Cellar Worker

Cellar Worker – Production Team

VARA Winery & Distillery
Department: Production
Job Type: Full-Time | Non-Exempt
Reports To: Production Manager / Winemaker / Distiller

Position Summary

VARA Winery & Distillery is seeking a motivated Cellar Worker to support daily wine and spirits production operations. This role works closely with the Production Manager, Winemakers, and Cellar Master to assist with all phases of production, including harvest, fermentation, barrel aging, bottling, and general cellar operations.

This is a hands-on position ideal for someone who enjoys physical work, teamwork, and learning the craft of wine and spirits production in a fast-paced environment.

At VARA, our purpose is simple:
“To sell more wine and spirits profitably while creating unique and memorable experiences for our customers.”

Key Responsibilities

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Harvest & Crush Operations

• Assist with grape harvest activities and crush pad operations
• Operate crush equipment, presses, pumps, and related machinery
• Function as weighmaster at grape scale when assigned
• Move bins, gondolas, dumpsters, and production equipment

Fermentation & Aging

• Transfer juice and must to fermentation tanks
• Monitor fermentation progress and temperature control
• Perform racking, filtering, fining, and stabilization tasks
• Maintain sanitation standards throughout production processes

Barrel Program

• Wash, sulfur, hydrate, fill, top, move, and inventory barrels
• Assist with barrel maintenance and light coopering
• Add and retire barrels as directed

Bottling Operations

• Clean and prepare bottling lines and holding tanks
• Prepare wine for bottling runs
• Assist with bottling and packaging operations

General Cellar & Production Support

• Maintain cellar cleanliness and organization
• Monitor supplies and equipment
• Assist winemakers and distilling operations as needed
• Follow all safety procedures and participate in safety training
• Take on new responsibilities and production challenges as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Must be 21 years of age or older
• Minimum 1 year warehouse or production experience
• Forklift certification (or ability to obtain)
• Valid driver’s license, good driving record, reliable transportation, and insurance
• Ability to understand and communicate basic English
• Basic math skills and ability to follow written and verbal instructions
• Ability to work flexible hours, including extended shifts during harvest

Preferred Attributes

• Strong work ethic and team mindset
• Interest in learning wine and spirits production
• Accountability, honesty, and professionalism
• Commitment to safety and quality
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn
• Collaborative and supportive approach to teamwork

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

This is a physically demanding production role. Candidates must be able to:

• Stand and perform repetitive motions for extended periods
• Lift up to 50 lbs independently and 100+ lbs with assistance
• Walk, climb, bend, kneel, crouch, and reach regularly
• Work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Work in environments with moderate to high noise levels
• Use required PPE including gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, and respirators when necessary
• Work around production equipment, chemicals, heat, and cold conditions

Extended hours and irregular shifts may be required, especially during harvest and bottling periods.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all company safety policies and procedures
• Report unsafe conditions immediately
• Participate in required safety training
• Maintain proper attendance and break compliance

Why Work at VARA Winery & Distillery?

• Hands-on experience in wine and spirits production
• Opportunity to grow within a dynamic production environment
• Collaborative team culture
• Learn from experienced winemakers and distillers
• Be part of creating premium products and memorable guest experiences

Employment Statement

This position description is intended to describe the general nature of work performed and does not represent a contract of employment. Employment is at-will and responsibilities may change based on business needs.

Pay: $17.00 - $19.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• On-the-job training
• Paid sick time

Work Location: In person