Vineyard Worker / Cellard Hand

We are seeking a Vineyard & Cellar Assistant to support all aspects of vineyard operations and seasonal cellar work. This is a hands-on, physical role that changes with the seasons, from vineyard work throughout the year to cellar support during production.

The ideal candidate is adaptable, hardworking, and comfortable moving between outdoor agricultural work and production tasks in a very small, collaborative team.

About Us

Sea Star Vineyards & Winery is an independently owned winery on Pender Island, managing 12 acres of vineyard across two sites.

We are a very small team, and everyone contributes across many different areas of the operation. Working here requires flexibility, initiative, and a positive attitude, as well as an appreciation for the unique challenges of island life.

Our approach is grounded in continuous learning, combining practical experience with evolving knowledge in viticulture and winemaking.

What We’re Looking For

Someone who wants to be part of the long-term growth of the vineyard and winery. This role suits a person who enjoys physical work, thrives in a dynamic environment, and takes pride in contributing to both the vineyard and the wines we produce.

Key Responsibilities

Vineyard Operations

• Perform winter pruning, vine tying, and training
• Conduct canopy management (bud rubbing, shoot thinning, positioning, leaf removal)
• Assist with planting, replanting, and young vine establishment
• Install and maintain trellis systems and vineyard infrastructure
• Support irrigation setup, monitoring, and maintenance
• Perform mowing, weed control, and general vineyard floor management
• Assist with spray programs (fungicide, biologicals, foliar nutrients)
• Install and remove bird netting and assist with crop protection

Harvest Operations

• Hand-harvest grapes 
• Assist with bin management and fruit transport
• Coordinate and support seasonal harvest workers
• Support vineyard logistics during harvest

Equipment & Safety

• Operate vineyard equipment (tractors, mowers, sprayers, etc.)
• Maintain tools and equipment; keep clean and report mechanical issues
• Follow all safety protocols and procedures

Cellar Operations (may include):

• Assist with fruit processing (sorting, destemming, crushing, pressing)
• Perform pump-overs, punch-downs, and other fermentation tasks
• Monitor fermentations (temperature, Brix) and maintain records
• Conduct racking, topping, and general wine movements
• Assist with fining, blending, stabilization, and filtration
• Support bottling line setup, operation, and breakdown
• Clean and sanitize all equipment and workspaces
• Handle cellar chemicals safely (SO₂, acids, cleaning agents)