Position Type
Seasonal / Temporary (Harvest Position)
Approximate employment period: August–November, depending on harvest timing and production needs
Reports To
Cellar Lead, Assistant Winemaker, and Director of Winemaking
Position Summary
Pacific Wine Services is seeking a motivated and hardworking Harvest Intern to join our team for the upcoming harvest season. This is a hands-on opportunity to work in a fast-paced custom crush environment alongside a diverse range of winemaking clients and wine styles.
The ideal candidate is eager to learn, thrives in a collaborative team environment, communicates well, takes direction professionally, and understands the importance of working together during the fast pace of harvest. Candidates must have at least one prior harvest experience in a winery or custom crush facility. This role is physically demanding and requires flexibility, attention to detail, accountability, and a consistently positive attitude during long harvest hours.
At Pacific Wine Services, we pride ourselves on cleanliness, organization, efficiency, and top-tier customer service while helping our clients craft wines that reflect their individual vision.
Minimum Qualifications
Minimum of one completed wine harvest required
Basic understanding of cellar operations and winery safety procedures
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
Strong work ethic and willingness to learn
Must work well within a team environment and collaborate effectively with coworkers and supervisors
Ability to take direction well, adapt quickly, and maintain professionalism under pressure
Positive attitude and willingness to assist wherever needed during harvest
Must have reliable transportation to and from work
Forklift experience is a plus, but not required
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Assist with grape receiving, sorting, crushing, and pressing
Perform pumpovers, punchdowns, rackings, and tank/barrel transfers
Sanitize and maintain winery equipment, tanks, hoses, and work areas
Assist with fermentation monitoring and additions under supervision
Barrel work including topping, filling, and cleaning
Support bottling preparation and cellar organization
Follow all winery safety and sanitation protocols
Maintain accurate work records and communicate effectively with supervisors and team members
Assist fellow cellar staff as needed to maintain efficient harvest workflow
Assist with general harvest and cellar tasks as needed
Physical Requirements
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly
Ability to stand, bend, climb stairs, and work long hours on feet
Comfortable working in wet environments, around machinery, and in varying temperatures
Ability to work extended hours, weekends, and overtime during peak harvest season
Schedule Expectations
Harvest is a demanding and exciting time of year. Candidates should expect:
Seasonal employment approximately August through November
Typical work week during harvest is 6 days per week
Scheduling is based on fruit intake and fermentation activity
We strive to keep schedules around 50 hours per week whenever possible, though additional overtime may occasionally be required during peak harvest periods
Weekend work and occasional evening/night shifts should be expected
Compensation & Perks
$17–$20/hour depending on experience
Overtime opportunities during harvest
Hands-on experience in a dynamic custom crush environment
Opportunity to work with multiple brands, varietals, and winemaking styles
Potential housing options may be available for qualified candidates
About Pacific Wine Services
Pacific Wine Services is a full-service custom crush winery in Paso Robles dedicated to helping clients bring their winemaking vision to life. From grape to bottle, our team supports a wide range of wineries and winemakers through premium custom crush services, cellar operations, lab support, barrel storage, and bottling services.
