Distillery Internships Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

IJW Whiskey Company, LLC (IJW) is a dynamic, fully integrated spirits company. Founded in 2017, we’ve compiled the largest independent library of aged Kentucky bourbon and rye and established a global presence including offices in Beverly Hills, Louisville and Tokyo, Japan, a 40-acre campus in Danville. Our ambitious growth trajectory includes a new whiskey distillery in Shelbyville, KY, slated for completion in early 2026, and a Japanese distillery in Chitose that that will be completed in late 2026.

With over 100 years of combined industry expertise, our diverse team of seasoned professionals and dynamic newcomers has propelled IJW to the forefront of the spirits industry. Our strategic partnership with one of the nation's largest independent Wine & Spirits distributors has enabled us to offer 22 products across four unique private label bourbon brands in 28 states. We have added to our spirits portfolio with our first Tequila and Mezcal brands.

Position Summary

The Associate Chemist supports research and development activities for alcoholic beverage products through analytical testing, sensory evaluation, method execution, and laboratory support. This role is responsible for generating accurate and reliable data to support product development, quality assessment, process optimization, and innovation initiatives. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with R&D, production teams, and quality control while maintaining high standards of laboratory safety, data integrity, and scientific rigor.

Key Responsibilities
Analytical Testing & Laboratory Operations

• Conduct analyses of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished beverage products.
• Operate and maintain analytical instrumentation including:
• High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)
• Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS)
• Density Meter/Alcohol Analyzer (DMA)
• Other standard laboratory equipment
• Prepare samples, reagents, standards, and calibration solutions according to established methods and SOPs.
• Accurately record, analyze, and report test results.
• Maintain laboratory equipment through routine cleaning, calibration, verification, and preventive maintenance activities.
• Assist with method development, verification, validation, and documentation as required.
  

Sensory Evaluation

• Organize and conduct sensory testing, including sample preparation, data collection, and reporting.
• Oversee the training and monitoring of sensory panels for all IJW sites. 
  

Research & Development Support

• Support product development, formulation, and process improvement projects through sample prep, testing, and data generation.
• Assist with experimental trials, pilot-scale evaluations, and product benchmarking activities.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives for laboratory methods and workflows.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Food Science, or a related scientific discipline.
• 1–3 years of laboratory experience in the beverage, food, fermentation, pharmaceutical, consumer products, or a related industry. Internship, co-op, and undergraduate research experience will be considered.
• Hands-on experience with analytical instrumentation such as HPLC, GC-MS, and DMA, including sample preparation, calibration, testing, and basic method development.
• Working knowledge of analytical chemistry principles, laboratory techniques, and safe chemical-handling practices.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, as well as chromatography data systems or statistical analysis software.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, organizational, time-management, and communication skills, with excellent attention to detail.
  
• Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively within a cross-functional team.
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in alcoholic beverages, brewing, distilling, wine, spirits, or fermentation science.
• Knowledge of sensory evaluation, sensory science, or beverage flavour chemistry.
• Experience supporting product development or innovation projects.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods in a laboratory environment.
• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs (14 kg).
• Ability to safely operate laboratory equipment and handle chemicals in accordance with established safety procedures.