What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Distiller / Farm Hand position at Pathfinder Farm Distillery?
About Us:
Pathfinder Farm Distillery is a small, family-owned farm and distillery in Keedysville, MD. We’re a creative and collaborative team with a customer-centric approach. Our goal is simple: Turn Sunshine into Moonshine.
Our work environment includes:
- A relaxed atmosphere
- Casual work attire
- On-the-job training
- Company perks (discounts on moonshine)
- Flexible working hours
- A safe and lively work environment
- Growth opportunities
- Variety in daily tasks — no two days are the same!
Job Overview:
We’re looking for weekend help at the distillery with mashing, fermenting, distilling, and feeding the beef cattle. Our primary distiller and farm hand work Monday through Friday, so we need someone to assist with keeping production going on the farm and ensuring the animals are fed. You’ll also have the opportunity to join our sales team as a "Shine Slinger" to sell our products at farmers' markets and special events.
Farm Hand Responsibilities:
- Feed and care for cattle and chickens.
- Operate farm machinery (tractors, grinders, etc.).
- Weigh, grind, and prepare grains for distillation.
- Occasional farm chores like tend to crops, and maintain farm property (including weeding, cutting grass, and repairing fences).
Distillery Responsibilities:
- Mash, ferment, distill, and gauge spirits.
- Maintain clean and organized distillery spaces.
- Assist the distiller with day-to-day production tasks.
- Monitor and record fermentation and distillation processes to ensure quality control.
- Clean tanks, equipment and distillery.
- Keep written records of distillery production.
"Shine Slinger" Responsibilities (if desired):
- Represent Pathfinder Farm Distillery at farmers' markets and other events (weekends and some evenings).
- Set up tents and provide product samples.
- Sell whiskey and fruit-infused moonshine and enter sales transactions.
- Drive company vehicle or personal vehicle to events (mileage reimbursement included).
- Earn commissions based on sales.
Qualifications
- Mechanical knowledge and experience in manufacturing processes
- Proficiency in tractor front end loader operation
- Understanding of brewing techniques and craft beer/spirits production
- Familiarity with sanitation practices, HACCP, and CGMP standards
- Background in the food industry with a focus on food safety
- Experience in packaging and warehouse operations
- Hands-on farming experience is a plus
- Able to lift 50 lbs to shoulder height
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $15.00 - $16.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Retirement plan
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Weekends as needed
Work Location: In person
Salary : $15 - $16
