Cellar Worker

The Cellar Worker position is responsible for the daily activities needed during the production of fine wine, taking direction from the Winemaker, Cellar Master and Cellar Lead. Through the course of the year, these activities may include crushing, fermentation and aging, barrel filling and maintenance, bottling, vineyard operations, and various other tasks as needed.

Requirements: 

Previous experience in a winery environment is desired. Ability to read, write and communicate in English is required. Must be able to understand, follow and communicate verbal and written safety and work instructions. Must follow procedures and show commitment to high standards. 

Basic PC and math skills required. The individual selected for this position must be reliable, possess a good work ethic, have desire to develop new skills, and work well with others in a team environment. Valid  Driver’s License – is required. Must be flexible and willing to work within changing priorities. Must be able to work any shift and overtime as needed, especially during harvest. Must be able to lift and carry 50 lbs and to work and stand for long hours. 

DUTIES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING: 

•  Perform general activities during the grape harvest, which may include some or all of the following: functioning as weighmaster at the grape scale; operating all stations at the crush pad from emptying bins and gondolas to monitoring the crusher/destemmer; operating presses; operating pumps; monitoring the sorting table; moving dumpsters and other equipment; and other tasks as needed. 

•  Perform general activities during the fermentation and aging process, which may include some or all of the following: moving juice/must from the crushers and/or presses to fermentation tanks; monitoring tanks for temperature control and fermentation progress; racking and performing pump-overs; moving must from the tanks to the presses; filtering, fining, and stabilizing; and other tasks as specified. 

•  Perform general activities associated with the barrel aging program: washing, sulfuring, filling, topping, keeping inventory, moving and emptying barrels, adding new barrels, and discarding older barrels. 

•  Performing general activities related to the bottling process: cleaning the bottling line, cleaning the holding tanks, preparing wine for bottling, moving wine into the tanks, and providing support for the bottling crew as needed. 

•  Perform general tasks related to cellar maintenance and cleaning; monitoring cellar supplies and equipment; participating in safety presentations and training; and assisting winemakers in other tasks as needed. 

•  Perform general tasks related to the vineyard management, including trellising repairs, vines planting and canopy management. 

•  Perform general warehouse duties including preparation of shipping orders, moving pallets, loading trucks.  

Additional Functions: 

•  Comply with all company safety policies, practices, and procedures. Participate in safety training and report all unsafe conditions or work practices. 

•  Participate in team efforts and perform additional duties as needed. 

Necessary Skills: 

Language: Ability to speak and understand basic English required for all positions. 

•  Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos. Ability to write simple correspondence. Ability to effectively participate in one-on-one and small groups situations. 

Math: 

•  Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide accurately, using standard American units of currency, weight, volume, and/or distance. Ability to recognize and correct inaccuracies when using calculator or computer spreadsheet. 

Logic: 

•  Ability to apply common sense understanding to a variety of tasks and duties. Ability to adapt to minor changes in routine, solve basic problems, and work with moderate supervision. 

Computer: 

•  Computer skills not required on a daily basis, but basic knowledge recommended. 

Experience: 

•  Current, valid Driver’s License, insurable driving record, and proof of current automobile insurance may be required. 

•  The candidate must prove to be confident in driving forklift and farming equipment 

Physical Requirements: 

•  Heavy physical activity performing regular strenuous activities, including standing, walking, climbing, reaching, carrying, pushing, pulling, squatting, and other motions. Stability and balance adequate for elevated and/or narrow work areas. Requires lifting and moving objects up to 50 lbs. in weight independently, and up to 100 lbs. or more with assistance. Manual dexterity sufficient to reach, grasp, hold, handle items, and work with the fingers, wrists, elbows, and shoulders. Clear vision (close and distant), peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Hearing adequate for working safely around machinery, vehicles, and other equipment. 

Work Environment: 

•  Indoor and outdoor environment with variable lighting, temperature and/or ventilation. Areas may or may not be heated, air-conditioned, or shaded. Outdoor periods frequently required in changing weather conditions. Exposure to fumes and/or a variety of chemicals. Moderate to high noise levels typical of machinery, power tools, vehicles, and other equipment. (Note: PPE provided for all workers.) 

Schedule and Travel Requirements: 

•  Variable schedule: Primarily a set schedule but may require weekends, periodic evenings, and/or periodic or seasonal overtime. 

•  Position does not require overnight travel.

Competitive compensation package and full benefits offered. 

Benefits: medical starts 30 days following your hire date, dental, vision, FSA/HSA, Life/Disability/AD&D, 401k, vacation, sick, holiday, education bonus. 

If interested contact the winemaker at