Specialty Coffee Roaster & Retailer
The sourcing, profile development, and commercial distribution of high-grade specialty coffee products.
Overview
This career involves a blend of technical precision and sensory analysis to achieve consistent roast profiles across various coffee origins. Daily work oscillates between the physical labor of green coffee handling and the meticulous data tracking required to maintain quality standards in a high-volume production environment. Practitioners spend significant time conducting cupping sessions to evaluate flavor characteristics and making micro-adjustments to roasting equipment to account for variables like ambient temperature and moisture content.
Success in this field requires a disciplined approach to inventory management and a commitment to continuous learning regarding agricultural trends and processing methods. The rhythm of the work is often dictated by production schedules and seasonal harvest cycles, demanding high levels of focus and physical endurance. Individuals who thrive in this role often possess a keen palate, a methodical mindset for troubleshooting mechanical issues, and the ability to communicate complex flavor profiles to diverse stakeholders.
Responsibilities
- Establish and maintain rigorous quality control protocols for green and roasted coffee inventory.
- Develop unique roast profiles for various coffee origins to highlight specific terroir characteristics.
- Manage production schedules to meet the demands of both wholesale clients and direct-to-consumer sales.
- Oversee the maintenance and calibration of commercial roasting machinery and packaging equipment.
- Source green coffee through direct trade relationships or specialized importers to ensure ethical supply chains.
- Analyze sales data and market trends to inform product development and seasonal offerings.
- Train retail and wholesale partners on proper brewing techniques and product knowledge.
Qualifications
- Minimum of five years experience in commercial coffee roasting and production management.
- Technical proficiency in using roasting software such as Cropster or Artisan for data logging.
- Demonstrated ability to perform sensory evaluation and descriptive cupping at a professional level.
- Comprehensive knowledge of coffee botany, processing methods, and global harvest cycles.
- Experience managing food safety standards and maintaining health department compliance.
- Proven track record of managing inventory and logistics within a manufacturing environment.
Nice to have
- Q-Grader certification from the Coffee Quality Institute.
- Experience in mechanical repair and maintenance of Probat, Loring, or Diedrich roasters.
- Advanced degree in food science, chemistry, or business administration.
- Established network of relationships with international coffee producers and exporters.
Work environment
- Roasting facilities are typically industrial environments characterized by high temperatures and noise from machinery.
- Work hours often begin early in the morning to align with production and shipping deadlines.
- The role requires physical stamina for lifting heavy coffee sacks and standing for extended periods.
- Collaboration occurs frequently with production assistants, green buyers, and retail managers.
- Digital tools are used extensively for profile tracking, inventory management, and e-commerce operations.
Benefits & growth
- Compensation packages often include performance-based bonuses tied to production efficiency and sales growth.
- Career progression typically moves toward Head of Production, Green Buyer, or Operations Director roles.
- Professional development is supported through industry competitions and international origin trips.
- Opportunities for equity or partnership are common in independent, high-growth roasting companies.
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