Cellar Hand

Company:

Walsh Family Wine Location:

Purcellville, VA Position Type:

Full-Time, Hourly (Commensurate with experience)

Reports To:

Head Winemaker Position Overview Walsh Family Wine is seeking a hardworking, detail-oriented, and driven Cellar Hand to join our production team in Purcellville, Virginia. We are dedicated to exploring site-specific viticulture and producing premium, estate-grown wines (focusing on varieties like Cabernet Franc, Petit Manseng, and Tannat), alongside running a robust custom crush and contract winemaking program for local growers. This is an entry-to-mid-level, highly immersive role designed for an individual who wants to master the foundational mechanics of premium winemaking from the ground up. For the right candidate, this position is structured with a clear trajectory: successful candidates who demonstrate technical proficiency, leadership capabilities, and strong execution of cellar and lab operations will become eligible for a promotion to Assistant Winemaker. Key Responsibilities Cellar Operations & Sanitation Execute day-to-day cellar tasks including racking, pumping, additions, barrel filling, topping, stirring, and filtration. Maintain an immaculate standard of sanitation and organization throughout the crush pad, cellar, and barrel rooms. Safely operate and maintain winemaking equipment (pumps, press, destemmer, forklift, and filtration units). Assist in organizing and preparing the cellar for bottling runs and bulk wine movements. Laboratory & Production Support (Growth Areas) Assist with routine quality control analysis in our full-service laboratory. Collect and track wine and juice samples Harvest & Vineyard Support Assist with pre-harvest vineyard scouting, fruit sampling, and crop monitoring. Actively participate in all harvest operations, including fruit receiving, sorting, inoculations, nutrient additions, and cap management (pump-overs and punch-downs). Maintain the flexibility to work extended hours, early mornings, and weekends during the peak harvest season.

Qualifications & Requirements Experience:

1-2 harvests or prior winery cellar experience is preferred, though a strong background in craft beverage production, farming, or food manufacturing will be considered.

Physical Stamina:

Ability to perform physically demanding labor in varying temperatures (indoor/outdoor), lift and carry up to 50 lbs repetitively, stand for long periods, and work safely around machinery and at heights.

Core Competencies:

Extreme attention to detail, a team-first attitude, excellent communication skills, and a strong sense of urgency during peak production windows.

License:

A valid driver's license and reliable transportation are required. Forklift experience is a major plus (training will be provided).

Pay:

$17.00 - $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

Employee discount On-the-job training Professional development assistance Application Question(s): Do you have forklift experience? Are you comfortable working on your feet for long periods?

Work Location:

In person