Laboratory and Cellar Technician - Jackson Triggs

Job Description:

At Arterra Wines Canada, we love inspiring the big and small moments that happen when our products are shared and enjoyed. For us it’s not just about what’s in and on the bottle, it’s what happens in people’s lives when we’re a part of them that keeps us thirsting for more and not resting on our laurels as Canada’s largest and most enjoyed wine company. We put the consumer at the center of everything we do and we’re looking for people who do the same.

The Laboratory and Cellar Technician is a hybrid role responsible for both performing all cellar related activities and analyzing samples (grapes, must, ferment, product and packaging) timely and accurately in a fast-paced production environment. This role requires an understanding of the winemaking process, quality assurance and accurate data recording.

Responsibilities:

1. Organizing the intake of grapes/juice/ferment/finished wine and packing samples, prioritize and analyzing each on a variety of chemical and other analysis and accurately record the data. Some data are compared to specifications and standards and nonconformance is reported to their manager, production supervisors or winemakers. All test results are accurately recorded on hardcopies and/or JDE Red Blend for easy access and traceability and adhering to ISO standards. Will be the lead HACCP trained individual at each site, maintaining, always updating and keeping the site compliant.
2. Analysis are performed on laboratory equipment ranging from simple to highly sophisticated technology. This role is responsible for maintaining, calibrating and running the equipment and test apparatus in a safe and productive way to guarantee reliability of result.
3. This role is responsible for performing all cellar related activities as part of the winemaking process. Work tickets to be completed to maintain bottling schedule as required. Transfer of incoming bulk wine and processing to bottle.
4. In addition to equipment this role uses various laboratory chemicals and consumables to perform test. It is their responsibility to purchase, and replenish these chemicals and consumables using and sourcing reputable suppliers. This role also prepares chemicals to customized concentrations for the test required. Safe handling, storing and shelf life is critical in maintaining these items.
5. Based on a set of analysis compared to specifications this role approves bottling lines for start-up and running, ensuring that bottled products are within required specification. This role also verifies that some running/bottling parameters on the bottling line are met (ex. lot application, fill volume).

What You Bring:

1. Post-secondary education in Chemical Engineering, Chemical technologist/technician or related disciplines with detailed knowledge of common laboratory practices and procedures.
2. Minimum 1-2 years’ experience in a premium winery/laboratory testing environment.
3. Strong ability to follow written instructions, while working independently.
4. Effective communication skills with strong people skills.
5. Strong attention to detail.
6. Multi-tasking.
7. Team player.
8. Mechanical aptitude.
9. Exposure to Production environment.
10. Food and Beverage environment.
11. Auditing experience.
12. Working experience of ISO, HACCP and any of the Continuous improvement process is preferred (Lean, Six Sigma, 20 Keys).

Working Environment:

1. Cellar based role with a strong focus on sparkling wine, QC and laboratory analysis.
2. Three shift rotational work may be required.
3. This position may require physical effort which entails lifting and moving up to and including 50lbs.
4. Some tasks involve being in a noisy production (bottling /cellars) environment.
5. Must be able and willing to work overtime as required.
6. Must be able to work alone (some shifts you work alone).

What we offer:

1. Competitive wage and bonus.
2. Benefits and Pension Plan.
3. Product Allowance.
4. An organization that cares about Corporate Social Responsibility.
5. Training & Development Programs.
6. An opportunity to learn about the world of wine.

We are committed to establishing a qualified workforce that reflects the diverse population it serves and we encourage applications from all qualified individuals. We are also committed to preventing and removing barriers to employment for people with disabilities, and we invite you to inform us should you have any accessibility or accommodation needs.