Harvest Intern
(Wine Jobs:
Vineyards & Cellars )
Full Time
West Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada,
West Coast
Harvest Intern / Cellar Hand
Job Type: Seasonal (July – December 2026)
Mission Hill Family Estate Winery
West Kelowna, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
Tucked among the rolling hills and sun‑kissed slopes of the Okanagan Valley, our family‑owned winery is driven by a single purpose: to craft wines that express the distinct terroir of our vineyards. Every vintage is an opportunity to showcase the soils, microclimates, and meticulous farming that set our estate apart. We’re committed to sustainable, quality‑focused winemaking and take pride in producing wines that can stand alongside the best in the world. If you’re passionate about the art and science of winemaking and want to be part of a close‑knit team dedicated to excellence, this is your chance.
What You'll Do:
- Operate equipment in the cellar for grape processing, fermentation and barreling, with a focus on safety and efficiency.
- Receive, sort and process fruit, ensuring gentle handling to preserve quality and varietal character.
- Assist in pressing grapes and monitoring juice transfers to tanks, ensuring accurate separation of free‑run and press fractions.
- Participate in cellar tasks such as pump‑overs, punch‑downs, inoculations, ferment tracking, temperature monitoring and sanitizing equipment.
- Maintain clean, organized work areas; sanitize tanks, hoses, pumps and barrels to prevent contamination and ensure wine quality.
- Handle barrel work: cleaning, filling, hydrating, racking, stirring, topping and monitoring maturation.
- Operate grape sorting equipment and perform general maintenance to ensure optimal performance.
- Assist Lab Technician with monitoring ferments and basic winery lab work.
- Participate in packaging duties once wines are ready, including bottling line support and final quality checks.
- Perform additional production tasks as required to support the winemaking team.
Skills & Experiences Needed:
- Enthusiasm for winemaking and willingness to work across all areas of the cellar, lab, and bottling.
- Post-secondary education in winemaking or a related discipline, and previous harvest experience are assets
- Physically fit and able to lift up to 50 lbs, navigate stairs, and stand for extended periods.
- Comfortable working at heights and in confined spaces; able to work in varied temperature conditions.
- Strong commitment to safety, attention to detail, and pride in maintaining a clean, orderly cellar.
- Ability to multitask, work independently and as part of a team in a fast‑paced environment.
- Availability to work variable shifts, including weekends, evenings and overnight during harvest.
- Forklift Operator’s Certificate is an asset, but training is provided.
Why Join Us?
The typical hiring range for this position is $21-$25 per hour and is determined by job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and education
- Candidates who successfully pass their probationary period will be immediately considered for permanent opportunities with the Company with full benefits, pension, and more
- Comprehensive paid training and access to extensive wine education
- Discounts at the Terrace Restaurant, Events, and at our Boutique on gifts and wine
- Free tastings for you and your guests
- Discounts on tours and Wine Experiences
