Methods Development and Technical Support Quality Associate - Ripon

JOB SUMMARY

The Quality Associate for Methods Development and Technical Support takes on higher-level responsibilities in analytical chemistry analysis with a focus on analytical methods optimization, building new methods, researching, and employing new generation of technology ensuring improved analytical precision and overall lab efficiency. The Quality Associate is required also to update training documents in the event of changes to analytical methods and the roll out of new methods. Additionally, the Quality Associate is a subject matter expert in specific areas on the Analytical side. The Quality Associate must effectively manage their time to ensure both the daily lab responsibilities and their Quality Associate responsibilities are completed such that the lab meets or exceeds the expectations and requirements of our varied customers, both internal and external. Quality Associate will effectively communicate and collaborate with the many functional areas within TWG, as well as across facilities, and as appropriate, with outside suppliers/vendors, customers, co-packers, and /or regulatory bodies.

• Develop and qualify product specification, chemistry methods, enology, bulk wine export methods, software/computer utilization compatible with the new methods, non-conforming product processes, lab safety program and shelf-life projects.
• Assess and perform processes for analytical instrumentation.
• Perform analytical analysis at all stages of the winemaking process from grape samples to consumer complaints utilizing appropriate methods/instrumentation per created SOPs.
• Ensure data validation for precision and accuracy before publishing data for customers.
• Measure and monitor analytical methods for precision and accuracy through control charts.
• Perform bottling/export approval, report processes and create certificate of analysis.
• Make quality and process improvement suggestions and follow through to implement as appropriate.
• Identify and resolve issues and take appropriate action on non-conforming product.
• Capture clear, concise, accurate data and information.
• Monitor, maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot common issues with lab equipment and instrumentation.
• Participate in our lab and corporate safety programs including following all safety protocols and procedures.
• Participate in safety programs, activities, including delivering safety trainings on a variety of topics and recognize and report hazards and take appropriate action to keep everyone safe.
• Communicate and collaborate with colleagues, within the team, the facility and across all functional areas the lab interacts with.
• Exhibit leadership, initiative, strong critical thinking skills and effective time management with the ability to manage projects/processes from start through to completion, while also contributing to the team effectively completing the core day to day responsibilities.
• Demonstrate ownership of core processes and ensure team goals/responsibilities are met.
• Provide the necessary technical support to facilitate timely and successful completion of projects/processes as assigned.
• Perform work that is varied and somewhat difficult/challenging, but usually involves guidance from management.
• Provide guidance/training to lower level or less experienced lab technicians and as directed, persons from cellar or operations on appropriate lab related functions.
• Recognize and investigate root-cause on simple to more complex issues, suggest further steps, present options for resolution and prevention.
• Stay up to date on best practices, current technology, and techniques through literature review, attending seminars/conferences, etc.
• Input and evaluate data, perform calculations to determine basic statistical parameters. Utilize technology; computers, and specific software for managing processes including JDE and Power BI.
• Maintain a TTB certified chemist status and sign COAs.
• Assist in investigating, resolving, and dispositioning finished product HOLDs.
• Participate in our lab and corporate safety programs following all safety protocols and procedures.
• Review results for work completed by two junior technicians on their shift and ensure timely completion of all tasks for the shift.
• Fill in for technician role to provide coverage when needed and perform all tasks associated with lab technician I, II and III responsibilities.
• Communicate and collaborate effectively with colleagues, within the team, the facility and across all functional areas the lab interacts with.
• Work as part of a team, set priorities, have integrity, a good attitude, perseverance, be flexible, coach, and hold others accountable to foster team development.
• Possess a sense of urgency, take initiative and work with the highest attention to detail.

• Bachelor's degree with a combined 20 college coursework units of chemistry, biology, and/or microbiology.
• Or High school diploma or State-issued equivalency certificate plus 4 years or 4 seasons of paid laboratory experience reflecting increasing levels of responsibilities; OR High school diploma or State-issued equivalency certificate plus 20 college coursework units of chemistry, biology, and/or microbiology plus 2 years of chemistry/microbiology laboratory experience.

• Must be able to frequently lift and carry weights of up to 50 pounds at varying frequencies.
• Possess the ability to work in a fast-paced production environment.
• Working environment is both indoors and outdoors, with exposure to related equipment and noise levels.
• Ability to perform tasks requiring bending, stooping, standing, and twisting in the performance of various task in the production environment.
• Must be able to repeatedly climb 20 feet tank stairs/vertical tank ladders.

• Hourly Pay Rate Posted: $26.50/hr.

At The Wine Group, we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and we are committed to an environment of mutual respect, diversity and inclusion. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristic protected by law.

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