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Fermentation Science Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Brewer OR

Portland, OR · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

... fermentation monitoring, cellaring, packaging, all cleaning and CIPs, and ensuring all quality ... Certification or degree in brewing science or brewing related field and/or degree/coursework from a ...

Fermentation Science information

See Portland, OR salary details

$48.8K

$87.7K

$127.8K

How much do fermentation science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for fermentation science in Portland, OR is $87,659.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,200.00 and $100,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is fermentation science?

A Fermentation Science job involves studying, optimizing, and applying microbial processes to produce food, beverages, biofuels, and pharmaceuticals. Professionals in this field work in industries like brewing, dairy, biotechnology, and medicine, focusing on fermentation techniques, quality control, and product development. They may also conduct research to improve fermentation efficiency and sustainability. Jobs can range from laboratory research and production management to regulatory roles ensuring safety and compliance.

What does a fermentation scientist do?

A typical day in Fermentation Science often involves monitoring ongoing fermentations, running laboratory analyses, troubleshooting process issues, and maintaining detailed records of experiments or production batches. Professionals frequently collaborate with quality assurance teams, production staff, and sometimes research and development departments to optimize products or processes. It's common to split time between hands-on laboratory or production floor work and desk-based tasks like data analysis and reporting. The work environment is dynamic and requires adaptability to shifting priorities and production demands, making strong communication and organizational skills crucial for success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in fermentation science?

A successful career in Fermentation Science typically requires a solid background in biology, chemistry, and microbiology, usually with a relevant degree such as fermentation science, food science, or microbiology. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, fermentation monitoring software, and adherence to safety protocols and quality standards is highly valued, and certifications like HACCP can be beneficial. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork and communication skills are essential soft skills in this field. These skills enable professionals to efficiently manage complex fermentation processes, ensure product quality, and contribute to innovation in food, beverage, or bio-industrial settings.

How do you become a fermentation scientist?

To become a fermentation scientist, typically a bachelor's degree in microbiology, biochemistry, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's or Ph.D. for advanced roles. Gaining experience with fermentation processes, laboratory skills, and knowledge of microbial cultures and bioreactors is essential, along with familiarity with analytical tools and safety protocols.

How much do fermentation science professionals make?

Fermentation science professionals' salaries vary based on experience, education, and location, but entry-level positions typically start around $40,000 to $50,000 annually. With experience and specialized skills, such as brewing or microbiology expertise, salaries can increase to $70,000 or more. Many roles also offer opportunities for advancement into research, quality control, or management positions.

What can you do with a fermentation science degree?

A fermentation science degree prepares individuals for careers in brewing, winemaking, distilling, and food fermentation industries. Graduates can work as brewers, quality control specialists, product development scientists, or fermentation technicians, often utilizing laboratory skills and knowledge of microbiology and chemistry. Certification and hands-on experience can enhance job prospects in this field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Fermentation Science jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Fermentation Science jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Fermentation Science jobs in Portland, OR?

For Fermentation Science jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fermentation Science jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Fermentation Science jobs in Portland, OR are:

Infographic showing various Fermentation Science job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 74% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,659 per year, or $42.1 per hour.

Brewer OR

Portland, OR • On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Brewer Position Summary: 

The Brewer will be a member of Von Ebert Brewing's brewing team. The brewer will be trained and scheduled to work at all Von Ebert brewery facilities. All locations provide beer to our pubs and taprooms, as well as to distribution in draft and packaged formats. The Brewer is responsible for the entire beer making process, including but not limited to raw material handling, brew day operations, fermentation monitoring, cellaring, packaging, all cleaning and CIPs, and ensuring all quality standards are met throughout every process. The Brewer should be ultra-passionate about craft brewing, self-motivated to further their knowledge and problem solve, and bring a fun and inspiring attitude to the team!

Brewer Duties and Responsibilities: 

This job description is intended to describe the general level of work being performed; it is not intended to be all-inclusive. The duties of this position may change from time to time. Von Ebert Brewing reserves the right to add or delete duties and responsibilities.

Brewery

  • Wort production.
  • Brewhouse CIP.
  • Raw material and spent grain handling.
  • Recipe formulation.

Cellar

  • FV and BBT CIP.
  • Dry hopping, fining, transfers, tank purges.
  • Keg washing.

Distribution and Logistics

  • Work with Logistics Lead to facilitate coordination with our supplier and distribution partners.
  • This includes but is not limited to keg washing, keg filling, loading and unloading trucks, and occasional driving of company van or box truck for deliveries.

Inventory

  • Ensure correct inventory levels are maintained for all raw materials and finished goods.
  • Work with Lead Brewer and Director of Brewing Operations to identify and address any inventory issues in a timely manner.

Maintenance

  • Maintain brewery building and equipment using proper operating, preventative maintenance and cleaning/sanitation procedures.
  • Proactively maintains and manages all repair and maintenance issues, ensuring the brewery is kept in “like new” condition.

Miscellaneous

  • Special projects and responsibilities may be assigned, based on the needs, skills, and goals of the Brewer.
  • Ensure all safety and security policies and procedures are followed, regular safety training is conducted and address all safety hazards immediately.
  • Participates in informative, focused weekly meetings with other brewing staff.
  • Build positive, professional relationships with all brewing staff, ensuring positive morale and providing a fun work environment.
  • Build positive, professional relationships with all taproom and restaurant staff, ensuring positive morale and providing a fun work environment.

Knowledge and Skill Requirements:

Experience

  • Minimum of two years of brewing industry experience required.
  • Experience and passion for a wide variety of beer styles is required.

Traits We Look For

  • Candidates must be highly motivated, self-directed, and results-driven, with strong organizational skills, attention to detail and professional written and verbal communication skills.
  • Possess a commitment to quality, innovation, and continuous improvement, never accepting “That's the way it's always been” as an answer.
  • The ability to troubleshoot and work independently is a requirement.

Education and Knowledge Base

  • Certification or degree in brewing science or brewing related field and/or degree/coursework from a recognized brewing school is a plus, but not required.
  • Strong technical knowledge with all aspects of the brewing process required.
  • Strong mechanical understanding of the brewing process and equipment required.
  • Strong working knowledge and experience with commonly used brewery chemicals.
  • Must possess solid skills with basic mathematical computations and have basic computer functions knowledge, including MS Office and Google Drive.
  • Forklift certified or willingness to become certified required.

Miscellaneous

  • Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends during peak business times. We strive to have a schedule that works for everyone, but sometimes there are exceptions.
  • This position requires a valid driver's license to travel between locations, a satisfactory background check, and the ability to meet the physical demands of the position detailed below.