2026 Harvest Internship - J. Bookwalter

Job Description:

J. Bookwalter Winery in Richland, WA is seeking cellar hands for harvest 2026.

J. Bookwalter is one of the most recognized boutique wineries in the Pacific Northwest, relying on meticulous winemaking, exceptional vineyards and a decades-long commitment to excellence to produce some of the world’s finest wines.

Our story is one of deep family roots in Washington State's exciting wine industry and a family heritage in viticulture and winemaking in the Columbia Basin
J. Bookwalter Winery was established by a family who has been in Washington agriculture for generations. After managing some of the highest quality vineyards in Washington state, Jerry Bookwalter decided to build J. Bookwalter Winery. Since 1983, Bookwalter winery has been crafting premium wines, with a focus on vineyard expression.
We strive to create a team that is curious to dive into winemaking, learn more and be a part of all winemaking processes. Experience working in a winery or pursuing a wine-related degree is desired but not required.

Job duties may include, but are not limited to:
•  Assist with bottling activities prior to commencement of harvest
•  Assist in day-to-day harvest activities
•  Vineyard and lab sampling and assistance
•  Proper handling and sanitation of cellar equipment
•  Wine movement from tank to barrel, barrel down, etc.
•  Pressing, crushing, and destemming fruit
•  Brix and temp measurement
•  Daily punchdowns and pumpovers
•  Inoculation and additions to juice and wine

Necessary Skills:
•  Ability to speak and understand complex directions in English.
•  Ability to read and comprehend detailed instructions, work orders, and memos.
•  Ability to fill-out/complete detailed work orders.
•  Ability to perform basic math calculations to complete written work orders.
•  Positive attitude and ability to work in a team with fellow winery employees
•  Ability to apply common sense understanding to a variety of tasks and duties.
•  Ability to adapt to minor changes in routine, solve basic problems, and work with minimal to moderate supervision.
Education, Experience, Certificates, Licenses:
•  Highschool diploma or GED required
•  Study of wine or winemaking preferred
•  Prior Winery Cellar experience preferred
•  Prior forklift training and experience preferred
•  Current valid US driver’s license, clean / insurable driving record

Physical Requirements:
•  Constant physical activity with occasional strenuous activities, including: standing, walking, climbing, reaching, carrying, pushing, pulling, squatting, and other motions.
•  Stability and balance adequate for ladders and elevated and/or narrow work areas.
•  Requires lifting and moving objects up to 50 lbs. independently, and up to 100 lbs. or more with assistance.
•  Manual dexterity sufficient to reach, grasp, hold, handle items, and work with the fingers, wrists, elbows, and shoulders.
•  Clear vision (close and distant), peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
•  Hearing adequate for working safely around machinery, vehicles, and other equipment.

Additional Required Qualifications
•  Must be authorized to work in the US
•  Must be able to work flexible shifts and weekends

Duration/Compensation:
The position will start in early June and will continue tentatively into late November. Hourly rate DOE. Employees receive discounts on wine purchases and food at our three affiliated restaurants.

To apply, please send cover letter and resume with references.

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