If you’ve ever wondered how a bottle of wine journeys from the vineyard to the tasting room, the answer lies in the hands of a dedicated workforce. Behind every label are teams working in roles ranging from scientific to hands-on. And for job seekers looking for an exciting and fast-growing field, the wine industry offers more than seasonal work; it provides a path to long-term opportunity.
Stellar Staffing connects candidates with wineries across the region, placing workers in essential roles that keep the production process flowing. Whether you’re just starting out, or looking to transfer your skills into something new, here’s a look at the different paths available and how to step into them.
Production Line Workers: The Heart of Operations
If you’re dependable, detail-oriented, and can work in a fast-paced environment, production line work is a great place to start. These roles involve bottling, labeling, and packing wine for distribution. It’s physical work and offers a clear path to advancement. Candidates arriving on time, following safety protocols, and learning quickly often move into lead or supervisory positions.
Cellar Workers: Where Science Meets Craft
Cellar work is one of the most dynamic areas in a winery. Cellar hands assist with fermentation, racking, filtration, and barrel management. It’s ideal for people who enjoy active, hands-on work and want to learn how wine is made. Many workers in this area go on to become cellar masters or assistant winemakers after gaining experience.
Skills from other industries such as food processing, brewing, or even warehouse operations transfer well here. A basic understanding of sanitation, machinery, or chemical handling can give you a strong start.
Forklift Operators: Keeping the Workflow Moving
Every part of the winery operation depends on precise movement of materials. Forklift operators transport pallets of grapes, barrels, bottled wine, and supplies. If you’re certified and experienced, these roles are in high demand during peak seasons. And because they touch almost every department, forklift operators often develop a wide view of winery operations, opening up options for cross-training.
Tasting Room Staff: Representing the Brand
If you enjoy interacting with people and want a front-facing role, tasting room work can be fun and rewarding. Associates pour wine, explain the production process, and create memorable guest experiences. Strong communication skills and a genuine interest in wine are the keys to success. Many people use this role as a stepping stone into marketing, events, or brand ambassador positions.
Winery Lab Technicians: Behind the Scenes Quality Control
Lab techs monitor wine quality during fermentation and aging. This role suits candidates with backgrounds in biology, chemistry, or food science. Precision and consistency matter, and attention to detail is critical. It’s one of the most technical paths in the winery, and it offers opportunities for advancement into quality assurance and winemaking.
Find Your Path with Stellar Staffing
The wine industry needs passionate, reliable people across a variety of roles. Whether you’re seeking seasonal work or a long-term career, Stellar Staffing can help you get started. Reach out today to explore open positions and find your fit in the vineyard-to-glass journey.
