Coffee Bean Roasting Technician in Ohio Career Overview

As a Coffee Bean Roasting Technician, you play a vital role in the coffee industry by transforming raw green coffee beans into flavorful roasted coffee. Your responsibilities encompass a range of activities, all centered on the roasting process, which is key to developing the aroma, flavor, and quality that coffee enthusiasts cherish.

  • Roasting Process: You oversee the roasting machines, carefully controlling temperature and time to achieve the desired roast profile. This involves understanding the nuances of different coffee bean varieties and their specific roasting requirements.

  • Quality Control: You ensure the consistency and quality of the coffee produced. This includes performing cupping sessions to taste and evaluate the coffee, allowing you to make adjustments to the roasting parameters as necessary.

  • Equipment Maintenance: Routine maintenance and troubleshooting of roasting equipment fall under your purview. Maintaining the integrity of these machines ensures a smooth production process and optimal coffee quality.

  • Inventory Management: You may also be involved in managing coffee bean inventory, sourcing high-quality beans, and collaborating with suppliers to select the best options for your roasting profiles.

  • Collaboration with Teams: Working alongside baristas, quality assurance teams, and supply chain professionals, you contribute vital knowledge about roasting effects, which helps in creating the final coffee experience for consumers.

In the coffee industry, your technical expertise and sensory skills are essential to creating the diverse range of flavors that coffee drinkers seek. Your role not only influences product quality but also enhances the overall appreciation of coffee culture within the community.

Coffee Bean Roasting Technician Salary in Ohio

Annual Median: $36,680
Hourly Median: $17.64

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Coffee Bean Roasting Technician in Ohio

To become a Coffee Bean Roasting Technician in Ohio, you are generally expected to have a mix of formal education and hands-on training. While a specific degree is not always mandatory, the following academic programs can significantly enhance your knowledge and employability in this field:

  • Agricultural and Food Products Processing

    • This program covers the principles of processing agricultural products and emphasizes the importance of quality control and food safety, making it relevant for understanding the roasting process and product development.

  • Food Science and Technology

    • A degree in this field provides a solid grounding in the science behind food production, including the chemical and physical changes that occur during roasting. This knowledge is critical for mastering the roasting process and developing flavor profiles.

  • Food Technology and Processing

    • This program focuses on the technology used in food production, including the techniques and equipment specific to food processing. Understanding these technologies can equip you with the skills necessary for operating roasting machinery efficiently.

  • Food Science

    • Pursuing a degree in food science offers insights into food composition, processing, and preservation. It prepares you to understand the factors that affect flavor, aroma, and texture in coffee, which are essential to your role as a roasting technician.

In addition to formal education, gaining practical experience through internships or hands-on training in coffee roasting facilities is beneficial. Many employers value on-the-job experience in conjunction with your educational background. Consider seeking opportunities that allow you to directly engage in the coffee roasting process to complement your formal studies.

Best Schools to become a Coffee Bean Roasting Technician in Ohio 2024

#1Champaign County

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Champaign, IL

In-State Tuition:$14,542
Out-of-State Tuition:$35,122
Admission Rate:45%
Graduation Rate:85%
Total Enrollment:56,916
#2Ingham County

Michigan State University

East Lansing, MI

In-State Tuition:$16,437
Out-of-State Tuition:$42,427
Admission Rate:88%
Graduation Rate:82%
Total Enrollment:50,023
#3Tompkins County

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY

In-State Tuition:$62,456
Out-of-State Tuition:$62,456
Admission Rate:7%
Graduation Rate:95%
Total Enrollment:25,898
#4Riley County

Kansas State University

Manhattan, KS

In-State Tuition:$9,489
Out-of-State Tuition:$25,560
Admission Rate:95%
Graduation Rate:69%
Total Enrollment:19,722
#5Pickens County

Clemson University

Clemson, SC

In-State Tuition:$14,118
Out-of-State Tuition:$38,062
Admission Rate:43%
Graduation Rate:85%
Total Enrollment:28,466
#6Yolo County

University of California-Davis

Davis, CA

In-State Tuition:$11,564
Out-of-State Tuition:$41,636
Admission Rate:37%
Graduation Rate:86%
Total Enrollment:39,679
Coffee Bean Roasting Technician Job Description:
  • Operate or tend food or tobacco roasting, baking, or drying equipment, including hearth ovens, kiln driers, roasters, char kilns, and vacuum drying equipment.

Coffee Bean Roasting Technician Required Skills and Competencies in Ohio

  • Attention to Detail: You must be able to monitor the roasting process carefully, as slight changes in time or temperature can drastically affect the flavor and quality of the beans.

  • Understanding of Roast Profiles: Knowledge of different roast levels—light, medium, and dark—is essential. You should be able to recognize the nuances that each profile brings to the coffee's flavor.

  • Sensory Evaluation: Strong sensory skills are necessary for tasting and assessing the quality of the coffee. You should be adept at identifying various flavor notes, acidity levels, and potential defects.

  • Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with coffee roasting machines, temperature controls, and equipment maintenance is important to ensure optimal roasting conditions.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: You need to troubleshoot issues that may arise during the roasting process, adjusting parameters to achieve the desired outcome.

  • Quality Control: Implementing quality control measures throughout the roasting process will help maintain consistent product standards.

  • Time Management: Efficiently managing the roasting schedule and time spent on each batch will aid in maximizing productivity.

  • Team Collaboration: Collaborating effectively with other staff members, including baristas and quality assurance teams, is essential for delivering a high-quality product.

  • Knowledge of Coffee Varietals: Familiarity with various types of coffee beans and their unique characteristics will enhance your ability to roast specific varieties effectively.

  • Record Keeping: Maintaining accurate records of roasting profiles, bean sources, and feedback is vital for continuous improvement and consistency.

  • Safety Awareness: Understanding safety protocols related to handling equipment and materials is crucial to ensure a safe working environment.

Job Duties for Coffee Bean Roasting Technicians

  • Observe temperature, humidity, pressure gauges, and product samples and adjust controls, such as thermostats and valves, to maintain prescribed operating conditions for specific stages.

  • Observe, feel, taste, or otherwise examine products during and after processing to ensure conformance to standards.

  • Set temperature and time controls, light ovens, burners, driers, or roasters, and start equipment, such as conveyors, cylinders, blowers, driers, or pumps.

Technologies and Skills Used by Coffee Bean Roasting Technicians

Electronic mail software

  • Email software

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft Excel

Basic Skills

  • Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Coffee Bean Roasting Technician in Ohio

The job market for Coffee Bean Roasting Technicians in Ohio reflects a dynamic industry with growing interest in specialty coffee. Here are key insights into current trends and opportunities:

  • Increasing Demand: The rise of third-wave coffee shops and artisanal brands has increased the demand for skilled technicians. Consumers are more discerning, favoring quality and unique flavors, leading to opportunities for those skilled in the craft of roasting.

  • Growth Potential: The specialty coffee sector continues to expand, driven by consumer interest in high-quality, sustainably sourced coffee. This trend suggests a positive growth outlook for coffee bean roasting jobs, as businesses look for technicians who can enhance their product offerings.

  • Regional Hotspots:

    • Columbus: As Ohio's capital and one of the state's largest cities, Columbus boasts a vibrant coffee culture with numerous cafes and roasting companies.
    • Cleveland: Known for its booming food scene, Cleveland is home to several established and startup coffee roasting businesses.
    • Cincinnati: The city's growing interest in artisanal food and beverages contributes to increasing opportunities for roasting technicians.
    • Dayton: A smaller but emerging market, Dayton has several local coffee roasters expanding their reach and looking for skilled help.

  • Diversity of Employment Settings: Coffee Bean Roasting Technicians may find employment in various settings, including:

    • Independent coffee shops
    • Larger coffee roasters
    • Specialty grocery stores
    • Cafes that focus on crafted beverages

  • Networking and Professional Communities: Engaging in local coffee communities, participating in workshops, and attending coffee festivals can help you connect with industry professionals and discover job opportunities.

  • Sustainability Focus: The trend toward sustainable and ethically sourced coffee may create additional roles in roasting, as companies seek technicians who align with their values and can educate consumers about sourcing and roasting practices.

Understanding these aspects of the job market can help you navigate opportunities and position yourself effectively as a Coffee Bean Roasting Technician in Ohio.

Top Related Careers to Coffee Bean Roasting Technician 2024

Baking Machine Technician
Tobacco Drying Specialist
Kiln Operator
Food Processing Machine Operator

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Coffee Bean Roasting Technician in Ohio

  • Specialty Coffee Association (SCA)
    A leading organization that supports coffee professionals and provides valuable resources on coffee production, including roasting techniques.
    Specialty Coffee Association

  • Coffee Quality Institute (CQI)
    Focuses on improving the quality of coffee through education and training programs. Their materials can help deepen your understanding of coffee flavor profiles and roasting.
    Coffee Quality Institute

  • Roast Magazine
    A publication dedicated to the roasting community, featuring articles on industry trends, techniques, and equipment reviews that can benefit your knowledge as a technician.
    Roast Magazine

  • The Coffee Roasters Guild
    Part of the SCA, this guild offers professional development, networking opportunities, and resources specifically geared toward coffee roasters.
    Coffee Roasters Guild

  • Barista Guild
    Also under the SCA umbrella, the Barista Guild provides certification programs and training resources that can complement your skills in roasting.
    Barista Guild

  • YouTube Channels

    • James Hoffmann
      • A former World Barista Champion who shares insights on coffee brewing and roasting techniques.
        James Hoffmann YouTube
    • European Coffee Trip

  • Books

    • The Coffee Roaster's Companion by Scott Rao - A comprehensive guide on coffee roasting that provides insight into the technical aspects of the process.
    • Coffee: A Comprehensive Guide to the Bean, the Beverage, and the Industry by Robert E. Streiff - This book covers coffee from bean to cup, offering an in-depth look at the industry.

  • Online Courses

    • Coursera offers various courses related to coffee, including roasting techniques and coffee science, which can enhance your skills as a technician.
      Coursera
    • Udemy features affordable courses on coffee roasting for beginners and advanced roasters alike.
      Udemy

  • Local Ohio Coffee Roasters
    Engaging with local coffee roasters can provide practical experience and networking opportunities. Consider visiting and building connections with establishments like:

    • Chicory Coffee & Tea Company
    • Deeper Roots Coffee
    • Narrative Coffee

Utilize these resources to expand your knowledge, improve your skills, and connect with the coffee roasting community in Ohio and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Coffee Bean Roasting Technician in Ohio

  • What does a Coffee Bean Roasting Technician do?
    A Coffee Bean Roasting Technician is responsible for roasting coffee beans to develop desired flavors and aromas. You monitor the roasting process, make adjustments based on temperature and time, and ensure quality control for the final product.

  • What skills are necessary for this role?
    Essential skills include an understanding of coffee bean varieties, knowledge of roasting equipment, palate development for tasting, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities. Communication skills are also important for working collaboratively with other team members.

  • What education is required to become a Coffee Bean Roasting Technician?
    While there is no specific degree required, many technicians have backgrounds in food science, chemistry, or hospitality. Completion of a coffee roasting training program or certification can also be beneficial.

  • Is prior experience in coffee roasting necessary?
    While previous experience is advantageous, it is not always required. Many companies provide on-the-job training, but having a solid foundation in coffee preparation and flavor profiles can be helpful.

  • What equipment do Coffee Bean Roasting Technicians use?
    You will typically use a variety of roasting machines including drum roasters, air roasters, and sample roasters. Additionally, equipment for measuring temperature and timing, as well as tools for quality assessment, are essential.

  • What is the work environment like for this position?
    You will usually work in a coffee roasting facility or roastery, which can be noisy and warm due to machinery. The role may require standing for long periods and working with heavy bags of green coffee beans.

  • What are the typical salary ranges for a Coffee Bean Roasting Technician in Ohio?
    Salaries can vary based on experience and location within Ohio, but typically range from $30,000 to $50,000 annually. More experienced technicians or those in supervisory roles may earn higher salaries.

  • What are the career advancement opportunities in this field?
    With experience, you can move into senior roasting positions, management roles, or specialty roles focusing on quality control or flavor development. Some technicians choose to start their own roasting business.

  • Is there a demand for Coffee Bean Roasting Technicians in Ohio?
    Yes, demand for skilled technicians is steady due to the growing coffee industry and the rise of specialty coffee shops. As more consumers seek high-quality coffee, the need for trained professionals continues to grow.

  • What are some key organizations or associations for Coffee Bean Roasting Technicians?
    Organizations such as the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) offer resources for training, certification, and networking. Engaging with these groups can provide valuable insights and career development opportunities.