Laboratory Technician (Wine Jobs: Vineyards & Cellars )

  Don Sebastiani & Sons

  Napa, California

Position Summary

The Laboratory Technician performs chemical analyses and product quality assessments on our wines. This position works directly with Winemaking, Cellars and Production.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Performs all routine analyses of musts and wines in a timely and accurate manner. Analyses include: Free sulfur dioxide, total sulfur dioxide, titratable acidity, pH, alcohol, residual sugar, malic acid, volatile acidity, turbidity, density, dissolved oxygen, carbon dioxide, conductivity, protein stability
• Performs packaging audits on the bottling lines, including cork extraction, torque measurement, headspace vacuum, microbiological plating, package appearance evaluation, equipment pressures, non-conformities evaluation
• Actively maintains a clean, orderly, and safe laboratory work area while observing all safety rules
• Prepares and maintains accurate records of all analyses and quality assurance audits
• Collects samples for analysis and trials
• Prepares microbiology and sensory evaluations
• Communicates any “out of range” results to cellar lead and winemaking team
• Assists in identifying non-conforming product or materials
• Abides by all HACCP and ISO programs as part of DSS compliance
• Enters data and maintains data files
• Utilizes specific software for managing processes including Microsoft Excel and Outlook

Education/Experience/Skills

• Associate’s Degree in a scientific discipline (Enology or Chemistry preferred) or equivalent education and work history
• One to two years minimum basic laboratory experience required
• Good understanding of laboratory methodology
• Working knowledge of MS Office

Physical Requirements

• Requires ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds
• Requires ability to stand for prolonged periods of time
• Requires sufficient good health to properly discharge duties

In closing: DSS offers a competitive salary as well as a comprehensive benefits package including a choice of Traditional HMO Health Plans or High Deductible Health Plans paired with a generous employer funded Health Savings Account along with Dental and Vision benefits. Other offerings include Flexible Spending Accounts with Medical and Dependent Care pre-tax benefits (FSA), Life Insurance, Long Term Disability, and an Employee Assistance Program. Additionally we have a 401K and Profit Sharing Plan, paid time off (PTO), paid holidays, wine gifts, wine discounts and fun events throughout the year.

NOTE: DSS complies with all the employment provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act.