Join the Team at Mark Ryan Winery — Kickstart Your Career in Wine Production

Location: Walla Walla, Washington
Position: Cellar Worker 1
Salary: $38,000-42,000 per year
Job Type: Full-time

Are you eager to start a hands-on career in winemaking? Mark Ryan Winery is looking for a motivated, hardworking cellar worker to join our production team. This is your opportunity to become part of one of Washington’s most exciting wineries, learn the craft of winemaking from grape to bottle, and grow your skills in a supportive, team-oriented environment.

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Why Mark Ryan Winery?

Founded in 1999 Mark Ryan Winery is located in the heart of Walla Walla wine country and partners with some of Washington State’s most exceptional vineyards. Our team is passionate about making premium wines with integrity, intensity, and personality. If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and work with people who care deeply about their craft, we want to hear from you.
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What You'll Do – and Learn

This is more than a job — it’s a full-immersion experience in modern wine production. You'll work closely with our experienced winemaking team and contribute to every phase of the process.

Your Key Responsibilities:

•  Participate in every stage of winemaking: grape receival, crushing, fermentation, pressing, barreling, racking, blending, bottling, and more.
•  Maintain and sanitize tanks, barrels, hoses, and other cellar equipment to exacting standards.
•  Assist in servicing and operating cellar equipment (presses, pumps, chillers, forklifts, etc.).
•  Help mentor and guide harvest interns during the busy crush season.
•  Keep our cellar clean, safe, and well-organized.
•  Occasionally assist with winery events and tastings (some evenings/weekends).
•  Commit to extended hours and hard but rewarding work during harvest (August–November).
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Who We’re Looking For

We’re looking for curiosity, commitment, and a can-do attitude. You don’t need to be an expert — just willing to learn, work hard, and grow with us.

You Are:

•  Enthusiastic about wine and excited to learn the craft from the ground up.
•  Reliable, driven, and detail oriented.
•  A great team player who also thrives when working independently.
•  Comfortable with physically demanding tasks in an active, hands-on environment.

You Have:

•  1+ year of winery production experience (including at least one full harvest).
•  A degree in enology, viticulture, or related field (preferred, not required).
•  A valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
•  The ability to lift 50 lbs. and work in varied weather conditions.
•  Forklift certification (or willingness to earn it).
•  Strong English communication skills (verbal and written).
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Perks & Benefits

•  100% employer-paid medical and dental coverage for employees (50% coverage for dependents)
•  Access to a 401(k)-retirement program
•  Paid vacation and sick leave
•  Overtime pay at time-and-a-half
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A Culture That Cares

At Mark Ryan Winery, we’re committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive environment for every employee. We’re proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, and we value the unique perspectives that each team member brings.