LAB & WINEMAKING ASSOCIATE

The Lab and Winemaking Associate will provide analytical information to the winemaker to help ensure quality in all aspects of the winemaking process. During harvest the Winemaking Associate is responsible for all field sampling of ripening fruit, processing these samples in a timely manner and other winemaking needs reporting results to the Winemaker. During the balance of the year (non-harvest) the position will continue with lab work as needed and other aspects of winemaking as needed by the Winemaker. This role includes monthly QC and bottling QC.

Compensation: $21.00 hourly + DOE

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform daily chemical and microbiological lab analyses on juice/wine samples.
• Conduct and record daily brix & temperature measurements during fermentation.
• Prepare reagents necessary for performing chemical tests.
• Set up bench lab trials as needed by winemaker.
• Calibrate and trouble shoot analytical instruments, such as FOSS and pH meter.
• Conduct chemical and fining trials on wines as directed by winemaker.
• Assist winemaker in sensory and tasting trials to gain knowledge.
• Assist in developing and writing laboratory protocols to increase efficiency and accuracy.
• Implementation of existing analytical practices and contributes to their further development.
• Perform grape cluster samplings for yield determination in conjunction with the vineyard supervisor.
• Field sampling of ripening fruit, processing samples and reporting results to the Winemaker.
• Responsible for the Monthly QC of bulk and barrel wine analysis as directed by the winemaker.
• Assist winemaker in SO2 and topping plan in conjunction with the Monthly QC
• Responsible for lab chemical inventory and for re-ordering chemicals.
• Maintain a professional, clean and orderly laboratory.
• Keep accurate records of all laboratory analysis performed.
• Vintrace database work order and/or analysis entry as needed as directed by winemaker.
• Responsible for bottling QC to include final wine analysis, tank prep (dissolved O2 and CO2), package evaluation, fill height, vacuum and sterility checks.
• Perform monthly bulk inventory check in collaboration with accounting department.
• Process POs as needed for laboratory.
• Maintain SDS chemical binders for lab and winemaking.
• Maintain CCSW certification annually and coordinate audit.
• Support accounting department for transfers in bond paperwork to aid in TTB filings.
• Assist winemaker in coordination bottling, scheduling temporary workers, ordering materials, safety training and managing the line during bottling.
• Any other duties as required or directed by winemaker with regard to the Laboratory and winemaking.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to treat all associates and guests in a respectful manner.
• Exhibit integrity (honesty and truthfulness).
• Quality and performance driven, seeks perfection with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to lift 50lbs.
• Ability to work standing up for several hours at time.
• Ability to work overtime and weekends, especially during harvest.
• Must show initiative, discipline and focus to start a project, follow the procedures and finish all the details.
• Excellent oral and written communication and organizational skills.
• Understand and adheres to the Ponte values and service standards.
• Follow all winemaking standard operating procedures.
• Follow all safety standards and policies to ensure the safety of individual, guests and associates.
• Basic knowledge of winemaking, different wine styles and varietals and/or willingness to learn.