A LITTLE BIT ABOUT US…

In 1985, Ed McNally founded Big Rock Brewery Inc. (“Big Rock”) to challenge the beer trends of the time. Three bold, European-inspired offerings forged an industry during an era dominated by easy-drinking lagers and light-on-flavour beers. Today, our extensive portfolio of signature beers, seasonal offerings, ciders (Rock Creek Cider® series), hard teas, and custom-crafted private label products keep us at the forefront of the craft beer revolution—still proudly contesting beer trends and delivering flavour-forward beverages.

SUMMARY

Big Rock has an exciting opportunity for a Lab Technician to join our Calgary-based Food Safety Quality Assurance team. Reporting to the Manager, Quality Systems & Food Safety, the Lab Technician will perform routine sampling and analyses of raw brewing materials, packaging materials, environmental samples, on-line quality and food safety checks, in-process/finished beer, and GMP Inspections. This includes both quantitative and qualitative testing to ensure our products meet Big Rock Brewery’s quality legal and food safety specifications.

RESPONSIBILTIIES

Laboratory Equipment Use & Maintenance

- Operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot UV-spectrophotometers, pH meters, dissolved oxygen meters, CO₂ analyzers, density/alcohol analyzers, TPO analyzers, autoclaves, distillation apparatus, thermometers, incubators, conductivity meters, and other lab instruments.

Safe Chemical Handling & Testing
- Safely dilute, handle, and dispose of a wide array of chemicals.
- Follow and interpret MSDS documents.
- Use fume hoods for secure chemical reactions and proper PPE at all times.

Microbiological Testing
- Prepare media and broths for bacteriological analysis.




- Collect sterile samples (beer, air, water, environmental) using safe sanitization techniques.
- Maintain and use lab glassware, microscopes, and autoclaves effectively.

Physical Product Testing
- Use precision tools (micrometers, calipers, torque wrenches) for measurements.
- Conduct can seam checks and CO₂ testing.
- Follow safety protocols for hearing, eye, hand, and foot protection.

Operational & Reporting Duties
- Monitor and maintain high-pressure steam generators and boiler chemicals.
- Build and maintain statistical spreadsheets, reporting results to supervisors and other departments.
- Participate in sensory panels to assess taste, aroma, colour, and mouthfeel.
- Contribute to the onsite BRC, GMP and HACCP food safety program.
- Develop, review, and update procedures related to laboratory analysis, GMP, HACCP, and other applicable regulatory standards.
- Ensure compliance with GMP and food safety policies across production, operational, and storage areas.
- Perform additional food safety, quality assurance, and compliance-related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS Education & Experience

- Completion of the first phase of a Chemical Laboratory Technology Program or Bachelor’s degree in a food science discipline.




- 2+ years industry experience in a brewery or food & beverage production quality lab preferred.

Skills & Competencies
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with strong task prioritization.
- Excellent relationship-building and communication skills (both verbal and written).
- Ability to present complex technical concepts clearly.
- Proactive problem-solver with process improvement mindset.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Flexible, adaptable, and able to work both independently and in a team setting.

Role Requirements
- Manual movement of chemical drums and beer kegs on a regular basis.
- Occasional lifting to 35 kg.
- Frequent standing, bending, and brief exposure to high temperatures in the boiler room.

PERKS & BENEFITS

- 100% employer-paid comprehensive Health & Dental benefits
- $1,000 annually toward your Health Spending Account (HSA) and Personal Spending Account (PSA)
- RRSP matching program starting at 4.5% for all employees
- Company TFSA program
- $600 annual Beer Spending Account
- Birthday off with pay
- Annual performance-based salary increases
- AwardCo employee recognition & reward program
- Perkopolis membership
- 30% discount on GoodLife Fitness memberships (no enrollment fee)
- Up to $5,000 lifetime fertility treatment benefit
- Annual safety boot allowance (eligible positions)
- Free on-site parking
- Casual dress code
- Employee discounts at our brewery restaurant
- Access to our on-site employee taproom
- Community gardens at our Calgary brewery
- Weekly Beer O'Clock socials
- Employee-centric culture with regular social events and team celebrations
- Opportunities for professional growth and career development

📌 Laboratory Technician (Calgary)
🏢 Big Rock Brewery
📍 Calgary