Work at Pilot Project

Pilot Project is in constant search of hard-working team members with a taste for craft beer and creativity to add to our growing team.

As a brewery incubator in the craft beer hotbed of Logan Square, Chicago, our approach to brewing industry-defining products happens by fostering relentless experimentation of new brewing recipes, breweries, collaborations, styles, and concepts. Our mission for every guest walking into Pilot Project’s tasting room is to experience the thoughtfulness we put into our products by way of expert knowledge, an attention to detail, and impeccable customer service. 

We accomplish this by hiring spirited and dedicated individuals that embody the Pilot Project high standards and demonstrate expert knowledge of the brewing process, our craft beers, cuisine, and fellow breweries. We celebrate team members that help create a welcoming and educational environment curated to each guest’s needs and interests.

Interested candidates can email jobs@pilotprojectbrewing.com with a resume and brief explanation of why you’re the perfect fit for a job at Pilot Project Brewing.

 

Director of Operations, Milwaukee, WI

LOCATION: 1128 N 9th St, Milwaukee, WI 53233

Pilot Project Brewing is looking to bring on first and second shift packaging specialists to join our Milwaukee brewing team.

The Director of Operations, Milwaukee will oversee our 60k+ square foot beverage production facility’s day-to-day operational functions, ensuring efficient production, quality control, supply chain management, inventory, warehousing, preventative maintenance, and safety standards among all departments. This role requires strong leadership, extensive experience, an in-depth understanding of the beverage and production processes, and the ability to optimize workflows while maintaining a high product quality and service. The Director of Operations, Milwaukee will work closely with the leadership team and ownership to implement strategies for growth, profitability, and continuous improvement.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Oversee all departmental aspects of the facility, including the brewing operations, product cellaring, packaging lines, sales and distribution, warehouse logistics, CRM resources, and supporting operations to help our hospitality and events teams

  • Lead and manage cross-functional teams, ensuring that production goals, timelines, safety standards, quality benchmarks, and max efficiency in daily operations are consistently exceeded

  • Work closely with the brewing team to establish reliable preventative maintenance schedules, troubleshoot issues, solve production challenges, and maintain consistent product quality

  • Oversee raw material sourcing for production and facility vendors, inventory management, and supplier relationships to ensure adequate stock levels and timely deliveries

  • Work with procurement to optimize the cost of raw materials while maintaining quality and a high level of customer satisfaction

  • Maintain oversight on all CRM related work flows ensuring accurate and efficient data among all relevant departments

  • Work with the finance team to prepare and manage operational budgets, identifying areas to reduce costs and increase efficiency

  • Continuously evaluate and improve operational processes to increase efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance product quality

  • Ensure the facility complies with all relevant health, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards while working with local, state, and federal agencies to maintain compliance with all relevant laws and regulations

  • Develop and enforce safety policies to protect employees and ensure a safe work environment for staff, clients, vendors, and guests

  • Conduct performance reviews, provide feedback, and identify opportunities for team members’ growth and development

QUALIFICATIONS

  • experience:

    • Minimum of 10 years of experience in beverage operations or a similar manufacturing environment, with at least 3–5 years in a senior leadership role

    • Strong experience in brewing processes, production management, quality assurance, and supply chain management

    • Proven track record of managing effective teams, implementing operational improvements, and driving business results

  • Skills and Abilities:

    • Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills

    • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make data-driven decisions

    • In-depth understanding of manufacturing equipment, brewing techniques, and safety standards

    • Experience with CRM systems, EKOS a plus, production planning software, and inventory management tools

    • Strong financial acumen with experience in budget development and cost control

    • Knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations and licensing requirements

  • Physical Requirements:

    • Ability to work in a brewery, manufacturing facility, hospitality and events environment

    • Ability to lift 50 lbs and move barrels or kegs as needed

    • Flexibility to work long hours, including evenings and weekends as required

EXTRAS:

  • Healthcare, Dental, and Vision following 60 days of employment

  • 401(k) following 1 year of employment

  • PTO Package 

  • Competitive salary

Any combination of experience, education, and/or training that can be considered equivalent to the requirements of the position will be reviewed to assess candidacy.