Cider Maker R&D Specialist

Cider Maker and R&D Specialist

Windfall Cider – Vancouver, BC

Windfall Cider is seeking a skilled and passionate Cider Maker and R&D Specialist to join our growing team. This role is ideal for someone with a strong foundation in fermentation, quality control, and production operations, combined with a creative approach to cider making.

As part of our urban cidery, you’ll play a key role in managing production, developing new cider styles, and helping streamline operations while maintaining the highest standards of quality. You’ll work closely with ownership to craft unique, innovative ciders that push the boundaries of what cider can be.

Responsibilities:

• Plan and schedule cider production batches
• Manage fermentation and yeast health
• Conduct sensory analysis and ensure quality control standards
• Clean and sanitize cider-making equipment and workspaces
• Operate packaging equipment, including canning, bottling, and kegging lines
• Perform CIP (clean-in-place) operations on tanks and other production equipment
• Rack, carbonate, and test saturation levels of CO2 in ciders
• Organize warehouse inventory, including stock rotation and shipments
• Research and identify grants and governmental assistance opportunities to support business growth
• Represent Windfall at industry events and meetings
• Build relationships within the craft beverage community to develop mutually beneficial collaborations
• Maintain clear and timely communication with ownership
• Manage costs effectively while optimizing margins

Qualifications:

• 2+ years of experience as a head cider, brewer, or winemaker
• Passion for craft cider and innovation in fermentation techniques
• Formal education in brewing, fermentation, or enology (preferred but not required)
• Ability to lift 25kg repeatedly and maneuver full kegs (~70kg)
• Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills for production equipment
• Flexibility to work early mornings, evenings, and weekends as needed
• Forklift certification (preferred)
• Occupational First Aid Level 1 and WHMIS Certificate (preferred)
• Serving It Right certification or willingness to obtain

Why Windfall?

At Windfall Cider, we believe in crafting exceptional, modern ciders while staying deeply connected to our community. We work closely with local farmers, experiment with both traditional and contemporary techniques, and foster a collaborative and innovative environment.

This position starts as part-time (20-35 hours per week), with the opportunity to transition into a full-time salaried role as we move into our busier seasons. We offer flexible scheduling, tasting room shifts for additional hours, and a dynamic team atmosphere where your creativity and expertise will be valued.

How to Apply:If you’re excited about the opportunity to grow with us, please send your resume and a brief cover letter to jeff@windfallcider.ca.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent

Pay: $20.00-$25.00 per hour

Additional pay:

• Bonus pay

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Flexible schedule
• Store discount

Flexible language requirement:

• French not required

Work Location: In person