Research Associate - Innovation

Job Description - Research Associate, Innovation

Summary:

Under the direction of the Research Manager, Winemaking Technical Services, this position will provide technical and logistical support for winemaking trials and innovations, chemical and sensory analysis, and winery process improvements across the company. This position requires a hands‑on approach, a high level of organization, creative problem solving, and attention to technical detail in both laboratory and production environments. Responsibilities vary over the course of the year according to the natural cycle of the winemaking process and the dynamic needs of the company.

The Winemaking Technical Services team is part of the Sustainable Winemaking group at Jackson Family Wines.

The location for this position will be split between a winery in Santa Rosa and a winery in Sonoma, with occasional travel to other North Coast wineries and vineyards.

• Conduct winemaking and wine processing trials in both research- and commercial winery environments
• Perform all winery cellar operations, including monitoring and managing fermentations, juice and wine racking, sanitation, and hand-bottling
• Perform bench- and pilot‑scale trials to support new product development
• Perform and interpret advanced chemical analysis on wine (GC‑QQQ, LC‑Orbitrap) as needed for trials and research projects
• Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the WTS laboratory and winery
• Research and evaluate new technologies, materials, processes, and products for their potential to improve wine quality, operational efficiencies, and sustainability
• Assist with sensory panel design and coordination
• Collaborate and coordinate with teams across the company
• Occasional travel between North Coast wineries and vineyards

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in a scientific or technical field, including but not limited to Enology & Viticulture, Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, Geology, or Environmental Science
• At least two years’ experience in wine production or analysis (experience in both cellar and laboratory environments is strongly preferred)
• Strong working knowledge of wine chemistry, microbiology, and production
• Intermediate to advanced computer skills in Word and Excel
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
• This position requires the ability to stand for long periods of time, occasionally reach with hands and arms, occasionally sit, walk, climb, stoop, or kneel, as well as the ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs

The annual salary for this role ranges from $70,000 - $85,000. Compensation will be determined by candidate experience, skills, and location.

• Health Benefits – Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability & Life insurance
• 401k with employer match
• Generous time off including vacation, holidays, and paid health time
• Paid volunteer time
• Learning & Development opportunities
• Modern Health virtual mental health & coaching visits
• Wine discounts!

Jackson Family Wines is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. All employment decisions are based on merit and business needs.