Head Distiller / Director of Operations

Koltiska Distillery Inc – Under new ownership as of 2026

Sheridan, Wyoming – Job Onsite

The Head Distiller / Director of Operations will be responsible for leading all distillation, production, and operational functions of the distillery. This includes recipe development, production planning, quality control, barrel management, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency.

This role will partner closely with ownership to build and scale Koltiska Distillery into a premier spirits business rooted in the heritage and landscape of Sheridan and the Bighorn Mountains.

The ideal candidate combines technical distillation expertise with strong operational leadership—someone who can craft exceptional spirits while also designing systems and processes that support growth in production, distribution, and hospitality.

·        Lead all distillation and production operations including mashing, fermentation, distillation, aging, and bottling

·        Develop and refine recipes for whiskey, bourbon, rye, and other craft spirits

·        Oversee quality control processes to ensure consistency and excellence in all products

·        Manage production scheduling and capacity planning

·        Design and implement standard operating procedures across the distillery

·        Monitor yields, fermentation performance, and production efficiency

·        Oversee barrel management including filling, storage, aging, and inventory tracking

·        Source and manage relationships with grain suppliers, cooperages, and other production vendors

·        Ensure compliance with all federal and state regulations including reporting to the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau

·        Manage production records, batch tracking, and compliance documentation

·        Work closely with leadership on product development, brand strategy, and portfolio expansion

·        Support the tasting room and hospitality teams with product knowledge and training

·        Collaborate with marketing and sales teams on new releases and product storytelling

·        Assist in equipment planning, distillery layout optimization, and facility expansion

·        Build and lead the production team as the distillery grows

·        Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Food Science, Fermentation Science, Engineering, or related field preferred but not required

·        5–10+ years of distilling, brewing, fermentation, or beverage production experience

·        Experience in craft distilling strongly preferred

·        Deep knowledge of fermentation science, distillation techniques, and spirit maturation

·        Strong understanding of TTB regulations and compliance requirements

·        Experience managing production operations and teams

·        Strong mechanical aptitude and familiarity with distillation equipment

·        Excellent problem-solving and organizational skills

·        Passion for craft spirits and innovation

·        Ability to thrive in an entrepreneurial and fast-growing environment

·        Competitive salary and performance incentives

·        Relocation assistance

·        Creative freedom in product development

·        Collaborative, entrepreneurial work environment

·        Beautiful location with unmatched outdoor recreation in the Bighorn Mountains

·        Health benefits

If you are a passionate distiller and operational leader who enjoys building exceptional spirits, creating efficient production systems, and helping grow a distinctive brand, we invite you to apply and help shape the future of Koltiska Distillery Inc.