R&D Brewing Co-op at Sam Adams Boston Brewery

About the Role

We're looking for a motivated and hands-on Co-op to join our Research & Development Brewery team, supporting brewing operations, sanitation programs, and innovation projects. This program offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in brewing, fermentation science, quality systems, and process improvement within a pilot-scale R&D brewing environment. Working alongside brewing and quality professionals, you'll contribute to daily brewery operations, support product development initiatives, and help bring innovative products from concept to execution while developing a strong technical foundation in brewing science.

This is a full-time, on-site position 6:30 am – 2:30 pm Monday through Friday at our Boston Brewery location in Jamaica Plain, MA. This position is a part of our 6-month Co-op Program, running from January 4, 2027 through June 25, 2027.

Key Responsibilities

Brewery Operations

• Assist in daily R&D brewery operations, supporting brewing, fermentation, and production activities.
• Package samples and finished products for evaluation, testing, and internal review.
• Support brewing and innovation projects through routine operational activities and project work.

Sanitation & Process Management

• Uphold overall cleanliness and sanitation of the brewery, including cleaning and sanitizing tanks and brewing equipment.
• Update, maintain, and develop Clean-in-Place (CIP) and cleaning procedures for process equipment.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), and brewery sanitation requirements.

Data Collection & Continuous Improvement

• Collect, compile, and organize operational and project-related data.
• Support process improvement initiatives by documenting observations and analyzing operational results.
• Assist with brewing documentation and technical procedure updates.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Brewing Science, Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Must continue to be enrolled in school upon the completion of the co-op.
• Must be 21 years of age or older. 
• Understanding of brewery safety practices, including proper PPE usage, equipment management, and chemical handling procedures.
• Familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and brewery sanitation principles.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Self-motivated and capable of working independently as well as collaboratively within a team environment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining a safe and organized workplace.

Preferred Qualifications

• Basic competency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
• Experience with Power BI is a plus.
• Prior experience in manufacturing, laboratory environments, kitchens/restaurants, or large team-based settings such as clubs and organizations.
• Interest in brewing, fermentation science, quality systems, and continuous improvement.

What You'll Gain

• Hands-on experience in brewing operations and a deeper understanding of brewing science, fermentation processes, and quality systems.
• Exposure to the day-to-day operations of an R&D brewery and the role it plays in product innovation and commercialization.
• Opportunities to participate in experimental design, brewing trials, and process improvement initiatives.
• Experience developing, revising, and implementing brewery procedures and sanitation programs.
• Practical training in brewery operations, equipment cleaning, CIP systems, safety practices, and quality standards.
• Exposure to data collection, analysis, and technical documentation to support brewing and innovation projects.
• Mentorship and coaching from brewing and quality team members throughout the co-op experience.
• The opportunity to complete a special project, typically involving the development, formulation, and brewing of a unique recipe, with support from the brewing and quality teams.
• Exposure to cross-functional collaboration with teams involved in brewing, quality, research, and product development.