Quality Technician in Scotland

About International Beverage

International Beverage is a dynamic global drinks business. Established in 2006 as the international arm of ThaiBev, we specialise in developing distinctive, premium international brands for global growth, with a portfolio that is led by a range of high-quality, award-winning Scotch whiskies and includes some of the fastest growing and most prestigious beers, spirits and whiskies on the market today. These high-quality brands include Old Pulteney and Speyburn single malt Scotch whiskies, Hankey Bannister blended Scotch whisky, Caorunn Gin, Phraya Rum, Larsen Cognac, The Reid Vodka, Cardrona Whisky and Chang Beer.

International Beverage takes great pride in being recognised as a Great Place to Work. We’re not just crafting exceptional beverages; we’re fostering a workplace where individuals can grow, innovate, and find fulfilment in their professional journey.

About the role

As a Quality Assurance Technician, you’ll provide practical analytical support and technical assistance through routine laboratory analysis in order to maintain and enhance the spirit quality of our whisky products and efficiency of our primary production and distillery operations. The role performs analytical methods such as GC and wet-chemistry techniques, creating product certificates, aiding in problem-solving, and making up spirit sample requests, all aimed at continuously improving the laboratory's technical capabilities and supporting customer requirements. This role also involves supporting wider quality assurance activities including conducting internal audits and creating, implementing, and reviewing management system procedures and processes.

What you’ll do

• Conducting routine analysis of production samples using specific test methods which includes alcohol strength, colour, turbidity and GC analysis.
• Ensure results are correct and communicated to key stakeholders in a timely and appropriate manner and that results are recorded diligently.
• Interpret results and, through effective communication with production teams, provide information on required actions and recommendations to maintain product quality, efficiency, and compliance.
• Support delivery of new product development and project work by creating representative spirit samples in line with sample requests.
• Coordinate and participate in the routine setup and sensory testing of NMS (new make spirit) and mature samples.
• Sample management support, e.g. receipting various samples in and out of the lab and update systems accordingly including completion of HMRC documentation.
• Ensure proficiency testing and due diligence analysis is carried out.
• Ensure maintenance is carried out on laboratory instrumentation to agreed timescales to ensure accuracy and consistency in analytical results.
• Support the Quality & Food Safety management systems as required including investigations into non-conformances and customer complaints.
• Contribute to writing and reviewing documents, procedures, work instructions, and risk assessments.
• Participate as a member of the internal audit team conducting internal audits of operational and management system processes.
• Work with external labs when needed to coordinate samples and results analysis.
• Administrative support, including raising and receipting PO’s, sample despatch, duty payment, and certificates of conformance and analysis.
• General lab housekeeping and health & safety.

Skills, Knowledge and Experience

• Technical and practical understanding of laboratory equipment, procedures and methods.
• You have proficient IT skills, the ability to multi-task and prioritise with strong communication and organisational skills.
• Experience working in the drinks industry and handling company products would be an advantage.

About you

• High levels of self-motivation and the ability to work independently and as part of a small technical team.
• High levels of attention to detail and ability to keep detailed, accurate records and logs.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Good levels of computer literacy, including the use of Microsoft Office and Excel.
• Excellent organisational skills.
• A knowledge of the distilling process and laboratory information systems would be an advantage.

Working Conditions

This role is laboratory based. Working pattern Monday to Friday, 37 hours per week. This role may require occasional travel within the UK and the jobholder may be required to stay away from home.

Remuneration & package

Competitive salary, 35 days’ holiday, attractive pension, health cash plan, income protection, life assurance, product allowance, early finish on Friday.

Why International Beverage

At International Beverage, we take pride in fostering a workplace culture that goes beyond the ordinary. Our commitment to employee well-being is reflected through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP), providing comprehensive support for personal and professional challenges. Enjoy the convenience of free parking and take advantage of our cycle-to-work scheme, encouraging a healthy and sustainable commute. We prioritise your health with a range of well-being initiatives and ensure our employees are valued through offering the Real Living Wage. At the heart of our corporate social responsibility, engage in meaningful charity and volunteering activities, contributing to the communities we serve. Become a brand ambassador through our exciting program, offering opportunities to travel and participate in exclusive events. Join us at International Beverage, where every day is an opportunity to make a difference, and our brand events exemplify why it's truly great to work with us. We prioritise diversity, inclusion, and respect. We are committed to cultivating a workplace where differences are celebrated, and each individual feels heard and appreciated. We believe in keeping it simple: diversity is our strength, inclusion is our culture and, respect is our foundation.