Apprentice Distiller Program

Trained Distillers possess a high demand skill set that includes but is not limited to the following. Properly prepare grain for mashing process (measuring and grinding), introduce and manage enzymes during the mashing process. Conduct yeast propagation, manage fermentation and prepare mashes for distillation. Properly loading and operating a variety still types to produce distilled grain spirits. Fractional distillation methods to separate methanol, acetate, ethanol, and fusil oils. Proofing distilled spirits with a precision hydrometer to blend spirits, bring new make distillate to barrel proof for ageing, and retail proof for bottling. Properly access whiskey for clarity, content, flavor profile, viscosity, and finish. Properly clean a still, fermentation barrels, transfers pumps, and mashing equipment. Properly record all production aspects required by the Tax and Trade Bureau. Other skills gained in the course of operating distillation equipment include but are not limited to the following. Operating packaging equipment to prepare products for retail local distribution and international shipments. Forklift operations. A working knowledge of electrical components and plumbing basics with an ability to make minor repairsAn apprentice distiller intern at KO'OLAU Distillery will achieve proficiency in the above-mentioned skills. Instruction will be via a mentor/mentee method.

ABOUT THE JOB

Assistant Distiller, Packaging Operator

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Properly prepare grain for mashing process (measuring and grinding)
• Introduce and manage enzymes during the mashing process
• Conduct yeast propagation, manage fermentation and prepare mashes for distillation
• Properly load and operate a variety of still types to produce distilled grain spirits
• Use fractional distillation methods to separate methanol, acetate, ethanol, and fusil oils
• Proof distilled spirits with a precision hydrometer to blend spirits
• Bring new make distillate to barrel proof for ageing, and retail proof for bottling
• Properly assess whiskey for clarity, content, flavor profile, viscosity, and finish
• Properly clean a still, fermentation barrels, transfer pumps, and mashing equipment
• Properly record all production aspects required by the Tax and Trade Bureau
• Operate packaging equipment to prepare products for retail local distribution and international shipments
• Forklift operations
• A working knowledge of electrical components and plumbing basics with an ability to make minor repairs

QUALIFICATIONS

• Achieve proficiency in distillation and related operations
• Participation in mentor/mentee instructional method

ADDITIONAL ELIGIBILITY

No prerequisite eligibility requirements

TARGET MOCS

All MOCs

ELIGIBLE SERVICE BRANCHES

All Services

BENEFITS

• Gain high-demand distilling skills
• Opportunity to expand knowledge in distillery operations
• Potential involvement in various facets of the distillery including Laser engraving, retail sales, tasting room service, and bartending

PROGRAM COST

No cost to participate

OTHER

Ko’olau Distillery produces high-quality hand-crafted spirits and is rapidly growing to expand its product line across the various spirits and spirit affiliated merchandise. Participation in this program will provide a solid basis for Distilling knowledge and Distillery operations. If you are interested in other facets of our distillery we can place you on a track that includes our Laser engraving branch, Distillery retail Sales and operations activities, tasting room service and bartending. Duration our program can vary based on the availability of the applicant. This is a popular and competitive program please send your resume, area of interest, and availability dates along with your inquiry email. Please ask your command if they intend to allow you to participate in Skillbridge? We have had a number of applicants cancel just before their report date due to their command not releasing them to participate in Skillbridge. Please inquire with your command about the likelihood you will be released for participation in a skillbridge program prior to applying.