Specific Gravity
Specific Gravity is a basic measurement used in brewing to determine how much sugar is in a liquid compared to water. Think of it like a progress meter that brewers use to track how well their fermentation is going. When making beer or other fermented drinks, brewers start with a high specific gravity (lots of sugars) and end with a lower one (most sugars converted to alcohol). It's similar to checking the temperature while cooking - it tells you if everything is moving along as it should. You might also see it called "SG," "gravity reading," or "gravity points" in job descriptions and resumes.
Examples in Resumes
Maintained detailed fermentation logs tracking Specific Gravity measurements for quality control
Achieved consistent product quality by monitoring SG readings throughout brewing process
Trained junior brewers in proper Specific Gravity testing techniques and documentation
Typical job title: "Brewers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Brewers
Online Communities
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you use specific gravity measurements to troubleshoot fermentation problems?
Expected Answer: A senior brewer should explain how unexpected gravity readings can indicate issues like stuck fermentation, contamination, or temperature problems, and describe their problem-solving approach using this data.
Q: How do you train staff on proper specific gravity measurement techniques?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating standard operating procedures, hands-on training methods, common measurement errors to avoid, and how to properly calibrate and maintain testing equipment.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What's the relationship between specific gravity readings and alcohol content?
Expected Answer: Should explain how the difference between starting and final gravity helps calculate alcohol content, and why this matters for consistency and legal requirements.
Q: How do you ensure accurate specific gravity measurements?
Expected Answer: Should discuss proper sampling techniques, temperature corrections, equipment calibration, and the importance of taking readings at consistent times during fermentation.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is specific gravity and why is it important in brewing?
Expected Answer: Should explain that specific gravity measures sugar content in liquid compared to water, and helps track fermentation progress and ensure consistent product quality.
Q: How do you take a specific gravity reading?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic steps of using a hydrometer or refractometer, including cleaning equipment, proper sample temperature, and recording measurements.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic gravity measurements
- Recording brewing data
- Understanding fermentation basics
- Following standard procedures
Mid (2-5 years)
- Interpreting gravity readings
- Troubleshooting basic issues
- Training others on measurements
- Quality control procedures
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced problem solving
- Recipe development
- Process optimization
- Team management and training
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain basic measurement principles
- No experience with quality control documentation
- Lack of understanding about temperature effects on readings
- Poor attention to detail in measurement recording
Related Terms
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