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.

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 safe 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.

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

$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

Birthday off with pay

Annual performance-based salary increases

AwardCo employee recognition & reward program

Perkopolis membership

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 in office employee taproom

Community gardens at our Calgary brewery

Employee-centric culture with regular social events and team celebrations

Opportunities for professional growth and career development

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📌 Laboratory Technician (Alberta)
🏢 Rise People
📍 Alberta