Location
Lillooet, British Columbia
Hourly Wage
$22+
Job Type
Contract
Job Overview
Join the Team at Fort Berens Estate Winery
Fort Berens Estate Winery is seeking a motivated and hardworking Harvest Hand to join our winemaking team for the 2026 vintage season with possible extension to full time work beyond. This seasonal position runs approximately from September through November, with full-time hours and extended shifts required during peak times. We also have shared staff accommodations on site, giving you a vineyard view and only steps from the cellar. Working directly with the Winemaker, you will assist with all aspects of grape processing and wine production, including fruit reception, crushing, pressing, fermentation monitoring, pump-overs, cleaning and sanitizing equipment. As part of a 2–3 person harvest team you will have the rare opportunity to be involved in every aspect of winemaking during this harvest and play a key role in producing the style and quality Fort Berens is known for!
This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a premium winery and be involved in the fast-paced, fun, quality driven winemaking from vine to wine. Fort Berens Estate Winery is located in the heart of Lillooet, one of Canada’s most unique winegrowing regions. As a small, passionate team, we take pride in producing high-quality wines sustainably as a certified sustainable vineyard and winery with SWBC.
About Us
Nestled on the benchlands along the Fraser River at the base of the Coast Mountains, Fort Berens is Lillooet’s first winery. Our 37 acres of vineyard with 8 traditional vinifera varieties are rooted in sandy soils under arid summer skies, producing premium grapes that are handcrafted into award-winning wines. We expect to process over 160 tons of grapes this harvest, between whites, rose, reds, late harvest wine and method traditional sparkling.
What You'll Do
- Work directly with the winemaking team to process premium estate-grown fruit
- Perform tasks such as destemming, pressing, pump-overs, punch-downs, and wine transfers
- Monitor fermentations, perform additions, and maintain accurate records
- Clean and sanitize tanks, equipment, and tools
- Support barrel work, forklift operation (if certified), and other harvest-related activities
- Participate in a fast-paced, collaborative environment with a strong focus on safety and quality
Requirements
- Must be legally entitled to work in Canada
- Hardworking and detail-oriented
- Forklift driving certificate is an asset
- Passionate about winemaking and eager to grow your skills
- Positive attitude and ability to work well in a team environment
- Physically capable of cellar work (bending, lifting up to 50 lbs, climbing ladders)
- Flexible to work long hours (12+ hr days), evenings, weekends, and holidays during peak periods
Compensation
Compensation and Benefits:
- +$22/hr (based on experience) with paid overtime
- Accommodations in shared staff housing
- Supportive team and opportunities for further education, training and development
- Possible ongoing employment
How to Apply
If you are enthusiastic about wine and eager to gain hands-on experience during harvest at a premium BC winery, we would love to hear from you! Please send your resume and a brief cover letter to seth@fortberens.ca
Thank you to all applicants. Only applicants shortlisted for an interview will be contacted.
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