troubleshoot routine laboratory issues using scientific reasoning and systematic problem-solving.
• Identify potential contamination sources and support investigations into unexpected results, nonconformances, and corrective actions.
• Identify deviations in test results, procedures, or equipment performance and determine when further investigation or escalation is warranted.
• Follow applicable SOPs, laboratory safety practices, and quality system requirements; maintain accurate training records and support data integrity.
• Assist in developing, reviewing, and updating laboratory procedures, training materials, and related documentation.
• Support laboratory inventory management, reagent availability, equipment care, routine maintenance, and related recordkeeping.
• Communicate laboratory findings and significant quality concerns to QA leadership and relevant operational stakeholders.
• Coordinate testing activities to support quality objectives and production priorities.
• Provide limited support for routine analytical laboratory activities based on training and demonstrated competency.
• Contribute to brewery initiatives and goals and perform other related laboratory and quality assurance duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) match of 4%, vested immediately.
• Two weeks of paid vacation, one week of sick leave, and paid holidays.
• On-demand pay through DailyPay.
• Employee stock ownership.
• Pro deals with local companies.
• Discounts on Deschutes Brewery and Boneyard Beer merchandise, packaged beer, and kegs.
• Free beer for employees aged 21 and older.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level