Production Lab Technician (Wine Jobs: Vineyards & Cellars )

Full Time

  LangeTwins Family Winery & Vineyards

  Acampo, California

The accuracy of wine analysis is an important tool to maintain the health and quality of the wines made at LangeTwins winery by generating actionable information used by the Winemaking team. This position is responsible for running analytical equipment and performing wine chemistry. The completed analysis should be accurate and reproducible based on a review of past wine history, the use of control standards and proper laboratory techniques. The analysis list will be derived from work done in the cellar, a weekly schedule or as directed by Winemaking. This position will be cross-trained with the QC Bottling Technician and act as back up to this job when needed. The Technician will inform Winemaking/Cellar of any issues which may affect the accuracy of wine analysis. Be an active and positive part of the Winemaking team. Strong organizational, communication, teamwork, attention to detail and computer skills are required. Conduct job duties following all safety and PPE requirements.

Job Responsibility

  • Review Cellar work orders and generate daily sample list for lab analysis
  • Pull wine samples from tanks/barrels
  • Clearly and accurately fill-out all forms or documents generated from lab analysis. Complete all forms daily and distribute as needed
  • Convert lab analysis results to reportable numbers and review for accuracy
  • Post results into an Excel spreadsheet, review against prior analysis. After review, lab analysis is posted into AMS
  • Conduct all lab activities and analysis in a timely and accurate method following Lab protocols and safety procedures
  • Be trained and familiar with all Production Lab analytical processes and techniques
  • Run all Lab start-up tasks (Set up/control samples/etc.) and review for out of specification results. Conduct lab work with a high level of accuracy and reproducibility
  • Notify winemaking regarding any issues that may affect accuracy of lab analysis
  • Monitor and review lab supplies to ensure adequate inventories and continuous operation
  • Maintain all lab equipment using a daily/weekly/monthly calendar to insure the proper running and consistent accuracy of each piece.
  • Maintain a good working relationship with key vendors/suppliers
  • Be flexible in job responsibilities and work schedules. Accept work outside of the job description
  • General housekeeping to keep lab area clean and clear
  • Follow all safety requirement and PPE usage

Analytical Equipment

A list of laboratory equipment the Technician is required to be proficient in functional process, running and maintenance. See “Wine Analysis” sheet for a list of tests done by Technician

  • Technician will read the operations manual and understand the proper use of each piece of equipment.
  • Understand the need for using control samples. Run control sample(s) as required by equipment protocols and review results against prior analysis to monitor accuracy, lab technique and insure reproducibility of results
  • The lab sample conditions or external factors that may affect the analysis should be understood and managed to minimize errors and increase accuracy and reproducibility of results
  • They should have the ability to trouble-shoot and adjust as needed to maintain accuracy.
  • Assist in reviewing/developing/updating procedures and protocols for existing and new equipment
  • A calendar of scheduled maintenance using Outlook/Excel/etc. will be maintained and kept up to date.
  • Maintenance will be done using either in-house personnel or the equipment manufacturer

1. Mettler Toledo Auto-Titrator

2. Mettler Toledo pH meter

3. Check Stab

4. Anton Paar Alcoholizer with Automated Sampler

5. Anton Paar Densitometer

6. Astoria Pacific Analyzer

7. Orion Nephelometer

8. Adjustable re-pipets

Qualifications & Experience

  • B.S. degree in Fermentation Science, Food Science or a field of related degree/production or experience in a related field
  • Production winery experience: harvest/lab
  • Knowledge of fundamentals of wine production, wine chemistry, lab analysis techniques, viticulture, grape varieties
  • Ability to work independently as well as in collaboration with others
  • Willing to work with a flexible schedule and extended hours when needed
  • Computer proficiency: MS Word/Excel/Experience with a winemaking database a plus
  • Math proficiency: ratios, percentages, fraction, algebra
  • Proficient in English reading/writing/communication
  • Valid driver’s license and clean DMV record
  • Required to lift and move product/equipment weighing up to 45 lbs.
  • Skilled in writing business correspondence, reports, procedure manuals

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand for extended period of time, use hands to finger/handle/feel, use computer, talk and hear. The employee is regularly required to walk, reach with hands and arms, and bend at mid-waist. The employee must lift up to 50 lbs. on a regular basis. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. Must be able to detect, distinguish, and determine tastes and smells.

In addition, the setting for this job is within a general manufacturing plant environment. The employee is usually in an indoor setting such as a lab, cellar, or bottling area and will frequently ascend/descend stairs and work atop catwalk with exposure to outdoor conditions. Working conditions in certain areas of the winery are cold, wet, slippery and noisy. This position will have exposure to various chemicals in production areas and to machinery, forklifts, and related production equipment. The employee will work irregular shifts and long hours may be required.

This is a full time position. Our company offers a very competitive salary with a comprehensive benefits package.

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