Quality Assurance Intern

WAGE: $18/hr

EMPLOYMENT: Fixed-term, Full-time

FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt Hourly

TIME PERIOD: May – September 2026

REPORTS TO: Quality Supervisor

DIRECT REPORTS: None

pFriem (pronounced “freem”) artisanal beers are symphonies of flavor and balance, influenced by the great brewers of Europe, but unmistakably true to our homegrown roots in the Pacific Northwest. We are guided by a religious commitment to quality and the never-ending pursuit of innovation. Although they are served humbly, each glass is overflowing with pride and a relentless aspiration to brew the best beer in the world.

About the role:

Our summer Quality Assurance Intern will primarily work under the supervision of the quality assurance team in the on-site laboratory. The work is geared to both provide a meaningful work and learning experience while adding the additional labor required to meet seasonal demand. Throughout the internship, you will develop a practical understanding of the workflow within a commercial brewery and the associated quality assurance procedures. This position is best suited for students actively working towards a degree in brewing science, fermentation/food science, biology, or chemistry. Previous brewing laboratory experience is not required.

A breakdown of the core tasks you will master:

• Measuring various analytes using common laboratory equipment including spectrophotometer, alcolyzer, density meter, pH probe, and more.
• Aseptic sampling of fermentation vessels and brite tanks for microbiological analysis.
• Yeast cell counting, pitch rate calculations, and monitoring yeast propagations.
• Collect samples from canning and kegging lines. Measure package gasses and physical characteristics.
• Communicate results clearly and quickly to production teams to inform operations.
• Data collection and entry throughout a shift.
• Adhere to SOPs, checklists, and troubleshooting guides.
• Equipment calibration, cleaning and general laboratory upkeep.
• Manage a self-guided process improvement project and present to the quality team at the end of your internship.
• Support other production departments as needed.

Additional tasks you will be exposed to during training:

• Setting up and conducting sensory panels.
• Sampling and analyzing samples during barrel aging

This list is not exhaustive of the responsibilities required.

General requirements:

• Work shifts at the Hood River (=90% of time) and Cascade Locks facilities (=10% of time).
• Work a fixed shift schedule: Four consecutive days (specific days TBD); 4x10h; 7am-5pm
• Be on time for all shifts, ready to work, with a clear head.
• Be able to work in a standing position for long periods of time.
• Be able to lift up to 50lbs safely and without risk of injury to self, others, or company property.
• Work in a safe manner and adhere to all safety protocols.

More about you

You are someone who is hard-working, has good attention to detail, hustles and will work well in a busy but efficient brewery. You are self-motivated, capable of multitasking effectively, and able to work with a sharp focus and tidiness.

You work well with others

You enjoy working with others who share a passion for beer, quality, and innovation. Let’s be honest, you spend a lot of time with your colleagues, and you deserve to work with great people. You like to grab a shift beer with the people you work with and care about your co-workers.

You are a juggling master

Work in a production brewery can sometimes be hectic, no matter how well we plan, and how good our team is. You don’t get fired up under pressure, and know how to prioritize, and maintain a positive attitude. You know how to ask for help and how to manage tasks and emotions when it’s go-time.

Your qualifications

• Working towards a degree in fermentation/food science, engineering, biology, chemistry or another relevant field.
• Must be 21+ years of age.
• Licensed to drive and access to reliable transportation.
• Solid references are a must.

Why you should be part of the pFriem Team

pFriem Family Brewers has experienced incredible growth in the past twelve years and has earned prestigious awards, including being named GABF® 2018 Mid-Size Brewing Company of the Year, Three-Time Brewery of the Year by the Beer Connoisseur, Best Brewpub Experience by Oregon Beer Awards, and numerous medals in national and international brewing competitions.

Our team is made up of 100+ multi-talented individuals from Tasting Room to Brewery who are committed to giving craft beer lovers the best experience possible.

The people

We are a passionate group who takes our work seriously but ourselves not too seriously. Our team is made up of highly talented individuals not only in their jobs but also their hobbies and personal pursuits. Whether it’s enjoying shift beers with the crew or experiencing the Columbia River outdoor scene with co-workers, the pFriem team is warm and welcoming with a strong bond over beer. We promote from within so there is opportunity for career advancement.

The location

You get to work in one of the most stunning locations in the PNW! pFriem is located at the Hood River Waterfront park with epic views of the Columbia River Gorge. Mt. Hood is a short drive from town where you can recreate all year long. You’ll be surrounded by a Gorge community that thrives with local purveyors and people passionate about beer, food, the outdoors and its people.

The benefits

• This position pays $18/hr.
• A monthly tasting room credit of at least $200 to use for beer, meals, and merchandise.
• $300 stipend for personal protective equipment.
• Eligible for paid sick leave.
• Company-wide outings.

How to apply

If this sounds like a good fit, please send a cover-letter and resume to jobs@pfriembeer.com. We can’t wait to hear from you!

Cheers!