Extraction/Distillation Manager

Job Title: Extraction Manager
Location: Springfield, IL
Schedule: Full-time | Monday – Thursday, 10-hour shifts

Position Summary:
A licensed cannabis manufacturing facility in Springfield, Illinois is seeking an experienced Lab Manager to oversee daily extraction lab operations. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience in ethanol extraction and distillation, with a strong understanding of compliance, safety, and quality standards. This role involves leading a small team, maintaining equipment, and ensuring consistent production of high-quality cannabis extracts.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage daily lab operations focused on ethanol extraction and distillation of cannabis biomass

• Supervise and support a team of at least two extraction technicians

• Ensure all activities comply with state regulations, safety standards, and internal SOPs

• Oversee biomass processing, decarboxylation, distillation, formulation, and final product manufacturing

• Maintain strict inventory, product tracking, and documentation procedures

• Conduct and oversee in-process and final product quality assurance testing

• Perform regular maintenance and cleaning of lab equipment

• Maintain lab supply inventory and coordinate restocking as needed

• Collaborate with other departments to align with production and revenue goals

• Support cross-training in other departments, such as cultivation and packaging, when needed

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum 21 years of age

• High school diploma or equivalent (Bachelor’s degree preferred)

• At least 2 years of experience in leading cannabis extraction and distillation

• Proven experience leading or training staff

• Familiarity with laboratory equipment, procedures, and safety standards

• Strong organizational and communication skills

• Ability to work in a physically demanding environment, including lifting up to 50 lbs and standing for extended periods

• Must pass a background check and obtain a state-issued cannabis agent card

• Valid driver’s license

Preferred Qualifications:

• Compliance and data entry experience (e.g., METRC, GMP, ERP systems)

• Experience in a regulated cannabis lab or pharmaceutical manufacturing setting

• Strong mechanical aptitude for maintaining and troubleshooting lab equipment

Work Environment:

• Exposure to manufacturing and cultivation settings with varying temperatures and noise levels

• Frequent lifting, bending, and operation of heavy equipment

• May require operation of forklifts or mobile elevated work platforms (training provided)