Are you ready to join us on an extraordinary journey in sustainable winemaking? Monterey Wine Company is actively seeking an experienced Lab/QC Technician to become a vital part of our dynamic team. As a valued member of our passionate and forward-thinking community, you'll have the opportunity to play a pivotal role in implementing and fine-tuning cutting-edge technologies, propelling us towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly wine industry.
Responsibilities:
•  Conduct comprehensive analyses of grapes and wine according to the Lab Analysis schedule, covering parameters such as Ethanol, TA, pH, VA, TSO2, FSO2, YAN, ML, and RS.
•  Manage WMDB winemaking software and handle all related lab data entry efficiently.
•  Provide basic interpretation of lab data for effective communication with manager and winemakers, facilitating informed decision-making.
•  Standardize lab chemicals and meticulously calibrate equipment to guarantee the accuracy and reliability of analyses.
•  Perform sampling of grapes and wine, ensuring representative and consistent samples for analysis.
•  Coordinate analysis by external labs as necessary, ensuring timely and accurate results.
•  Oversee all aspects of wine readiness for bottling, including conducting Bentonite trials, Cold Stability testing, Filterability assessments, and adjustments for SO2, DO, and CO2 levels.
•  Manage inventory, order lab supplies, and prepare reagents as required to ensure uninterrupted operations.
•  Maintain detailed facility records for the sustainability program, contributing to environmental stewardship.
•  Uphold a clean and organized lab environment, promoting efficiency and safety.
•  Execute monthly topping routines and administer SO2 additions as needed.
•  Assist with the preparation and addition of wine additives, contributing to product quality and consistency.
•  Monitor primary fermentation by conducting daily brix and temperature measurements, ensuring optimal conditions for fermentation.
•  Collect samples as requested and perform enzymatic testing, yeast, and nutrient additions accurately.
•  Conduct chemical tests on juice samples as directed, recording results meticulously on data sheets.
•  Execute yeast and nutrient additions as required by the Lab Manager, supporting fermentation processes.
•  Adhere strictly to safety procedures to maintain a secure working environment for all personnel.
QC Duties and Responsibilities:
•  Maintain meticulous records on packaging quality control, ensuring accuracy in cork height, correct application of capsules or screw caps, and precise placement of labels on bottles. Additionally, ensure cases are taped, labeled, palletized, and wrapped correctly and neatly.
•  Verify case counts at the end of each day and for each bottling run to maintain inventory accuracy.
•  Conduct laboratory analyses required for bottling QC, including testing for Alcohol, Free SO2, CO2, DO, fill height, and vacuum checks, adhering to established protocols.
•  Assist in the preparation and shipment of samples as required, contributing to efficient laboratory operations.
•  Perform additional duties as assigned by the Supervisor or Lab Manager, which may include pond sampling, cleaning tasks, and participation in special projects.
•  Remain flexible and adaptable to handle any other duties as needed to support the overall goals and operations of the department.
Education/Experience:
•  3+ years of laboratory experience.
•  B.S. degree in a science-related field.
•  Basic understanding and knowledge of wine and grape chemistry and of relevant analytical and chemical techniques to serve customers and laboratory.
Requirements:
•  Attention to Detail and Adaptability
•  Accuracy in Following Instructions
•  Proficiency in English
•  Demonstrated Responsibility and Team Collaboration
•  Physical Agility and Strength
•  Comfort at Heights
•  Lifting and Carrying 50 pounds
•  Flexible Schedule
Benefits:
•  Competitive pay - Compensation Range: $21.00 - $25.00 per hour
•  Family medical plan options with $0 payroll deduction
•  Company-paid Basic Life Insurance with $0 payroll deduction
•  Contributory retirement plans for all employees (up to 4% matched contribution)
Note: Monterey Wine Company does not sponsor employment-based visas for this position now or in the future.
Join us in shaping the future of sustainable winemaking! Apply now and be an integral part of our innovative team.