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West of Wise Winery
Assistant Winemaker
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Based on Illinois data
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What they do
A Food Production Worker operates machinery used to prepare and cook food, and produces packaged food to sale to retail or wholesale customers.
$37,895 / year median in Illinois
+7% projected growth
Job Description
Assistant Winemaker West of Wise Winery - Central Illinois West of Wise Winery is a family-owned, award-winning, small-batch winery located in Central Illinois, producing approximately 2,000 cases of wine and 600 cases of cider annually. We specialize in wines made exclusively from Illinois-grown grapes, many sourced from our family vineyard, along with a growing cider program. We are seeking a Assistant Winemaker to oversee all aspects of wine and cider production in a collaborative, hands-on production environment. Position Summary The Lead Winemaker is responsible for managing the full production cycle—from fruit intake through bottling—while maintaining high standards of quality, organization, and innovation. This role works closely with ownership and plays a key part in shaping the future of our wine and cider portfolio. Key Responsibilities
- Receive and process fruit and juice, including crushing, destemming, and pressing
- Initiate, monitor, and manage fermentations for wine and cider
- Perform routine lab analysis and make necessary adjustments to musts and finished products
- Conduct transfers, racking, and filtration
- Maintain strict sanitation protocols across all production and cellar areas
- Oversee and participate in bottling operations
- Maintain accurate and detailed production records
- Monitor inventory levels and communicate production needs to maintain adequate supply
- Ensure consistent quality control throughout all stages of production
- Collaborate with ownership on product development and innovation
- Assist with winery events, tastings, and occasional tours Qualifications
- Previous winemaking or cellar experience preferred (lead or assistant level)
- Strong understanding of fermentation, lab analysis, and cellar operations
- Ability to lift 50+ lbs and work in a physically active environment
- Highly organized with strong attention to detail
- Self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple projects
- Passion for wine, cider, and continuous improvement Compensation Contact Salary based on experience.