Enologist

Description

St. Francis Winery and Vineyards has an opening for an Enologist on our winemaking team. Under the general direction of our head Winemakers, the Enologist is responsible for daily activities related to the coordination of wine production through winegrowing, crush, fermentation, clarification, aging, blending and bottling. Responsibilities include analyzing wine, juice and vineyard samples from vine to bottle; maintaining bottling quality control by performing standard checks and analysis and completing required records; and examining grape samples to evaluate maturity, sweetness and acidity, verify sound condition and authenticate grape varieties.  

This is a regular, full-time exempt position with a Monday through Friday standard workweek. A flexible schedule and overtime are required to meet operational needs, especially during Harvest.

The anticipated pay range for this position is between $75,000 and $85,000 per year

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

·  Provides winemaking, technical and lab support to the Winemaking team, including coordinating daily activities related to wine production through all stages of the grape growing & winemaking process.

· Works directly with Winemakers and Production Management. 

· Performs sensory, chemical and microbiological analysis of wines, juices and musts as needed, interpreting results accurately and efficiently. 

· Participates in data collection and analysis for both grapes & wine; enters data and maintains the Winemaker’s database (Vintrace); and generates standard reports and other reports as requested.

· Assists with setting up blends and fining trials as directed by Winemaking. 

· Participate in developing and implementing winemaking protocols and standard operating procedures. 

· Performs on-site harvest responsibilities as determined by the winemaking team, including analysis and writing daily work orders for fermentation management.

· Assists in providing direction and/or training to regular and Harvest Cellar and Lab staff to ensure standard operating procedures are followed and the quality of wine is maintained.

· Coordinates with Winemaker(s) to ensure timely additions to all tanks at harvest.

· Ensures Winemaking directions and requirements are carried out when Winemakers are offsite, to winemaker specifics. 

· Assists Winemaker(s) with ordering necessary winemaking equipment and supplies on a year-round basis. 

· Collaborates on research into new technology, processes, procedures, materials and equipment. 

· Supports and demonstrates commitment to the Company’s sustainability and green initiatives/practices, including energy and resource efficiency, recycling programs, etc.

· Fully supports the Winery’s policies and procedures. 

· Fully supports the Winery’s commitment to the established Safety practices and policies.

· Special projects and other responsibilities as assigned.

Requirements

· B.S. in Enology, Fermentation Science, Chemistry, related field or equivalent combination of education and related experience. 

· Minimum of four years wine production or related winery experience.

· In-depth understanding of winemaking operations, including Lab, Bottling, Cellar, Crush and Winemaking technology. 

· Excellent organizational, verbal and written communication skills.

· Strong teamwork, project management, problem-solving and analytical skills.

· Ability to manage multiple priorities and workflow to achieve necessary results. 

· Flexibility and willingness to work within regularly changing priorities.

· Good knowledge and understanding of safety regulations.

· Computer proficiency in MS Office and winemaking software, preferably PC Blend.

· Valid CA driver’s license.

St. Francis Winery and Vineyards is an equal opportunity employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment. (EOE M/V/F/D)

Salary : $75,000 - $85,000