Harvest Lab Intern

SUMMARY: Harvest internships at our Silver Oak Alexander Valley facility are a wonderful opportunity to have a lot of fun and learn about winemaking while working alongside our small and talented winemaking team. We are dedicated to crafting ultra-premium Cabernet Sauvignon with a focus on producing our Silver Oak Alexander Valley label. The Harvest Lab position is responsible for assisting in all analysis with a concentration on quality. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

HARVEST: 

Under the supervision of the Assistant Winemaker

• Sample and process grape maturity samples.
• Perform manual and automated analysis of all juice and wines which may include enzymatic analysis of residual sugar, malic acid, ammonia, and YAN.
• Prepare reagents and standards.
• Calibrate lab equipment.
• Pull samples from tanks or barrels and complete analysis requested by Winemaker, Cellar Master, Enologist.
• Detailed record keeping of all analysis including experimental lots.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Commitment to excellence and high standards.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and analytical skills
• Ability to manage priorities and workflow.
• Versatility, flexibility, and a willingness to work within constantly changing priorities with enthusiasm.
• Acute attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as a member of various teams and committees.
• Proficient on: Microsoft Office, including Excel, MS Word
• Proven ability to handle multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work on complex projects with general direction and minimal guidance.
• Working knowledge of laboratory instrumentation and troubleshooting, and wine laboratory analysis.
• Ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to understand all safety requirements and cautions.
• Knowledge of wines and wine production.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret technical procedures.
• Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions.
• Experience with Vintrace is a plus.
• Prior harvest experience is preferred.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to do the following:
  • Walk, kneel, bend, and stand.
  • Stand for extended periods of time.
  • Lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
  • Climb stairs.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Work is mainly performed both in a normal lab environment and in the cellar where there may be varying temperature conditions. The ability to stand and walk on concrete floors, catwalks, wet or uneven ground may be required.
• Work will also be performed in the vineyard where there may be varying temperature conditions and uneven ground.
• Noise levels are usually moderate but may be moderate to high at times.
• Floors may be wet and slippery, proper footwear is required.
• Work may include handling caustic/corrosive chemicals.

The above reflects 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.