Discover Gloria Ferrer Winery, where it’s more than a wine, it’s a feeling!
Find your place at Gloria Ferrer, where our vineyards stretch over 300 acres of Estate Vineyards in the stunning Los Carneros region of Sonoma. Whether you're passionate about viticulture, a hospitality expert, or a pro in production, Gloria Ferrer offers an energetic and forward-thinking environment that values fun, creativity, and a shared love for exceptional wines.
At Gloria Ferrer, every role is important to our success and every day presents a chance to innovate, grow, and enjoy the fruits of our labor, quite literally! We pride ourselves on being a community that stays true to its roots, commits to sustainability, embraces innovation, and fosters a culture grounded in respect, integrity, passion and excellence. At Gloria Ferrer we laugh together, work hard together, and raise a glass together.
SUMMARY
The Lab Technician conducts chemical and microbiological analyses essential for quality control, process control, and product development. This role requires a strong attention to detail and comfort with repetitive tasks, recognizing the importance of consistency in ensuring the highest standards of product quality and safety. Additionally, this role provides technical support for all bottling equipment and packaging techniques, contributing significantly to the winery's reputation for producing exceptional wines.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Bottling Line Responsibilities
- Responsible for line startup for both Disgorging & Tirage lines, including assisting Cellar with required analysis to start production without delays.
- Routinely performs scheduled Disgorging / Tirage line audit checks. Records data into SharePoint for audit tracking.
- Responsible for line startup and QC for all still wine bottling.
- Monitors pressure and vacuum settings and performance on various pieces of bottling equipment on both Disgorging & Tirage lines.
- Monitors corker performance by checking headspace vacuum and cork integrity.
- Monitors crown capper performance by checking for adequate seal and seal integrity via pressure testing.
- Analyzes and records all fill weight volumes to ensure they fall within adequate TTB and Gloria Ferrer specifications.
- Inspects bottle and case labels for accuracy and compliance.
Laboratory Responsibilities
- Conducts routine chemical analysis. Records analytical data in appropriate logs in InnoVint and SharePoint
- Sample tank and barrel lots for tastings and analysis.
- Performs daily tirage or disgorging quality control
- Assembles trial blends and sets up/ breaks down production tastings.
- Cleans and sterilizes laboratory equipment.
- Keeps the lab area in a clean and organized fashion.
Other Responsibilities
- Assists with yeast build ups, analysis, and culture health.
- Performs harvest duties as determined by Winemaker. These duties may differ significantly from normal year-round responsibilities.
- Other duties as assigned, adapting to evolving business needs.
QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform each essential duty. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Must be a team player and able to prioritize safety, sustainability, and quality.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
- Associate degree (A. A.) from accredited Junior College; or one to two years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Knowledge of performance and characteristics of bottling lines and packaging requirements.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Coursework in analytical chemistry preferred and/or industrial experience.
- Ability to manipulate laboratory equipment and to use measurement instruments accurately.
- Exceptional attention to detail
- Spanish skills helpful but not required.
- Must have a valid driver’s license for vineyard travel.
- Must be at least 21 years of age.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that an employee must meet to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk, and listen. The employee frequently uses hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls, and reach with hands and arms.
- Must be able to work outdoors in extremes conditions, including heat, humidity, cold, and other inclement weather.
- Must be capable of walking on uneven terrain.
- Must be able to lift and carry items weighing up to 50 lbs. (case of wine)
- Must possess visual acuity sufficient to drive safely, recognize employees, distinguish different colors, and work on computers for extended periods.
- Must be able to work extended hours and weekends as needed.
- Must be able to endure repeated use of hands and sustain long periods of standing, sitting, walking and bending.
GENEROUS BENEFITS OFFERED
- Comprehensive health insurance options (medical, dental and vision)
- Flexible Savings Account and Health Saving Account, with contribution.
- Life Insurance, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
- 401K and Roth 401K plans, with matching contributions
- Paid Time Off (Holidays, Vacation and Sick)
- Paid Maternity and Paternity Leave
- Employee Assistance Program
- On-Site Winery Benefits
- Educational Assistance
- Recognition Programs
COMPENSATION
- $21.50 – $24.50 per hour plus KPI bonus. Final determination will be dependent on candidates overall skills and qualifications.
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer