Krausen

Term from Brewing industry explained for recruiters

Krausen is a foamy layer that forms on top of beer during the fermentation process. In brewing, this term is important because it indicates active fermentation and healthy yeast activity. Brewers monitor the krausen to track fermentation progress and ensure quality. The term appears in both traditional brewing and modern craft brewing contexts. When you see this on a resume, it often indicates hands-on brewing experience and understanding of fermentation processes.

Examples in Resumes

Monitored Krausen formation and fermentation progress for quality control

Developed standard operating procedures for Krausen management in fermenting vessels

Trained junior brewers in identifying healthy Krausen formation patterns

Typical job title: "Brewers"

Also try searching for:

Brewer Craft Brewer Brewing Technician Cellarman Fermentation Specialist Production Brewer Quality Control Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you troubleshoot abnormal krausen formation during fermentation?

Expected Answer: A senior brewer should explain how different factors like temperature, yeast health, and wort composition affect krausen formation, and describe specific solutions for common issues.

Q: How do you manage krausen in different fermenter designs?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of various fermenter types and how to adjust processes for different vessel geometries, including controlling foam formation and preventing overflow.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What indicates healthy versus unhealthy krausen formation?

Expected Answer: Should describe normal appearance, timing, and characteristics of healthy krausen, and identify warning signs that might indicate fermentation problems.

Q: How do you adjust fermentation parameters based on krausen observation?

Expected Answer: Should explain how to interpret krausen appearance and behavior to make decisions about temperature control and fermentation management.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is krausen and why is it important in brewing?

Expected Answer: Should explain that krausen is the foam formed during fermentation and indicates active yeast working to create beer.

Q: How do you monitor and record krausen formation?

Expected Answer: Should describe basic observation techniques and standard recording practices for tracking fermentation progress.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic fermentation monitoring
  • Understanding of brewing processes
  • Cleaning and sanitation procedures
  • Basic quality control checks

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced fermentation management
  • Problem-solving fermentation issues
  • Quality control procedures
  • Equipment operation and maintenance

Senior (5+ years)

  • Process optimization
  • Team supervision and training
  • Troubleshooting complex issues
  • Recipe development and scaling

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No hands-on brewing experience
  • Lack of basic fermentation knowledge
  • Poor understanding of sanitation importance
  • No experience with quality control procedures