Lab Technician (Wine Jobs: Vineyards & Cellars )

About Frind Estate Winery

Established in 2017 with the purchase of the historic Bennett property in West Kelowna, Frind Estate Winery blends agriculture with technological opportunity. Markus Frind’s family has a farming history spanning 500 years, both in Germany and northern BC. After the successful sale of plentyoffish.com, Markus is focusing his efforts on pairing technology with agriculture to produce terroir-driven British Columbia wines of exceptional quality.

Position Overview

The Lab Technician works closely with the Winemaking Team and communicates regularly with Management. You will be involved in all cellar operations including lab work, administration, scheduling, sensory analysis and equipment and systems operations. The successful candidate will be provided with and should aspire to ever-increasing challenges and levels of responsibility.

Core Duties and Responsibilities

• Learn, follow and contribute to occupational Health & Safety procedures, including COVID-19 protocols.
• Ensure clean and organized environment in lab and office.
• Understanding the theory of operation and be aware of their condition.
• Contribute to the improvements of lab techniques and operations including developing and conducting analysis to ensure Quality Control of all aspects of production, including incoming raw materials, chemical intermediaries, ongoing testing between harvest to final product bottling.
• Analyze, synthesize, purify, modify and characterize chemical or biochemical compounds
• Prepare wines for trial blending / tastings.
• Manage lab inventory and supplies.
• Bottling line preparation, adjustments & ongoing Quality Control assessments.
• Engaging with cellar to oversee must/wine analysis and anticipate required lab work.
• Pay careful attention to upkeep and management of all lab equipment.
• Daily equipment checks ensuring proper calibration and operation.
• Manage lab priorities.
• Prepare and/or Update Lab SOP’s on a regular basis.
• Complete and submit VQA submissions on a timely basis.

• Conduct standard sampling and monthly analysis of wine inventory.
• Complete accurate documents for Fork Lift, Industrial First Aid, WHMIS.
• Wear appropriate safety wear, set an example and be safe.
• Work thoughtfully and efficiently to execute tasks and minimize expense.

Education/Experience

• Masters/Ph.D. in oenology, viticulture or science related field.
• Preference given to a candidate with previous experience.

Physical Requirements

This is a physically demanding position. You will be required to do the following:

• Climb and work at heights, work long hours while remaining positive and enthusiastic
• Work extended hours during harvest and occasional rush
• Walk, kneel, bend, and stand throughout the day
• Taste and smell
• Lift up to 15-20kgs
• Lift, carry and operate heavy equipment

*Only candidates with legal working rights in Canada will be considered.