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Internship Distillery Chemist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Associate Chemist

Louisville, KY · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Our ambitious growth trajectory includes a new whiskey distillery in Shelbyville, KY, slated for ... Internship, co-op, and undergraduate research experience will be considered. * Hands-on experience ...

Associate Chemist

Louisville, KY

$23.25 - $30.75/hr

Our ambitious growth trajectory includes a new whiskey distillery in Shelbyville, KY, slated for ... Internship, co-op, and undergraduate research experience will be considered. * Hands-on experience ...

... distillation, and other standard laboratory procedures. * Operate, troubleshoot, calibrate ... Provide technical training and guidance to laboratory staff, interns, contractors, and MassDEP ...

Internship Distillery Chemist information

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$18

$31

$49

How much do internship distillery chemist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship distillery chemist in the United States is $31.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.76 and $36.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an internship distillery chemist do?

An Internship Distillery Chemist assists in the chemical analysis and quality control of spirits during the distillation process. They work under the supervision of experienced chemists, learning to test raw materials, monitor fermentation, and ensure the final product meets safety and quality standards. This role often involves laboratory testing, data collection, and collaborating with production teams to troubleshoot issues. Interns gain hands-on experience with analytical instruments and learn about the science behind spirit production.

What types of projects or tasks might an internship distillery chemist work on during their placement?

As an Internship Distillery Chemist, you can expect to be involved in a range of hands-on laboratory and production support tasks. Typical responsibilities may include assisting with quality control testing, analyzing raw materials and final products, monitoring fermentation and distillation processes, and collecting and interpreting data related to product composition. Interns often collaborate with senior chemists and production teams to troubleshoot issues, ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards, and contribute to process improvements. This role provides a valuable opportunity to gain practical experience in both analytical chemistry and the unique aspects of the distillation industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an internship distillery chemist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Internship Distillery Chemist, you need a foundational knowledge of chemistry, laboratory techniques, and quality control, generally supported by coursework or a degree in chemistry or a related field. Familiarity with analytical instruments such as gas chromatographs, spectrophotometers, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is typically expected. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills make candidates stand out in this role. These competencies are crucial to ensuring product quality, regulatory compliance, and successful collaboration within the distillery team.
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Infographic showing various Internship Distillery Chemist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,525 per year, or $31.5 per hour.

Associate Chemist

IJW Whiskey Company

Louisville, KY • On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

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.