IBU (International Bitterness Units)
IBU, or International Bitterness Units, is a standard way of measuring how bitter a beer is. Brewers use this measurement to make sure their beers taste consistent and meet style requirements. Think of it like a spiciness scale for beer - the higher the IBU number, the more bitter the beer. This is important because different types of beer should have different levels of bitterness - for example, light lagers might have 8-12 IBUs, while strong IPAs could have 50-80 IBUs or more. When reviewing resumes or job descriptions, you might see IBU mentioned in context of quality control, recipe development, or brewing specifications.
Examples in Resumes
Developed new beer recipes maintaining IBU levels within style guidelines
Monitored and adjusted IBUs during production to ensure consistent product quality
Managed quality control program including regular IBU testing and documentation
Typical job title: "Brewers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Brewers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you adjust a recipe when IBU measurements are consistently off target?
Expected Answer: A senior brewer should explain the relationship between hop additions, timing, and IBU results, discussing how to analyze and adjust recipes while maintaining the beer's intended flavor profile.
Q: How do you train staff on IBU measurement and quality control?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate experience in developing training programs, explaining technical concepts to new brewers, and implementing quality control procedures that ensure consistent IBU measurements.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors can affect IBU levels during the brewing process?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain how boil time, hop varieties, water chemistry, and fermentation can impact IBU levels, and how to control these factors.
Q: How do you measure IBUs and what methods do you use to ensure accuracy?
Expected Answer: Should describe proper testing procedures, equipment calibration, and quality control measures used to get accurate IBU measurements.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is an IBU and why is it important in brewing?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that IBU measures beer bitterness and why different beer styles have different target IBU ranges.
Q: What are typical IBU ranges for common beer styles?
Expected Answer: Should know basic IBU ranges for popular beer styles like lagers, pale ales, and IPAs, showing understanding of style guidelines.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of IBU measurement
- Knowledge of target IBU ranges for different beer styles
- Ability to follow established recipes and procedures
- Basic quality control testing
Mid (2-5 years)
- Recipe adjustment based on IBU results
- Quality control program management
- Understanding of factors affecting IBU levels
- Interpretation of lab analysis results
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced recipe development with IBU considerations
- Training and management of brewing staff
- Quality assurance program development
- Troubleshooting production issues
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain basic IBU concept
- No experience with quality control measurements
- Lack of knowledge about typical IBU ranges for different beer styles
- No hands-on brewing experience
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Micro-Internships: The Game-Changer in Project-Based Learning
Lost in Translation? How a Hybrid Mentorship Database Bridges Cross-Regional Talent
How Internal Gig Marketplaces Revolutionize Employee Development
