Microbiologist

Role Title: Microbiologist Department: Brewery Quality Operations Reports To: Head Brewer Location: Geist Brewing Co, Old Madras Road, Bengaluru Employment Type: Full-TimeRole Summary The Microbiologist plays a key role in maintaining the microbiological integrity and quality of all products brewed at the brewery. This position ensures that every batch of beer reflects the brewery’s craft standards while meeting regulatory and safety requirements. The Microbiologist will monitor yeast health, detect and prevent contamination, and support brewing innovation through scientific testing and process hygiene control.Key Responsibilities 1. Microbiological Quality Assurance Performroutine microbiological testingon raw materials, wort, beer, yeast, and packaging samples to detect unwanted microorganisms. Identify and quantify yeast and bacterial populations using plating, microscopy, and other relevant methods. Conductcontamination screeningat critical control points throughout the brewing and packaging processes. 2. Yeast Management & Fermentation Health Monitoryeast vitality, viability, and flocculation behaviourto ensure optimal fermentation. Maintain yeast propagation and storage cultures in aseptic conditions. Provide recommendations to the brewing team on yeast reuse, pitching rates, and contamination control. 3. Process Hygiene & Sanitation Verification Conductenvironmental and surface swab teststo verify cleanliness and sanitation efficiency. ValidateCIP (Clean-in-Place)andSIP (Sterilize-in-Place)processes. Work closely with brewers to establishmicrobiological best practicesacross tanks, lines, and cellars. 4. Product Quality & Stability Support sensory and analytical teams by correlating microbiological results withflavor stability, haze formation, and shelf life . Investigate any deviations in taste, aroma, or appearance due to microbial factors. Participate inroot cause analysisfor any off-flavor or spoilage incidents. 5. Documentation & Compliance Maintain accurate and traceable laboratory records, logs, and digital reports. Prepare microbiological trend analyses for management review. Ensure compliance withFSSAI ,ISO 22000 , and other relevant quality and safety standards. 6. Continuous Improvement & Innovation Collaborate with brewers onnew recipe trialsby evaluating yeast performance and fermentation profiles. Research and recommend improvements tomicrobiological testing protocolsand lab techniques. Train brewery staff on hygiene, sampling, and contamination prevention.QualificationsEducation: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree inMicrobiology, Brewing Science, Biotechnology, or Biochemistry . Experience: 2–6 years of experience in abrewery, beverage, or fermentation-based industry(craft brewing experience preferred). Hands-on experience withyeast management, microbial testing, and hygiene validation . Technical Knowledge: Proficiency in aseptic techniques, plating, and microscopy. Understanding of brewing microbiota Knowledge ofbeer chemistry, fermentation kinetics, and sensory impactsof microbial activity. Familiarity withsystems , data recording, and quality documentation. Competencies & Attributes Strong attention to detail and analytical thinking Passion for craft beer and fermentation science Excellent teamwork and communication skills Commitment to hygiene, precision, and consistency Problem-solving and innovation-driven mindset Work Environment Primarily lab-based with frequent interaction on the brewery floor. Strict adherence to PPE and safety procedures. Work Schedule Full-time, typically day shifts but may include early mornings or weekends during production peaks or audits.