Job Title: Wine Lab Technician Level 1 (Temporary)
Department: Research and Development
Reports to: Director of Product Support & Development-Fermentation
Location: Onsite Napa CA
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Pay: $22.00 to $26.00/hour
Due to character limitations a partial job description is posted. Please contact mcogger@gusmerenterprises for a full job description.

Position Summary: The Wine Lab Technician Level 1 (Temporary) supports Gusmer's mission to be the Go to Provider of analytical services for the wine industry and is ideal for individuals seeking hands-on experience in wine chemistry and lab operations. This entry-level, temporary role works under the supervision of senior staff and performs routine wine testing, maintains laboratory standards, and ensures accurate and timely reporting of results. As part of a laboratory team that creates and delivers Service with Knowledge® through experience and innovative solutions, the technician will gain exposure to industry-standard testing methods, customer service practices, and continuous improvement initiatives in a customer-focused environment.

Essential Functions:
•  Conducts laboratory tests efficiently and effectively by following established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with quality standards. Operates and assists in maintaining the varied laboratory instruments and equipment utilized, such as auto-titrators, spectrophotometers, densitometers, Y15, alcolyzer, pH meters, etc.
•  Ensures all work areas laboratory benches, office, and storage spaces are kept clean, orderly, and compliant with safety standards.
•  Receives and logs samples from customers and internal departments, accountable for ensuring proper documentation and traceability.
•  Conducts standardized tests including pH, titratable acidity, Brix, alcohol, volatile acidity, and sulfur dioxide using calibrated lab equipment.
•  Accurately records test results and flag anomalies or out-of-spec results for supervisor review before customer release.
•  Escalates technical questions or concerns to senior lab staff.
•  Report equipment malfunctions or supply shortages promptly.
•  Follow all lab safety protocols including PPE usage and chemical handling procedures.
•  Supports the Gusmer Fermentation Center, Applications Team, and other internal customers with testing and other R&D responsibilities.
•  Contributes to lab build-out activities, including unpacking materials, moving boxes, and organizing furniture and equipment for optimal workflow.
•  Works collaboratively with the Analytical Chemist and Scientist or Jr. Scientist to meet daily testing needs and assists the Site Manager with front desk coverage on an as-needed basis.
•  Participates in ongoing training to develop proficiency in advanced testing methods and customer service standards.
•  Contributes to delivering accurate, high-quality results that help customers to make informed production decisions.

Other Duties
•  Assists the Warehouse Supervisor as needed.
•  As required accepts deliveries confirming contents and condition on arrival.
•  Performs inventory counts as needed.
•  Works with Chemist or Site Manager to support with additional maintenance or housekeeping tasks outside the lab as required.
•  Performs other Wine Lab Technician Level 1 (Temporary) duties as assigned.

This is not meant to be a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, and responsibilities. These items may change, or new items may be assigned with or without notice.


Experience and Education Requirements
•  HS diploma or Equivalent (GED/HSED) required, Associate’s degree preferred in Enology, Chemistry, Biology, Food Science, or a related field.
•  Laboratory experience including sample preparation, testing, and reporting required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA’s) Required
•  Knowledge of fundamental wine components and their role in production and quality.
•  Knowledge of standard lab procedures, sample handling, and documentation protocols.
•  Knowledge of chemical handling, PPE requirements, and OSHA or equivalent safety guidelines.
•  Proficiency in conducting routine tests using calibrated instruments.
•  Skilled in cleaning, calibrating, and maintaining lab equipment and glassware.
•  Proficiency in basic data entry and use of spreadsheets.
•  Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
•  Ability to solve problems independently.
•  Ability to perform hands-on work including sample preparation and testing.
•  Ability to work effectively within a team and with other functions in the organization.
•  Ability to maintain accuracy in testing and documentation.
•  Ability to recognize out of specification results or equipment malfunctions and report promptly.
•  Ability to learn new testing methods and adjust to evolving lab processes.
•  Ability to use Microsoft Office, other computer programs, and technology.

EEO Policy Statement:
Gusmer Enterprises, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Gusmer will also consider requests for reasonable accommodations made by applicants and employees on an individualized basis, including those based on disabilities and sincerely held religious beliefs, where such accommodations do not impose an undue burden on the business. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.