Cellar Hand
About The Position
Pelee Island Winery & Vineyards Inc. is seeking a hardworking, dependable, and detail-oriented Seasonal Cellar Hand to support our winemaking team during the harvest season. This hands-on position is involved in several stages of wine production, including receiving and processing grapes, fermentation support, wine transfers, barrel work, equipment operation, sanitation, and record-keeping. The successful candidate will have a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and the ability to work safely and efficiently in a fast-paced environment. Previous winery or harvest experience is an asset; however, candidates who are motivated and willing to learn are encouraged to apply.
Requirements
- Valid driver’s licence is required.
- Ability to multitask and work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
- Strong communication, organizational, and record-keeping skills.
- Positive attitude and strong attention to detail.
- Willingness to work extended hours, weekends, and additional days during harvest.
- Commitment to following safe work practices and required PPE guidelines.
Nice To Haves
- Previous winery, cellar, or harvest experience is an asset.
- Enrolment in or completion of a winemaking, viticulture, or related program is an asset.
- Tractor-driving experience is an asset.
- Forklift certification is preferred.
Responsibilities
- Prepare the winery, cellar, equipment, and production areas for harvest.
- Receive, sort, crush, de-stem, and press grapes.
- Assist with processing fruit and monitoring juice and wine fermentations.
- Prepare and manage additions to juice and wine as directed by the Winemaker.
- Operate pumps, hoses, presses, de-stemmers, filters, and other winery equipment.
- Transfer, rack, inoculate, blend, and sample wine and juice.
- Perform punch-downs, pump-overs, and dig-outs during red-wine fermentation.
- Assist with filling, fermenting, racking, sampling, topping, and emptying barrels.
- Clean and sanitize tanks, hoses, pumps, tools, equipment, floors, and work areas.
- Collect samples, monitor fermentations, and maintain accurate production records.
- Follow standard operating procedures, food-safety requirements, and quality standards.
- Wear required personal protective equipment and follow all health and safety procedures.
- Immediately report hazards, unsafe conditions, incidents, or equipment concerns.
- Complete other duties assigned by the Winemaker or Manager.
Benefits
- Gain hands-on experience in wine production
- Learn from an experienced winemaking team
- Contribute directly to the production of quality Ontario wines
- Inclusive and accessible recruitment process
- Accommodation is available upon request for candidates participating in all stages of the selection process.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
