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Cellar Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Gallo

Cellar Operator

Canandaigua, NY · On-site

$18.13 - $24.44/hr

... cellar production on second shift 3pm - 11:00pm and help keep our facilities running safely and ... Experience operating a forklift. To view the full , please click here. Our Benefits & Perks We are ...

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Cellar Operator information

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How much do cellar operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for cellar operator in the United States is $17.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cellar operator?

Cellar operators are professionals who work primarily in breweries, wineries, or distilleries, handling various aspects of the beverage production process after fermentation. Their duties typically include transferring liquids between tanks, cleaning and sanitizing equipment, monitoring fermentation, and ensuring quality control. They play a crucial role in maintaining product consistency and hygiene standards. Cellar operators work closely with brewers or winemakers to ensure that the final product meets all quality specifications.

What are the typical daily tasks and challenges faced by a cellar operator in a winery or brewery?

As a Cellar Operator, your daily responsibilities often include monitoring fermentation tanks, transferring liquids between vessels, cleaning and sanitizing equipment, and assisting with bottling or packaging. One common challenge is maintaining strict cleanliness standards to prevent contamination, which requires attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols. You’ll also need to work closely with other production team members and follow schedules to ensure smooth workflow. The role is physically demanding, involving lifting, standing, and working in variable temperatures, but offers valuable hands-on experience in beverage production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cellar operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cellar Operator, you need a solid understanding of fermentation processes, basic mechanical skills, and experience in beverage or brewing operations, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant vocational training. Familiarity with pumps, filtration systems, sanitation equipment, and inventory management software is typically required. Attention to detail, strong teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure safe, efficient production of high-quality beverages while maintaining strict quality and safety standards.

What is the difference between Cellar Operator vs Winemaker?

AspectCellar OperatorWinemaker
CredentialsBasic certifications or training in wine productionAdvanced degrees or extensive experience in viticulture and enology
Work EnvironmentCellar, winery production areaWinery, laboratory, vineyard
Industry UsageSupporting role in wine productionLeading role in wine creation and blending

The Cellar Operator primarily handles the day-to-day operations in the winery's cellar, focusing on fermentation, bottling, and equipment maintenance. The Winemaker oversees the entire wine production process, including grape selection, blending, and quality control. While both roles are essential in the wine industry, the Cellar Operator supports the winemaking process, often working under the supervision of the Winemaker.

What does a cellar operator do?

A cellar operator is responsible for managing the storage and aging of wine or other beverages in a cellar. They monitor temperature, humidity, and cleanliness, operate equipment such as pumps and forklifts, and ensure proper inventory control to maintain product quality.
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Cellar Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cellar Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,948 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Barrel Cellar Operator IV

Michelle Ste Wine Estates Ltd

Paterson, WA • On-site

$21.89 - $28.45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

A Barrel Cellar Operator IV job in Paterson, WA based out of our Columbia Crest Winery facility is available at Ste. Michelle Wine Estates (SMWE). In this role you will Operate all processing equipment used in the production of red wines and white wines. This role is primary supporting our day shift, but you must be able to work variable shifts and extended hours during peak season.

Ste. Michelle Wine Estates is the largest wine company in the Pacific Northwest, and among the largest premium wine companies in the U.S, with roots dating back to 1933. Throughout our 90+ year history, what has remained constant is our unwavering commitment to quality, service to our customers, and connection with our community. We are proud that our award-winning wines farmed in Washington are an expression of all the best things about the Pacific Northwest — the spirit of people, the abundance of the land, and the excellence-driven culture. Our distinctive portfolio of wines, including Chateau Ste. Michelle, 14 Hands, Columbia Crest, Intrinsic, Liquid Light, Northstar, and Spring Valley Vineyard, are enjoyed across the U.S. and distributed in over 100 countries.

Barrel Cellar Operator IV job responsibilities include:

  • Operation of destemmed/crusher, rotary fermenters, presses and forklift
  • Perform chemical additions, complete work orders
  • Assist in the direction of Grade II, III and temporary cellar workers as assigned by department winemakers and supervisors
  • Interact with other departments to ensure correct processing
  • Perform weekly safety check
  • Perform light mechanical duties
  • Perform other related duties as assigned

Position Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent required
  • Must be at least 21 years of age (Alcohol)
  • Ability to read, write, speak and understand English
  • 3-5 years experience in wine processing or related industry
  • Able to operate processing equipment with proven capabilities to qualify and operate other equipment as necessary
  • Ability to follow work orders and written instructions.
  • Possess moderate mechanical ability
  • Must be certified or able to certify in forklift operation
  • Able to interact with others effectively and capable of working independently with minimal supervision
  • Must be able to work in a fast paced environment
  • Must be able to work shift work and extended hours during harvest time
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Must be able to handle heavy physical labor. Ability to bend, squat, stand for long periods, and climb stairs, catwalks and ladders.
  • History of responsible use of alcohol and other appropriate conduct, as well as fitness to be licensed, permitted, and/or certified by state and/or local regulatory bodies.

Your Compensation: 

$21.89 - $28.45/hr. based upon relevant experience. 

At Ste. Michelle Wine Estates we believe in paying our employees equal pay for equal work. Individual offers are made dependent upon a candidate’s prior experience and education level as it pertains to the role.

Benefits of working with Ste. Michelle Wine Estates:

Our Total Rewards programs are designed to attract, motivate, and retain talented, curious people with a passion for innovation, collaboration, continuous improvement, and growth.  We offer leading programs that inspire and reward superior performance and foster an inclusive, diverse, and healthy workforce.

  • Health Care Coverage including medical, dental, vision & prescription – eligible on date of hire for full-time employees
  • Paid Vacation & Holidays
  • 401(k) with Employer Match
  • Employee Wine Discounts 

Culture at Ste. Michelle:

  • We Challenge: We are driven to succeed in everything we do, and we challenge ourselves and our team to perform at the highest level.
  • We Care: We put people first – our team, our consumers, our customers, our communities.
  • We Collaborate: We believe there is nothing we can’t accomplish – together – and we believe lifting up those around us is essential to achieving both individual and collective success.

Need assistance with the application process?  Click here to review step by step instructions available in  English or Spanish.

Ste. Michelle Wine Estates is an equal opportunity employer. We consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other protected class.  For more information, see the EEOC's "Equal Employment Opportunity is The Law" poster.  

Ste. Michelle Wine Estates participates in E-Verify. E-Verify is a United States Department of Homeland Security website that allows businesses to determine the eligibility of their employees to work in the United States. Please visit the following website for additional information: https://www.e-verify.gov/about-e-verify/what-is-e-verify 

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