What are the responsibilities and job description for the Winemaking Assistant position at O'Neill Beverages Co., LLC?
Description
O’Neill Vintners & Distillers was founded in 2004 with a simple idea from our founder, Jeff O’Neill, that great wines should be enjoyed by all. We believe those wines must be of exceptional quality centered around our core belief that doing the right thing for our employees, consumers, partners, and the planet is key to a sustainable future. As our family-owned business has grown, so has our belief in business as a force for good—we are proud to be an industry leader in sustainability and a Certified B Corporation.
We are one of California's largest wineries, with operations in Larkspur, Sonoma, Paso Robles, and Parlier/Reedley, CA. Our award-winning portfolio of consumer brands includes Line 39, FitVine, Harken Chardonnay, Rabble, Charles Woodson’s Intercept, Robert Hall, Allegro Cellars, Ram’s Gate, Wines of Substance, ViNO, and BrandyLab.
SUMMARY: The Winemaking Assistant supports the Winemaking team by performing a variety of tasks essential to the production of high-quality wines. This role involves sample organization and shipment, tasting preparation, data entry, work order generation, laboratory analysis review, and other winemaking support activities. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, organized, and capable of working independently while maintaining effective communication with colleagues across departments.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
The following reflects management’s definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.
- Organize, prepare, and ship wine samples to internal and external recipients.
- Assist with the preparation and execution of tastings.
- Perform efficient and accurate data entry related to winemaking activities.
- Generate work orders, particularly for additions and other winemaking processes.
- Review laboratory analyses to ensure wine quality standards are met.
- Conduct benchtop blending trials and assist with laboratory analysis as needed.
- Provide administrative support, including inventory tracking and document management.
- Participate in miscellaneous projects supporting the Winemaking and Laboratory teams.
- Maintain consistent and effective communication with team members and other departments.
- Adhere to all winery and laboratory safety and quality procedures.
Requirements
QUALIFICATIONS:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform each essential duty. The requirements listed below represent the knowledge, skill, and ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
- Bachelor’s degree or upper-division coursework in Enology, a related Science, or Engineering.
- Demonstrated interest in winemaking, fermentation science, or food processing.
- Previous experience in the beverage or food processing industry preferred.
- Strong ability to work independently while maintaining clear communication with the team.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
- Ability to work up to six days a week on variable or rotating shifts.
Cultural Behaviors:
O’Neill team members are Forward Thinkers. Hard Working without Drama. Friendly Problem Solvers who work as One Team to Always Deliver.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to do the following:
- Sit or stand for extended periods
- Climb stairs
- Lift to 50 pounds
- Perform some repetitive motion activities
- Coordinate multiple tasks simultaneously
WORK ENVIRONMENT: Work may occur in production offices, the laboratory, the cellar, and outdoors. Temperatures may fluctuate from cool to hot, depending on the weather and facility temperatures. Floors may be slippery – proper footwear is provided and required.
O’Neill Vintners & Distillers offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage, short- and long-term disability, a 401(k) with a company match, Paid Time Off, holidays, and more.
O’Neill Vintners & Distillers is an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of employment, including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.
All candidates must pass a comprehensive background check and drug screen and adhere to all Company, Federal, and State Food Safety Regulations and Policies. This organization participates in E-Verify.
Salary : $25 - $28
