Job Description
Job Description:
Position Summary
Dominus Estate seeks a Temporary Lab Manager to lead laboratory operations during a defined maternity leave period. This role ensures continuity, accuracy, and reliability across all analytical and data systems, while actively supporting winemaking decisions through harvest and post-harvest.
The position combines independent execution with close collaboration with the Winemaker, and includes direct supervision of two harvest interns. The emphasis is on maintaining the rigor and consistency of existing systems, while navigating the increased pace and complexity of harvest.
A transition period with the current Lab Manager will be provided to ensure continuity.
Core Responsibilities
1. Laboratory Operations
• Execute all established analytical protocols and procedures with precision and consistency
• Maintain accurate, complete, and well-organized records of all analyses
• Calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment
• Validate results and re-run analyses when outside expected parameters
• Cross-check internal results with external labs (ETS, JPM) as needed
• Maintain laboratory cleanliness, organization, and safety standards
• Monitor and manage inventory of lab supplies, reagents, and chemicals
• Communicate promptly with the Winemaker regarding any anomalies or concerns
2. Routine Laboratory Analyses
Perform and oversee all standard wine analyses, including:
• pH, Total Acidity, Free SO2, Volatile Acidity
• Residual Sugar, Malic Acid, Nitrogen/Ammonia
• Alcohol (Alcolyzer)
• NTU (turbidity)
• Phenolic analysis (A280, Anthocyanins)
• CO2, Brix
• Microbiological observations (microscope, PCR where applicable)
Key recurring responsibilities:
• Monthly monitoring of Volatile Acidity and Free SO2 on all aging lots
• Full analytical panels at rackings (approximately every three months)
• Harvest and malolactic monitoring according to analysis calendar
3. Harvest Laboratory Leadership
• Lead all laboratory operations during harvest
• Coordinate sampling logistics with cellar team
• Ensure timely processing and reporting of high-volume harvest samples
• Maintain data accuracy under increased workload and time pressure
• Prioritize analyses critical to picking decisions and fermentation monitoring
4. Sampling and Data Management
• Coordinate and perform sampling of tanks, barrels, and fermentations
• Work closely with cellar team to ensure timely and accurate sample collection
• Record all analytical data in vintage logs and internal tracking systems
• Maintain consistency and traceability of all data
5. Winemaking Support
• Participate in daily cellar and harvest meetings
• Calculate and confirm wine additions under direction of the Winemaker
• Monitor lots proactively based on stage and recent interventions
• Conduct sensory evaluation for potential wine defects
• Prepare samples for internal tastings and external needs
6. Inventory and Traceability
• Enter and maintain work orders in cellar tracking systems
• Support intermediate and monthly bulk inventory processes
• Ensure traceability in coordination with Cellar Master
• Participate in physical inventory as required
7. Bottling Support (if applicable during term)
• Perform pre-bottling analyses
• Prepare bottling work orders
• Support bottling logistics and coordination
• Monitor quality control during bottling
• Record and reconcile bottling data and inventories
8. Intern Management (2 Harvest Interns)
• Train interns in sampling protocols, analytical methods, and data entry
• Organize daily schedules and prioritize workload
• Supervise accuracy and consistency of work
• Maintain a structured and efficient workflow during harvest
• Provide clear direction while fostering accountability and learning
Qualifications
• BS in Enology, Fermentation Science, or related scientific field
• 3 to 5 years of hands-on winery laboratory experience
• Demonstrated experience supporting harvest operations
• Strong working knowledge of wine laboratory equipment and analytical methods
• Proficiency in Excel and data management systems
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple priorities under time-sensitive conditions
• Capacity to work both independently and collaboratively
Schedule and Compensation
• Temporary, Full-time, non-exempt with a range of $31- $33, depending on experience
• Start date - Immediately
• Paid Vacation, Sick, and Holiday
Profile
• Organized, precise, and detail-oriented
• Proactive and self-directed
• Calm and steady under pressure
• Practical and solutions-oriented
• Strong sense of accountability
• Professional and discreet
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Important Note on Scope
This is a temporary role focused on continuity and execution.
The objective is to maintain the integrity of established systems and standards during a critical period, including harvest.
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Transition
A structured handover period with the current Lab Manager will be provided to ensure clarity, alignment, and continuity prior to the leave.
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Job Tags
Full time, Temporary work, Internship, Immediate start