Quality Assurance Laboratory Technician at CITIZEN CIDER LLC – Burlington, Vermont

Job title: Quality Assurance Laboratory Technician

Department: Research and Development

FLSA Classification: Non-exempt

Salary or Wage Range/Level

Level 4

Reports to: Operations Manager

Date: 3/20/2026

Job Description

Summary/objective

The Quality Assurance Laboratory Technician is responsible for assisting in the analysis of raw materials, in-process cider, and finished cider at all steps in the cider making and packaging process, including sensory analysis of cider and raw materials

Duties/Responsibilities

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

• Complete daily sugar analysis on fermenting tanks (Y15 / Hydrometer)
• assist on packaging line between checks
• Adjust fermentation temperatures as needed to maintain packaging schedule
• Complete daily sensory checks on fermenting tanks, tanks to be filtered, and brite tanks
• Work with QA manager to take corrective action on any tanks with sensory faults
• Complete analysis of sulfite levels on post cross-flowed cider and finished products
• Work with cellar and production coordinators to plan filter and cider movements to best suit business needs
• Work with QA manager to implement and maintain quality systems
• Assist in quality trainings
• GMPs
• Sensory
• OJT Audits
• Yeast and mold plating of sterile filtered products
• Analysis of incoming sweet juice to determine appropriate additions of nutrients pre-fermentation
• Assist QA manager and R&D with specialty projects as necessary
• Training staff for lab coverage

Supervisory responsibilities

None

Work environment

Will be expected to work throughout each of our manufacturing sites with varying temperatures ranges, wet environments as well as potentially loud equipment.

Physical demand

• Must be able to lift 50 pounds
• Will be required to climb, crouch, bend and navigate obstacles including slippery surfaces

Travel required

• Occasional off-site training

Affirmative Action/EEO statement

Citizen Cider embraces and is committed to diversity and equal opportunity. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are as a team, the better our product can be for the people by the people.

Other duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to think critically and adapt.
• Strong leadership skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Must be self-motivated and work independently

Required education and experience

• Previous lab experience.
• Preferred education and experience
• experience in a food manufacturing environment