Cellar Worker

SUMMARY

Under the direct supervision of the winemaker, the cellar worker is part of a team supporting wine cellar operations in a manner that ensures wine quality and worker safety. Winery workers are involved in production, bottling, warehousing, packaging, and distribution of product. They must be willing to learn various aspects of the operations area and assist the winemaker in achieving production goals consistent with the increased demand for product. 

Cellar Worker reports directly to the Winemaker.

RESPONSIBILTIES

Cellar Operations

• Operate equipment to crush, press, and ferment the grapes; lift bulk grape containers to crusher.
• Operate press that separates juice from pomace, and disposal of pomace.
• Assist in fermentation and add prescribed adjuncts when applicable.
• Blend and transfer wine using various style pumps.
• Assist with barrel and tank work, including racking, pumping, clarifying, and filtering of juice and wine.
• Assist in laboratory work, basic knowledge of general analysis techniques; pH, TA, Alcohol, Brix and VA.
• Operate filtration equipment.
• Assist in bottling, packaging, and storage and organization of case goods.
• General cleaning and sterilization of fermenting tanks, pumps, hoses and fittings using appropriate cleaning and sanitizing materials, including use of steam generator, to maintain a clean, sanitary, and organized work environment.
• Rotate inventory in warehouse.
• Proper and safe usage of forklift equipment and pallet jacks.
• Assist with shipping and receiving of bulk juice/wine from tanker trucks.
• Usage of tractor equipment for maneuvering grape bins, wine totes and other material handling.
• Both full and part-time winery workers must successfully complete operations and safety training for many of the pieces of machinery in the winemaking area.
• Maintain case good inventory in tasting rooms at all locations.
• Assist in vineyard as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Vineyard

• Prepare soil, plant vines, cultivate, and fertilize crops.
• Construct and maintain wire trellises to support vines and fruit.
• Control weeds, diseases, and pests.
• Assist with harvesting and pruning.
• Assist in vine maintenance.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Must be able to work around alcohol in a responsible manner.
• Must possess a positive attitude and desire to work hard and learn.
• Must be able to work quickly and reliably, in groups and alone, with or without supervision.
• Must be able to work safely and be safety conscious and follow all written & verbal Standard Operational Procedures (SOP’s) and adhere to safe cellar practices.
• When handling hazardous materials, must follow training guidelines by wearing proper personal protective equipment.
• Must be able to accurately follow instructions and directions and possess strong communication skills. 
• Must be able to arrive to work on time and maintain a satisfactory attendance record.
• Must be able to build a healthy rapport with coworkers, customers, and vendors.
• Represent the company and brand, professionally, graciously, and enthusiastically.
• Must have valid driver’s license and be able to safely drive winery vehicles and equipment.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be 21 years of age or older.
• High School or GED, with emphasis in basic Math and Chemistry skills.
• Must be available for occasional weekend or evening work.
• Must pass forklift and motorized pallet jack tests following training.

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.

The cellar presents a challenging environment: hot and cold temperatures, wet conditions, slippery surfaces, and often noisy surroundings. There are occasionally long hours, particularly during harvest. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is sometimes required to:

• Lift 50 pounds repetitively.
• Undertake heavy-duty manual work.
• Stand for up to 8 hours, walk, bend, lift, and reach with hands and arms.
• Ascend and descend stairs or ladders.
• Work at heights.
• Enter confined spaces safely.
• Sit, talk, hear, and use hands to touch or handle or feel.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision.

PAY STATUS

• Job Type: Full Time – Hourly
• Associates in this position typically work between 37.5 and 40 hours per week depending on the needs of the business.
• This position is not exempt from overtime.
• This is not a tips-eligible position.
• Pay range for this position is from $12 to $16 per hour.

Compensation commensurate with experience.

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