Quality Technologist

Downeast Cider House • Boston, MA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

As a Quality Technologist at Downeast, you are the guardian of our liquid. You’ll be on the front lines, ensuring every drop of cider meets our high standards for quality, consistency, and food safety. Our production runs at a breakneck pace, and you provide the essential data and testing—from spec verification to microplating—that keeps us from ever compromising on the product. We’re looking for a detail-oriented "science person" who isn't afraid to get their hands dirty on a production floor. Success in this role means evolving from a learner to a leader; we expect you to master our QA processes within 30 days and start driving lab experiments and process improvements by your 90-day mark.

Requirements

• Hands-on experience with basic lab equipment, pH testing, and density measurements.
• Exceptional organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple testing streams at once.
• Ability to share technical data clearly with non-technical teams.
• A "whatever it takes" attitude and a desire to grow within a high-performance team.

Nice To Haves

• A Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Biology, Chemistry, or Engineering.
• 1+ year of quality experience in a manufacturing setting (bonus points for beverage/fermentation).
• Experience with sensory testing and basic statistics.
• A background in microbiology.

Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate, detailed, and organized records of all formulations, experiments, and test data.
• Perform daily testing on all liquid production, including spec verification, product profile checks, and benchtop mixing.
• Execute sterile sampling and microplating for raw materials, blends, and finished products to ensure everything is clean and safe.
• Lead sensory evaluations (yes, tasting the cider) and monitor shelf-life testing to ensure it stays fresh from the tank to the glass.
• Perform regular packaging checks and assist with data collection for specialized Quality and Production projects.
• Take full ownership of laboratory equipment maintenance and general upkeep.

Benefits

• 16 PTO days in your first year
• Paid holidays, sick days, and bereavement leave
• Paid parental leave
• 401(k) with company match
• Health & dental insurance from day one
• Company-provided short-term disability coverage
• Cider allowance

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree