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Cooperage Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Rickman Mill, a subsidiary of Independent Stave Company, a family-owned business, who has been committed to making quality cooperage products for four generations. We are looking to build a team of ...

Cooperage information

What is a cooperage?

A Cooperage job involves making, repairing, and maintaining wooden barrels, casks, and other similar containers. Coopers use woodworking tools to shape and assemble staves, fit metal hoops, and ensure the barrels are watertight. These barrels are commonly used in industries like brewing, winemaking, and distilling. The job requires craftsmanship, attention to detail, and knowledge of traditional and modern woodworking techniques.

What does a typical day look like for someone working in cooperage?

A typical day in cooperage involves constructing, repairing, and restoring wooden barrels or casks by shaping staves, assembling them with hoops, and ensuring each product meets quality standards. You might spend your time measuring and cutting wood, operating specialized tools, and working collaboratively with other skilled craftspeople in a workshop setting. The role often includes lifting heavy materials and maintaining a clean, safe work area. Team members regularly check each other's work, share best practices, and occasionally work directly with customers or clients, especially in custom or artisanal cooperage shops.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the cooperage position, and why are they important?

To thrive in cooperage, you need strong woodworking skills, mechanical aptitude, and an understanding of materials like wood and metal. Using hand tools, power tools, and traditional cooper's equipment is essential, and some positions may require apprenticeships or craft certifications. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to quality craftsmanship help individuals excel in this role. These abilities are critical to safely producing durable, high-quality barrels used in industries like wine, whiskey, and food storage.

What are popular job titles related to Cooperage jobs in Tennessee?

For Cooperage jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cooperage job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.

Production Associate Day Shift

Rickman Mill

Rickman, TN • On-site

$17/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Rickman Mill, a subsidiary of Independent Stave Company, a family-owned business, who has been committed to making quality cooperage products for four generations. We are looking to build a team of diverse and talented team members who can develop and grow with us as the world's leading manufacturer of white oak barrels.

PRODUCTION TEAM MEMBERS

  • Starting pay is $17.00 per hour. After an initial training period and depending on your production role, you will have the opportunity to earn additional incentive-based pay.
  • Fixed shift schedules consist of 10-hour shifts. (Monday-Thursday 6:00 am-4:30 pm)
  • We offer training and development opportunities, including on-the-job training and options for career advancement within the company.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Maintain quality and efficiency in fast-paced work environments and production lines.
  • Safely operate equipment used in various manufacturing processes.
  • Collaborate with co-workers and supervisors in a respectful and cooperative manner.
  • Keep work areas clean, organized, and free of hazards.
  • Demonstrate the ability to work in different body positions, including bending, stooping, standing, and to perform coordinated movements such as pulling, pushing, grasping, reaching, and using both arms effectively.
  • Other duties as assigned

BENEFITS

Independent Stave Company offers competitive compensation and benefits to employees at each of our facilities. Domestic benefits include:

  • Medical Insurance (after 30 days)
  • Annual HRAs cover the cost of single-pay insurance
  • Competitive Wages (Based on experience & position)
  • Dental Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Short Term Disability
  • Long Term Disability
  • Paid Vacation (see above)
  • 401(k) (Employer match equal to 50% of your "eligible contributions.")

*Some benefits are only available to full-time employees or after designated waiting periods.

To assist us in our interview process, please complete a brief assessment that will take 5-7 minutes. This assessment will be considered in conjunction with your application, work history, and resume.

Assessment Link: PI Assessment

Independent Stave Company is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.