Harvest Assistant

Volta Estate Winery
OntarioVineyards & CellarsPosted about 1 year ago

Location

Prince Edward County, Ontario

Job Type

Part Time

Job Overview

About Volta Estate

Volta Estate Winery is a premium boutique winery rooted in the limestone-rich terroir of Prince Edward County. Inspired by generations of Italian winemaking heritage and driven by a bold vision for sustainable, terroir-expressive wines, we are building an immersive winery experience that blends tradition, innovation, and architectural excellence. Our team is passionate, collaborative, and dedicated to crafting world-class Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sparkling Wines using both modern and traditional techniques.

Position Overview

As a Harvest Assistant, you will play a crucial role during our busiest and most rewarding time of year: the grape harvest and initial winemaking season. You’ll be part of a hands-on, passionate team involved in cellar activities, from grape processing, sorting, pressing, sanitation, and barrel work. This is an ideal opportunity for someone eager to deepen their winemaking knowledge, gain experience in premium cool-climate wine production, and contribute to the dynamic launch year of Volta Estate.

Key Responsibilities

Harvest Duties

  • Grape receival with keen note taking and tracking

  • Participate in manual grape sorting with attention to grape quality and ripeness

  • Follow proper handling practices to minimize grape damage and contamination

  • Set-up, tear-down, and cleaning of grape processing equipment

Cellar Operations

  • Support crush and press activities using state-of-the-art equipment

  • Assist with pump-overs, punch-downs, racking, and juice/wine transfers

  • Sanitize tanks, hoses, bins, barrels, and fermentation vessels

  • Monitor and maintain cellar cleanliness and hygiene at all times

  • Maintain detailed notetaking of all cellar activities

Qualifications & Experience

  • Prior vineyard or winery experience is strongly preferred but not required

  • Physically fit and able to lift 25+ kg, work long hours, and perform repetitive tasks

  • Can be on your feet for extended periods

  • Strong attention to detail and cleanliness

  • Ability to follow safety procedures and instructions precisely

  • Team-oriented, positive attitude, and eager to learn

  • Forklift or tractor experience is a bonus

  • Must be legally eligible to work in Canada

Schedule

  • Start Date: Beginning of September

  • Duration: Approximately 8–10 weeks, with possibility of extension

  • Shifts: 2-3 days/week on average including weekends, variable hours based on harvest progression

What We Offer

  • Training in sustainable cool-climate viticulture and cellar operations

  • Exposure to traditional and innovative winemaking techniques

  • Staff tastings and winery experience perks

  • A supportive and inclusive environment with opportunities to return in future vintages

  • Participation in shaping the early foundation of an emerging winery

 

Please send your resume and a brief cover note outlining your interest and any relevant experience to chris@voltaestate.com. Early applications are encouraged, as positions will be filled on a rolling basis.

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