Conversion
Conversion in brewing refers to the process of turning grain starches into fermentable sugars that will eventually become alcohol. It's a critical step in the brewing process that determines how strong and flavorful the final beer will be. When brewers talk about conversion, they're discussing their ability to efficiently extract sugars from grains during the mashing process. This is similar to how a chef needs to know the right temperature and time to cook ingredients properly. The term might appear in job descriptions as "conversion efficiency," "conversion rate," or "mash conversion."
Examples in Resumes
Achieved 90% conversion rate efficiency in grain mashing process
Optimized conversion temperatures to improve sugar extraction from malted barley
Managed grain conversion process for multiple brew batches simultaneously
Typical job title: "Brewers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Brewers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Social Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you troubleshoot poor conversion efficiency in the brewing process?
Expected Answer: A senior brewer should explain checking mash temperatures, grain crush quality, water chemistry, and pH levels. They should mention monitoring enzyme activity and adjusting processes based on different grain types.
Q: How do you train staff on proper conversion monitoring?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating standard operating procedures, teaching proper temperature control, demonstrating iodine tests, and explaining the importance of timing in the mashing process.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors affect conversion rates during mashing?
Expected Answer: Should mention temperature control, pH levels, grain crush size, water-to-grain ratio, and mashing time as key factors affecting conversion success.
Q: How do you measure conversion completion?
Expected Answer: Should explain using iodine tests, taking gravity readings, and monitoring time and temperature throughout the process.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for conversion?
Expected Answer: Should know the basic temperature range (usually 145-158°F) and understand that different temperatures favor different enzyme activities.
Q: What is the purpose of conversion in brewing?
Expected Answer: Should explain that conversion turns grain starches into fermentable sugars needed to make alcohol during fermentation.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of mashing process
- Ability to monitor temperatures
- Knowledge of basic conversion tests
- Following standard brewing procedures
Mid (2-5 years)
- Troubleshooting conversion problems
- Understanding different grain types
- Managing multiple brew batches
- Adjusting recipes for efficiency
Senior (5+ years)
- Optimizing conversion efficiency
- Training and supervising staff
- Developing new recipes
- Managing quality control systems
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain basic mashing process
- No knowledge of proper temperature ranges
- Lack of experience with quality testing
- Poor understanding of different grain types
