Distillery Quality Control Specialist

IJW Whiskey Company, LLC (IJW) is a dynamic and fully integrated spirits company founded in 2017, cultivating one of the industry’s largest independent libraries of aged Kentucky bourbon and rye. The organization boasts a significant global footprint, with offices located in Beverly Hills, Louisville, and Tokyo, Japan, as well as managing a sprawling 40-acre campus in Danville. IJW’s ambitious growth plans include the development of a new whiskey distillery in Shelbyville, Kentucky, expected to be operational by early 2026, alongside a planned Japanese distillery in Chitose to be completed by late 2026. This strategic expansion underpins its commitment to quality craftsmanship and innovation in the spirits sector.

With a team of seasoned professionals and fresh talent combining over 100 years of industry expertise, IJW has quickly emerged as a leader in the spirits industry. The company's strong partnership with one of the nation’s largest independent wine and spirits distributors enables IJW to offer a diverse portfolio of 22 products across four unique private-label bourbon brands distributed throughout 28 states. IJW has recently broadened its spirit offerings with the launch of its first tequila and mezcal brands, further diversifying its growing portfolio.

The role at IJW Whiskey Company centers on maintaining stringent quality control and adherence to production specifications for all whiskey products. The position requires a hands-on professional responsible for monitoring whiskey production quality through problem-solving and objective testing techniques to ensure compliance with industry and company standards. As the primary conductor of laboratory testing, this role is critical in managing quality assurance activities, ensuring regulatory compliance with the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), and supporting operational excellence and continuous improvement. The successful candidate will coordinate analytical testing of raw materials, intermediates, and final whiskey samples throughout the distillation and production process.

Typical responsibilities involve conducting HPLC analysis of mash and beer, performing accurate and timely qualitative and quantitative analysis of raw materials and production samples, maintaining process control charts, troubleshooting quality concerns in partnership with operations, and leading quality root cause corrective action programs. Strong documentation skills and the ability to communicate findings to management are essential. This position also requires routine maintenance and calibration of laboratory and production equipment to meet compliance standards.

Beyond technical responsibilities, the role emphasizes participation and leadership in sensory and quality system audits, training employees on quality standards, and enforcing hygiene and sanitation protocols. The ability to work safely in an industrial setting — including exposure to alcohol fumes, grain dust, and temperature variations — is vital. Candidates should be prepared to assist in other production areas as needed, covering shifts within distillery, bottling, or processing operations as required.

This position is ideal for candidates who have a solid foundation in chemistry, microbiology, or chemical engineering and possess strong analytical skills, laboratory experience, and a passion for the beverage industry. The role offers an exciting opportunity to join a fast-growing, innovative spirits company focused on craftsmanship, quality, and expanding its presence domestically and internationally.