Lab Technician

Req ID: 7007 

Department: Winemaking 

Status: Reg F-T Non-Exempt, Nonexempt  

Location: St Helena, California (US-CA)  

Workplace Location:  On-Site

Job Summary:

The Lab Technician plays a vital role in supporting the Winemaking department by performing analytical tests on wine and grape components. This position ensures product quality, safety, and compliance with industry standards, contributing directly to the success of Trinchero Family Estates.

Essential Functions:

The following duties reflect management’s definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned.  Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.

• Collect and analyze samples of grape juice and fermenting wine for pH, titratable acidity (TA), brix, and nutritional content.
• Sample and conduct analyses on bottled and stored wines using laboratory instruments such as Gas Chromatograph, Alcolyzer, pH Meter, Spectrophotometer, Autotitrator, and CO₂ and Enzymatic Analyzers.
• Accurately interpret and record analytical results, adhering to strict documentation and record-keeping protocols.
• Prepare chemical solutions (acids, bases, buffers, reference standards) as needed for laboratory analyses.
• Prioritize and manage multiple sample requests and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Maintain a clean and organized workstation.
• Work safely while complying with all personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements (lab coat, footwear, ear plugs, safety glasses).
• Understand and follow the Food Safety and Quality Management System, including SQF standards.
• Report any problems with the food safety system to the supervisor.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in the sciences or relevant experience (5+ years) required.
• Related science degree preferred. Coursework in enology or familiarity with winemaking and an appreciation of wine a plus.
• One or more years in similar position or in an academic laboratory environment.
• Valid California driver's license required, with a driving record that meets company standards.

Skills:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Proven ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Attention to detail and time management.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities.

Working Conditions:

• Moderate physical work with some outdoor exposure.
• Extensive walking and lifting of up to 55 pounds.
• Work site may be any one of Trinchero Family Estates’ facilities.
• Flexibility to work various shifts, including early morning, swing, and graveyard up to and including weekends during Harvest.
• Long and irregular hours during peak periods that may exceed 40 hours per week during harvest.
• Standing for long periods of time (8 hours per day).
• Comply with all safety and personal protective equipment requirements including lab coat, footwear, ear plugs and safety glasses.
• Exposure to various chemicals, forklifts, machinery and moving parts in lab and production areas.

Salary Range: $23.05 -  $28.15  

The starting pay will be based on several factors, including but not limited to experience, training, education, and geographic location. TFE offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance coverage, disability benefits, PTO, wellness programs and fertility and family building benefits.   We also provide a 401(k) plan where TFE may make a discretionary profit-sharing contribution.

Trinchero Family Estates provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Trinchero Family Estates complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. 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.