Koji Maker (Alcoholic Beverage Manufacturing)
せいきくこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Specialist job that attaches and cultivates koji mold on steamed rice to produce and manage koji, which forms the foundation of sake brewing.
Description
Koji makers attach koji mold to steamed rice in alcoholic beverage manufacturing and cultivate it for several days under controlled temperature and humidity conditions to produce koji. Since the quality of koji greatly influences the final sake quality, they observe the mold's activity and growth condition while making fine adjustments to the environmental conditions. Maintaining a clean work environment, quality control, and safety and hygiene management are also important duties.
Future Outlook
Although Japan's sake brewing industry is declining, demand for koji manufacturing technicians will be maintained to some extent due to craft sake production and export expansion. Diverse opportunities are expected, such as applications in overseas fermented food industries.
Personality Traits
Excellent observation skills / Meticulous / Patient / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Factory work / Piece-rate pay / Seasonal fluctuations / Shift work
Career Path
Brewery worker → Preparation worker → Master brewer assistant → Master brewer → Quality control worker
Required Skills
Hygiene management / Koji mold cultivation / Quality control / Steamed rice handling / Temperature and humidity control
Recommended Skills
Analytical equipment operation / Basic microbiology knowledge / Fermentation process knowledge / Food hygiene manager qualification
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | To accurately manage temperature and humidity and ensure quality. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Physical stamina is required due to frequent handling of heavy objects and work in high-temperature, high-humidity environments. |
Aliases
- Koji craftsman
- Koji production craftsman
- Koji shop
Related Jobs
- Master brewer
- Preparation worker
- Pressing worker
- Sake brewing technician