JOB SUMMARY

The Laboratory Technician reports to the Winemaker and assists the winemaking team by performing various chemical, microbiological, and physical analyses. This role is accountable for ensuring wine quality, monitoring fermentation, conducting lab trials, and keeping accurate records in a safe and compliant environment. Additionally, this role supports cellar and bottling operations during peak production.


JOB SUMMARY
The Laboratory Technician reports to the Winemaker and assists the winemaking team by performing various chemical, microbiological, and physical analyses. This role is accountable for ensuring wine quality, monitoring fermentation, conducting lab trials, and keeping accurate records in a safe and compliant environment. Additionally, this role supports cellar and bottling operations during peak production.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Laboratory Operations
•  Perform daily analysis promptly: routine tests including sulfur, TA/pH, volatile acidity, alcohol, turbidity, and enzymatics (RS, ML, YAN).
•  Monitor primary and secondary fermentations during harvest, and report any issues to the winemaking team.
•  Perform microbial plating and microscopy to evaluate the health of wine and detect spoilage organisms.
•  Conduct bench trials using fining agents, prepare blend samples, and assist with experimental wine evaluations.
•  Carry out juice, must, and wine additions (e.g., yeast, nutrients, bacteria, and other additives).
•  Perform bottling quality control (QC) and quality assurance (QA) procedures as directed by the winemaker to ensure compliance with product standards.
•  Notify the winemaker immediately if enological standards are not met during cellar or bottling operations.
•  Calibrate, clean, and maintain all analytical instruments and standardize solutions.
•  Manage lab inventory and help with ordering supplies and chemicals.
•  Enter timely and accurate data into Excel spreadsheets and the NAV database.
•  Perform sanitation audits with ATP swabs, report the findings, and coordinate corrective actions with the Cellar Master.
•  Follow all safety protocols and keep a clean, organized, and secure laboratory environment.

Cellar Operations
•  Efficiently perform all routine cellar tasks, including but not limited to crushing, additions, pressing, punch-downs, pump-overs, and transfers.
•  Follow cellar protocols and standard operating procedures, including established safety regulations.
•  Other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
•  Proficiency with lab instruments and software, including Vintegrate, Microsoft Office Suite, and spectrophotometry.
•  Ability to recognize and describe differences in wine color visually, and to identify wine flavors through taste and aroma.
•  Strong organizational skills with great attention to detail and follow-through.
•  Strong verbal,?written, and interpersonal communication skills.?
•  Self-motivated and capable of working independently with minimal supervision. ?
•  Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and overtime during seasonal peaks.
•  Valid Driver’s license.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
•  A bachelor’s degree in Enology, Chemistry, or Microbiology is required.
•  1-2 years of laboratory experience at a winery, including fundamental chemical and microbiological analyses.
•  Strong quantitative skills, including math, statistics, and data analysis.

Language Skills:
•  Read and interpret safety protocols, manuals, and standard procedures.
•  Write clear reports and communicate effectively with team members.
•  Apply practical problem-solving skills in dynamic or non-standard situations.

Benefits:
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Paid Time Off, Sick Time and Holiday Pay