Koji Room Worker (Miso and Soy Sauce Manufacturing)
こうじむろこう（みそ・しょうゆせいぞう）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Koji room workers manufacture koji, the raw material for miso and soy sauce. They control fermentation through appropriate temperature and humidity management to ensure stable quality.
Description
Koji room workers are specialists who propagate koji mold on steamed raw materials such as rice or soybeans to manufacture koji, the foundation for miso and soy sauce. After preparation, they strictly manage room temperature and humidity, and regularly perform turning and product temperature measurements. Tasks include handling thermohygrometers and control devices, quality inspections, hygiene management, and creating and reporting work records. Much of the work is in high-temperature, high-humidity environments, requiring utmost care as it directly affects the flavor and taste of the product.
Future Outlook
Successor shortage due to declining birthrate and aging population is a challenge. On the other hand, demand is stable due to health-oriented fermented foods and the traditional food boom. Introduction of quality control and automation technology is expected to advance in the future.
Personality Traits
High hygiene awareness / Meticulous / Patient / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Career Path
Apprentice (Koji Production Assistant) → Koji Room Worker → Site Leader → Manufacturing Manager → Factory Manager / Quality Control Manager
Required Skills
Fermentation Process Management / Hygiene Management / Quality Control / Quality Inspection / Temperature and Humidity Management
Recommended Skills
Data Recording / Hygiene Management (HACCP) / Machine Control
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because minute changes in temperature and humidity affect quality. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Requires physical stamina to work for long hours in high-temperature, high-humidity environments. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Relatively little need for creative thinking in standardized processes. |
Related Qualifications
- Brewing Technician
- Food Hygiene Manager
Aliases
- Koji Manufacturing Worker
Related Jobs
- Food Manufacturing Machine Operator
- Miso Manufacturing Worker
- Soy Sauce Manufacturing Worker