RESEARCH SCIENTIST

Develops and executes chemistry research strategies, programs, projects and experiments that contribute to improving viticulture, winemaking processes and wine quality. The focus of this position is to use technical expertise to drive the application of technology and innovation. Responsible for certain management tasks, including delegation of work to personnel and supporting the strategic planning process. This technical-track position provides advancement opportunity along the technical or management ladder. Promotional direction will depend upon the individual’s abilities, talents, and career interests, in conjunctional with organizational needs.

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Seeks and acts on opportunities to develop and apply new scientific technologies to improve commercial processes.

• Participates in decision making regarding research priorities of the company and to provide feasibility assessment of prospective projects.

• Develops project plans, designs experiments and outlines research procedures. Identifies and provides training to colleagues where necessary to carry out research.

• Plans schedule of research according to company’s timetable.

• Establishes routines necessary to meet project timetable

• Oversees and directs projects with short to long term focus.

• Identifies and implements collaborative opportunities that allow mutual benefits and strengthen Gallo’s competitive edge.

• Maintains awareness of cutting edge developments in chemical research and methodology for potential application in wine and grape processes.

• Identifies and resolves opportunities to strengthen chemistry skill base within Gallo.

• Prepares reports and presentations, effectively and professionally communicates findings to a broad audience including upper management, scientists and non-scientists.

• Takes responsibility for planning and executing projects during crush at site wineries. This may involve working at the site wineries for the duration of crush and taking responsibility for aspects of production.

• Responsible for understanding and complying with applicable quality, environmental and safety regulatory considerations. If accountable for the work of others, responsible for ensuring their understanding and compliance.

• Must maintain satisfactory attendance, to include timeliness.

• This job description reflects management's assignment of essential functions; it does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.

 

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assigns, monitors and reviews the progress and accuracy of assigned work.

• Provides input to management and/or may conduct performance evaluations; recommends salary adjustments; rewards employees or takes disciplinary action, as necessary; addresses complaints and resolves issues.

 

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Ph.D. in natural products chemistry, food or wine chemistry/science, organic chemistry or equivalent. Two or more years of relevant work experience or an equivalent and appropriate combination of BS or MS education and experience. An advanced degree is preferred.

 

SKILLS

• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret the most complex documents. Ability to respond effectively to the most sensitive inquiries or complaints. Ability to write speeches and articles using original or innovative techniques or style. Ability to make effective and persuasive speeches and presentations on controversial or complex topics to top management, public groups, and/or boards of directors.

• Computer skill requirements include intermediate MS Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint.

• Ability to type 35-40 wpm.

• Ability to comprehend and apply principles of advanced calculus, modern algebra, and advanced statistical theory. Ability to work with concepts such as limits, rings, quadratic and differential equations, and proofs of theorems.

• Ability to apply principles of logical or scientific thinking to a wide range of intellectual and practical problems. Ability to deal with nonverbal symbolism (formulas, scientific equations, graphs, musical notes, etc.,) in its most difficult phases. Ability to deal with a variety of abstract and concrete variables.

• Strong experience in natural product chemistry, process chemistry and separation science.

• Must possess a demonstrated record of achievement and innovation.

• Experience in flavor, protein, tannin/wine chemistry is highly desirable.

• Ability to work independently, lead technical projects, interfaces with other technical teams.

• Ability to manage multiple assignments.

 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, sit and taste or smell. The employee is occasionally required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include color vision.

 

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• While performing the duties of this job, the employees are occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts, high, precarious places, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals and outside weather conditions.

• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

 

For a complete job description and to apply on-line please visit: http://jobs.gallo.com/careers/CareersHome.asp

 

Equal Employment Opportunity EEO/AA M/F/V/D