As a Harvest Cellar Worker at Tensley Wines, you'll work alongside our winemaking team throughout the 2026 harvest, assisting in every aspect of production—from fruit receiving to fermentation management and barrel work. This is a hands-on position that offers an incredible opportunity to learn the winemaking process while contributing to the production of some of Santa Barbara County's most acclaimed wines.

No two days during harvest are the same. Long hours, hard work, and attention to detail are balanced by the rewarding experience of creating wines from some of the region's most exceptional vineyards.

Responsibilities:
Working under the direction of the Winemaker and Assistant Winemaker, harvest cellar staff will assist with all aspects of winery operations, including:
Receiving and sorting fruit
Operating crush equipment and presses
Cleaning and sanitizing winery equipment
Punchdowns
Fermentation monitoring and tank management
Juice and wine transfers
Barrel filling, topping, and maintenance
Forklift operation (training or certification preferred but not required)
General winery cleaning and organization
Assisting with bottling or other production projects as needed
Maintaining a clean, safe, and organized work environment

Qualifications:
We are looking for individuals who are:
Hardworking and dependable
Positive, humble, and team-oriented
Detail-oriented with a strong work ethic
Eager to learn about premium winemaking
Able to follow instructions and work safely
Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment
Flexible with changing priorities throughout harvest
Previous winery experience is helpful but not required. We are happy to train individuals with a strong work ethic and a passion for wine.

Physical Requirements:
Harvest is physically demanding. Applicants must be able to:
Lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly
Stand, bend, kneel, climb ladders, and work on uneven surfaces
Work around wet floors, cleaning chemicals, and winery equipment
Work both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions
Perform repetitive physical tasks throughout the day

Schedule:
Harvest typically runs from August through November, depending on the growing season.
Applicants should expect:
Full-time seasonal employment
Extended shifts during peak harvest
Early mornings, evenings, weekends, and overtime as needed
Flexible scheduling based on fruit arrivals and winery production
Harvest schedules are dictated by the vineyard, not the clock. Flexibility is essential.

Why Tensley Wines?
Tensley Wines has been producing acclaimed Santa Barbara County wines for more than 25 years, with a reputation built on exceptional vineyards, meticulous farming relationships, and an uncompromising commitment to quality.

Harvest interns become an integral part of our small team, working directly alongside experienced winemakers rather than being one person among hundreds. You'll gain hands-on experience with premium Syrah, Grenache, and Rhône varietals from some of California's most respected vineyard sites.
If you're looking for an immersive harvest experience where you'll learn, work hard, and be part of crafting world-class wines, we'd love to hear from you.