Fixed-Term Laboratory Technician

We’re looking for Laboratory Technician for approx. 11 months fixed-term to cover parental leave.

The Laboratory Technician reports to the Laboratory Manager and works closely with the winemakers. They are responsible (in conjunction with the Laboratory Manager) for all the daily laboratory requirements to assist the winemaking team.

Some key responsibilities include:

• Laboratory analysis of grape samples / juice / ferments / wine as per the lab analysis schedule and as requested
• Notify winemakers of results which appear to be out of specification
• Preparing routine wine trials (fining trials, dosage trials, blending trials)
• Sampling of tanks / barrels for analysis and tastings
• Preparation of laboratory reagents and standards
• Early starts as required (e.g. bottling, tirage)
• Finding and reporting any microbiological concerns
• Use of winery software and spreadsheets for data entry
• Calibration, maintenance and upkeep of laboratory equipment, reporting issues to Laboratory Manager
• Assist the setup of new equipment.

Vintage:

• Grape maturity analysis and data entry
• Fermentation tracking and data entry (fermentation graphs, mastersheet and vintrace software)
• Complete final analysis of juice samples
• Train and direct casual vintage staff (laboratory, cellar and vineyard) as required
• Shift work, up to 12 hours 6 days per week.

Requirements

• Experience working in a winery laboratory or other food technology laboratory
• PC based document and spreadsheet skills to an excellent level of competence
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Analytical and decision-making skills
• Achievement driven and solution focused
• Attention to detail
• Enthusiastic and energetic team contributor

Desirable, but not essential:

• Tertiary undergraduate qualifications in a chemistry or food science
• Experience working in a cellar