Research Winemaker I

Responsibilities

• Coordinate research winemaking for faculty at the Wine Science Center
• Oversee all aspects of research winemaking production within the Viticulture and Enology department
• Manage the production of commercial wines under the department’s commercial and research winery license
• Maintain necessary regulatory compliance and reporting
• Support undergraduate education and training within the winery
• Perform data collection, analysis, and meticulous record-keeping

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree or higher in Viticulture and Enology or a related field
• Three years of experience in winemaking
• Understanding of experimental design and research protocols
• Ability to repetitively lift and carry up to 50 pounds
• Ability to obtain a forklift certification within 3 months of hire
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel
• Availability to work varied schedules, including beyond normal business hours during harvest season

Preferred Qualifications

• 3 to 5 years of experience with both practical and technical aspects of winemaking (harvest, fermentation, cellar work, and chemistry analysis)
• Bilingual in English and Spanish

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, life, and disability insurance
• Paid sick and vacation leave plus paid holidays
• Retirement and deferred compensation options
• Employee tuition waiver
• Training and development opportunities

About the Company

Washington State University is a premier land-grant university dedicated to academic excellence and innovative research. The Viticulture & Enology Department at the WSU Tri-Cities campus leads the way in wine science, providing cutting-edge research and educational opportunities that serve the global wine industry.