CINCINNATI — Think your love of local beer and homebrewing experience qualifies you for the job of head brewer at Listermann Brewing Co.?
Jason Brewer says think again.
“Everyone wants to be a brewer, but nobody actually knows what being a commercial craft brewer entails,” said Brewer, who handles sales and distribution for the 25-year-old company.
Listermann announced this week it is looking for a qualified candidate to replace head brewer Patrick Gilroy, who is leaving the company for another job outside of the beer business. Gilroy has been in charge of everything from production schedules to recipe development to brewing for the past three years. He worked under another former Listermann head brewer, Kevin Moreland, for almost two years before being promoted.
“From grain to glass, you are in charge of all of that,” Brewer said of the head brewer position. “It’s not like you can just dump anybody back there. We are known for unique beers, never making a whole lot of the same beer. That person (the head brewer) has to be comfortable with a wide range of styles.”
Listermann’s head brewer is also often the public-facing spokesman for the brewery, working with a variety of organizations for commemorative brews and cross-promotion. For example, this past spring Gilroy developed a limited-edition beer for ArtsWave’s “Toast to the Arts” fundraising campaign.
Brewer said many people do not understand the scope of responsibility and need for creativity the position demands.
“I am sure there are a lot of great homebrewers, but very few who could come back here and just get started,” Brewer said.
The brewery already has a few candidates in mind to interview for the position, including current assistant brewer Kurt Listermann. The company recommends anyone who thinks they have what it takes for the job to email resumes to Brewer at jason@listermannbrewing.com.
“It’s probably one of the most demanding brewing jobs in the city,” he said.
Still, he understands why a lot of people would be tempted to apply for the job. Despite all the demands put on a commercial head brewer, making beer all day is a lot of fun.
“No two days are the same,” Brewer said. “I’ve been here four years and that’s why I am still here. It’s impossible to get bored. You work your butt off all day and at the end of the day you get to enjoy a cold version of your product.”
Listermann's Anniversary Party
What better way to celebrate 25 years of business than with beer and food? There is no better way if you are Listermann Brewing Co., which started selling and making home brew parts in 1991 before becoming a commercial craft brewer. Listermann is throwing multiple parties to celebrate, culminating with a big party at the Listermann taproom and bar starting at 10 a.m. Saturday. For information about all the events scheduled, visit Listermann’s Facebook page.
