Director of Operations & Distilling
Obbink Distilling
St. Joseph, MN
Full-Time
Salary
$65,000 - $75,000 per year (Negotiable based on experience)
About Obbink Distilling
Obbink Distilling is a craft distillery located in St. Joseph, Minnesota, where engineering, innovation, and craftsmanship come together to create exceptional spirits. Founded by former satellite engineer Gregg Obbink, our mission is to challenge tradition by applying precision, creativity, and an innovative mindset to the art of distilling.
We produce a growing portfolio of premium spirits, a line of rail products, and ready-to-serve cocktails while operating our destination cocktail room, the The Test Site. Guided by our motto, "Out of This World Spirits, for Down to Earth People," we strive to create products and experiences that are as memorable as they are approachable.
At Obbink, we're a small, entrepreneurial team that values hard work, collaboration, continuous improvement, and a willingness to jump in wherever needed. We're looking for a hands-on leader who is excited to help build the future of our company while making a meaningful impact on our team, our customers, and our community.
Position Summary
The Director of Operations & Distilling is responsible for leading the day-to-day operations of Obbink Distilling, including production, warehouse operations, inventory management, purchasing, compliance, equipment maintenance, and support of our cocktail room operations.
This role combines production leadership with business operations and is ideal for someone who enjoys both working on the production floor and helping lead a growing company. The successful candidate will work directly with ownership to improve operational efficiency, product quality, team development, and long-term growth.
Responsibilities:
Production & Distilling
- Lead all production operations from grain to bottle
- Maintain exceptional product quality and consistency
- Develop and manage production schedules
- Improve manufacturing efficiency and reduce waste
- Assist with new product development and innovation
- Manage barrel inventory and aging programs (limited)
- Oversee bottling, packaging, and finished goods production
Operations
- Lead day-to-day production, warehouse, packaging, and fulfillment operations
- Supervise, coach, and develop production team members
- Create and improve operational procedures and systems
- Coordinate with ownership, finance, and sales teams
- Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, quality, and profitability
Inventory & Purchasing
- Manage inventory of ingredients, packaging materials, and finished goods
- Forecast inventory needs and production requirements
- Purchase production supplies and maintain vendor relationships
- Ensure accurate inventory tracking and organization
Cocktail Room Operations
- Support the day-to-day operations of the Test Site
- Partner with cocktail room leadership to deliver an exceptional guest experience
- Assist with staffing, scheduling, and operational improvements
- Help maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming environment
Compliance & Safety
- Ensure compliance with TTB, state, and local regulations
- Maintain production records and reporting requirements
- Oversee workplace safety, sanitation, and quality standards
- Coordinate equipment maintenance and preventative maintenance schedules
Leadership
- Recruit, train, and mentor team members
- Build a positive, accountable, and team-oriented culture
- Lead by example with a hands-on approach
- Help develop the operational strategy for the future growth of Obbink Distilling
Qualifications Required
- 3+ years of leadership or management experience in manufacturing, brewing, distilling, food & beverage production, hospitality, or a related industry
- Strong leadership and communication skills
- Excellent organizational and problem-solving abilities
- Experience leading teams and managing multiple priorities
- Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn production systems
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work in a production environment
Preferred
- Experience in craft distilling, brewing, wineries, beverage manufacturing, or food production
- Knowledge of TTB regulations, production compliance
- Knowledge of whiskey systems (aka Distill x 5) for inventory management system
- Inventory management or supply chain experience
- Hospitality or restaurant management experience
- Passion for craft spirits and entrepreneurship
What We're Looking For
We're looking for someone who:
- Enjoys building and leading teams
- Is hands-on and willing to jump in wherever needed
- Thrives in a fast-paced entrepreneurial environment
- Is highly organized and detail-oriented
- Thinks proactively and continuously looks for ways to improve
- Takes pride in producing exceptional products and experiences
- Wants to help build a growing Minnesota craft spirits brand
- Is looking to build and grow within a company, with an opportunity and mindset towards equity / ownership
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary: $70,000 - $80,000 per year (Negotiable based on experience)
- Performance bonus opportunities
- Paid time off
- Employee discounts
- Professional development opportunities
- Opportunity for long-term career growth within the company
Schedule
- Full-time
- Monday–Friday
- Occasional evenings and weekends as business needs require
- Business will require weekend event support for sales / distribution team as well as weekend cocktail room support at times
Work Location
On-site – St. Joseph, Minnesota
Obbink Distilling is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where every employee can thrive.
Pay: $65,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
