Job Description
Job Overview:
Bogle Family Wine Collection (BFWC) is located in the heart of the AVA of Clarksburg, California, and is run by the sixth generation of Bogles, who live and work in the Sacramento Delta region. Bogle was honored as Wine Enthusiast’s 2019 American Winery of the Year and CAWG’s 2022 Grower of the Year for our sustainability efforts in the winery and vineyards. Our work is guided by a commitment to family, sustainability, the vineyards, winemaking, and our employees, many of whom have been with us for decades. These pillars shape how we operate, collaborate, and produce wines we are proud to share. We are family-owned and operated and are committed to preserving our family business and its culture.
Position Summary:
The Wine Lab Technician I supports the winemaking process by performing routine laboratory analyses and quality control testing to ensure the production of high-quality wines. This entry-level role involves assisting in the monitoring of chemical, microbiological, and sensory parameters throughout the winemaking process, maintaining accurate records, and adhering to safety and sanitation protocols. The technician works under close supervision of the lab manager, senior lab technician(s), and the winemaking team to contribute to consistent product quality and regulatory compliance.
Essential Functions:
- Perform a wide range of laboratory analyses to monitor product quality from grape intake through bottling, following established procedures, including but not limited to: Monitoring primary and secondary fermentations, conducting quantitative and qualitative analysis of incoming fruit, and performing chemical analyses including SO₂, pH, TA, VA, ML, RS, and cold and heat stability testing.
- Learn and apply core laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and proper sample handling techniques.
- Collect tank and barrel samples of juice, fermenting must and finished wine for analysis and tasting.
- Support laboratory setup and cleanup, including preparation and standardization of reagents.
- Develop an understanding of wine production processes and how laboratory data informs winemaking decisions.
Qualifications:
- Formal training or a degree in Chemistry, Microbiology, Viticulture & Enology, or a related field.
- Minimum of one year of laboratory experience; prior experience in a wine production setting is a plus.
- Ability to multitask and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Self-motivated with strong organizational skills and attention to detail; able to prioritize tasks and meet time constraints.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
- An understanding of one's own learning style or a willingness to develop one.
- Dependable, flexible, reliable, punctual, and committed to maintaining a high-quality standard.
- Team oriented mindset with a willingness to assist team members.
- Adherence to all established health and safety protocols.
Working Conditions:
Work takes place in winery production facility environments including cellars, barrel rooms, tank farms, laboratories, bottling facilities, and offices. The lab contains hazardous chemicals. Regular exposure to varying temperatures, noise, moisture, cleaning chemicals, and production equipment. Computer-based tasks are in a normal office environment.
Physical Requirements:
Extended hours required during harvest, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays. Shift may extend standard workweeks to support fermentation management, fruit processing, and operational demands. Must be able to frequently lift and carry a minimum of 55 pounds and perform prolonged walking, sitting, bending, twisting, and standing, as well as safely working at heights on barrel ladders and catwalks. The physical requirements listed are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential duties and key responsibilities of this position.
Benefits:
Employer-sponsored medical, dental, and vision plans, voluntary supplemental plans, 401(k) employer-match, Paid Time Off, paid holidays, employee discounts, and more.
Compensation:
$23 per hour
Individual offers are made contingent upon a candidate's prior experience and education level as they relate to the role. Job offers are contingent upon successfully passing pre-employment screenings, which include a standard 8-panel drug test and a comprehensive background check.
