Job Description
Job Description:
JOB SUMMARY
With a strong focus on providing high quality wine, the Assistant Winemaker assists in all aspects of winemaking, cellar workers, and processes under the leadership of the Winemaker. The Assistant Winemaker works closely with the Cellar Master and laboratory to prioritize tasks and coordinate work orders.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The following reflects management’s definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. To perform this job successfully, an individual must have regular and reliable attendance and be able to perform each essential function from the list below satisfactorily, with or without accommodation, and carry out all duties in a confidential manner at all times.
• Manage daily operations of projects and processes, including analysis and execution
• Foster effective communication with other departments in collaboration with the Winemaker
• Coordinate and oversee activities related to winemaking inventory, preparation, and workload management
• Plan and prioritize the daily cellar workload in partnership with the Cellar Master, under the guidance of the Winemaker, aligning with winemaking objectives
• Generate and update work orders, providing real-time updates to the Winemaker on job progress
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date wine inventory records in Vintrace, ensuring all system data is correct
• Supervise laboratory quality control logs and ensure compliance with protocols
• Manage monthly SO2 and topping schedules in collaboration with lab analysis
• Support the Cellar Master with production training and staff development
• Coordinate and manage inventory and procurement of packaging supplies under the Winemaker's direction
• Regularly update and review the Inventory Work Out (IWO) worksheet to ensure accuracy
• Oversee and assist the Cellar Master in maintaining cellar-related logs, including safety and equipment maintenance
• Order consumables with prior approval from the Winemaker
• Direct bottling operations, ensuring efficient workflow and time management
• Assist in preparing, setting up, and participating in tastings with the consulting Winemaker, while representing the winery during tours and events as required
• Support the Winemaker in conducting employee performance reviews and developing capital requests
• Prepare trade samples, create trial blends, recommend wine quality improvements, and contribute to developing wine descriptors
• Act as weigh master when needed.
REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities)
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required.
• Extensive knowledge of wine production; vineyard management practices, blending, and filtration
• Knowledge of production safety and training required in a cellar and wine production/bottling facility
• Knowledge of effective supervisory and leadership techniques
• Motivation and ability to work collaboratively and independently
• Commitment to excellence and high standards
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and analytical skills
• Versatility, flexibility, and a willingness to work within constantly changing priorities with enthusiasm
• Acute attention to detail
• Proficient Use of Microsoft Office and other software required for the position
• Proven ability to handle multiple projects and meet deadlines
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to deal effectively with a diversity of individuals at all organizational levels
• Good judgement with the ability to make timely and sound decisions
• Creative, flexible, and innovative team player
• Experience with laboratory environment, equipment, and safety procedures
• Experience in research and development, including understanding of statistical analysis
• Ability and willingness to represent winery in the professional community
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Enology, Food Science, Chemistry or related field
• Experience: 1-3 years production winemaking experience
• Bilingual in English/Spanish desirable
ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
The physical requirements listed are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions and key responsibilities of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made upon request and in appropriate circumstances.
The ability to work in a constant state of alertness and in a safe manner at all times. Frequent operation of winemaking and cellar equipment as well as computer and other office equipment, the ability to sit at a workstation for periods of time; the ability to work in the vineyard and cellar; and the ability to stand, walk, climb stairs, bend, lift, twist, pull, push, carry, grasp, reach and stoop as needed, and to lift and carry items up to 50 pounds frequently during harvest season. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Ability to smell and taste wine blends for quality.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Company reasonably expects to pay in the range of $85k to 105k for this position. Of course, this is depending on several factors including, but not limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, shift, and business or organizational needs. This wage may be modified in the future.
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Job Tags
Full time, Flexible hours, Shift work,