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Distillery Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

As the Distillation Lead, you will own the strategy and execution for distillation across Waabi's AI stack, ensuring our most capable models run efficiently in every deployment context. You will ...

As the Distillation Lead, you will own the strategy and execution for distillation across Waabi's AI stack, ensuring our most capable models run efficiently in every deployment context. You will ...

You will own distillation, quantization, and architecture-aware compression as a first-class work-stream. Responsibilities * Design and execute distillation strategies (response, feature, and self ...

On-Device Research Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$120K - $300K/yr

You will own distillation, quantization, and architecture-aware compression as a first-class work-stream. Responsibilities * Design and execute distillation strategies (response, feature, and self ...

Senior Applied Scientist

San Jose, CA · On-site

$107K - $146K/yr

Responsibilities : • Develop and run distillation pipelines to transfer capabilities from large teacher models into smaller, efficient student models. • Carry out and refine post-training methods ...

Senior Applied Scientist

San Jose, CA

$107K - $146K/yr

Develop and run distillation pipelines to transfer capabilities from large teacher models into smaller, efficient student models. * Carry out and refine post-training methods including supervised ...

Senior Applied Scientist

San Jose, CA · On-site

$107K - $146K/yr

Develop and run distillation pipelines to transfer capabilities from large teacher models into smaller, efficient student models. * Carry out and refine post-training methods including supervised ...

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Distillery information

See California salary details

$8

$18

$32

How much do distillery jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for distillery in California is $18.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Distillery Worker, you need knowledge of brewing and distillation processes, attention to detail, and often a background in food science or chemistry. Familiarity with fermentation tanks, stills, quality testing equipment, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving skills, and the ability to follow precise instructions set outstanding workers apart. These skills ensure the production of high-quality spirits, maintain safety and compliance standards, and support efficient operations.

What is the difference between Distillery vs Brewer?

AspectDistilleryBrewer
CredentialsDistillation certification, alcohol licensingBrewing certification, fermentation knowledge
Work EnvironmentDistillation facilities, production floorsBrewpubs, breweries, production lines
Industry UsageSpirit production (whiskey, vodka, rum)Beer production (lager, ale, stout)
Common Search/ComparisonDistillery jobsBrewer jobs

While both roles involve beverage production, a distillery focuses on creating spirits through distillation, requiring specific licenses and expertise in alcohol separation. A brewer specializes in brewing beer through fermentation, with skills centered around brewing processes. Both roles are essential in the alcohol industry but differ in techniques, equipment, and end products.

What are distillery jobs?

Distillery jobs focus on brewing, bottling, and shipping alcohol. As a distiller, you may use your knowledge of the craft to create unique drinks, support the production of brand-name products, or generally ensure that distilling operations continue as intended. Many parts of the brewing process must occur on a short deadline, so distillers occasionally work unusual hours when producing specialty products. Some distilleries focus on specific products, such as whiskey, while others create a wider selection of products. Outside of creating alcoholic drinks, can also find work as an engineer who maintains the machines, a driver who transports products to and from the distillery, or a manager who oversees daily operations.

What is a distillery?

A distillery is a facility where alcoholic beverages such as whiskey, vodka, rum, or gin are produced through the process of distillation. Distillation involves heating a fermented liquid to separate alcohol from water and other components, resulting in a higher concentration of alcohol. Distilleries can range from small craft operations to large-scale industrial plants, and they often include areas for fermentation, distillation, aging, and bottling. Many distilleries also offer tours and tastings to educate visitors about the production process and the history of their spirits.

What are some common challenges faced by distillery operators, and how can they be addressed?

Distillery operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, adhering to strict safety and sanitation standards, and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions. Addressing these issues requires strong attention to detail, regular equipment maintenance, and a solid understanding of the distillation process. Collaboration with quality control teams and ongoing training in best practices can help operators stay ahead of potential problems and ensure smooth, efficient production.

Is it fun to work at a distillery?

Working as a distillery worker can be enjoyable for those interested in beverage production and craftsmanship. The job often involves hands-on tasks, teamwork, and working in a lively environment, which can be rewarding for individuals passionate about spirits and brewing processes.
What are the most commonly searched types of Distillery jobs in California? The most popular types of Distillery jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Distillery jobs in California? For Distillery jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Distillery jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Distillery jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Distillery jobs? Cities in California with the most Distillery job openings:
Infographic showing various Distillery job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,612 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Seasonal Distillation Technician

Nexus Agriscience

Byron, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Salary: $22.56 - $25/hour


Seasonal Distillation Technician

Nexus Agriscience


Job Title: Seasonal Distillation Technician

Job Type: Temporary/Seasonal

Duration: 4 months, subject to change according to business needs.

Location:5840 Lindeman Rd. Byron, CA 94505 (on-site)

Reports To: Drew Lischeske

Salary: $22.56 - $25/hour


Job Summary

Nexus Agriscience is hiring a Seasonal Distillation Technician to support harvest-season operations at our Byron, California farm. This hands-on role involves daily steam distillation, equipment operation, and general production support, working closely with the operations team. The position follows a MondaySaturday schedule with approximately 910-hour shifts beginning around 7:30 a.m. Because shifts exceed 8 hours per day and the workweek exceeds 40 hours, overtime premiums apply as noted above. Basic distillation knowledge is a plus, but its not required. A willingness to learn, a strong work ethic, and a positive attitude matter most.


Key Responsibilities

  • Assist with daily operations involving basic steam distillation processes and equipment maintenance.
  • Perform manual labor tasks, including lifting and transporting materials weighing up to 60 lbs.
  • Maintain cleanliness, organization, and proper functioning of equipment and workspaces.
  • Follow operational procedures and safety guidelines related to distillation and other processes.
  • Operate equipment and support production needs as required.
  • Troubleshoot minor technical issues with equipment, reporting larger concerns to management. Collaborate with team members to meet daily production goals.
  • Adhere to all safety and quality standards to maintain a safe work environment.
  • Maintain strong attention to detail in all tasks, ensuring accuracy and compliance with company standards.


Required Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent (GED) preferred, or equivalent practical work experience.
  • Basic knowledge of distillation processes and equipment, or a willingness to learn.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 60 lbs. and stand for extended periods.
  • Comfortable in a physically demanding, hands-on environment.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.
  • Able to work 9-10 hour shifts, Monday-Saturday, starting around 7:30am.
  • Team-oriented, self-motivated, and able to stay focused during long shifts.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous experience in manual labor or a manufacturing/production environment.
  • Familiarity with basic industrial safety practices.
  • Bilingual in English and Spanish, supporting clear team coordination and safety communication is highly preferred.


Work Environment

  • This role involves the essential physical functions of prolonged standing and walking, repeated lifting and carrying of materials up to 60 lbs, and hands-on operation of distillation equipment, with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Work is performed in a production setting with regular exposure to steam distillation processes, elevated heat and humidity, moisture, and strong plant odors.
  • The company maintains a safe workplace in accordance with Cal/OSHA standards, including heat illness prevention measures, required rest and cool-down periods, access to shade and water, and employer-provided personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Reasonable accommodation is available to qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role.


Equal Opportunity

Nexus Agriscience is an equal opportunity employer, and does not unlawfully discriminate against, make employment decisions, or permit harassment based on perceived or actual race, color, religion, sex, national origin, citizenship, immigration status, marital status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity characteristics or expression, disability, medical condition, U.S. Military or veteran status, salary history, or any other basis protected under federal, state, or local laws, regulations, or ordinances. Nexus Agriscience is committed to complying with all applicable laws providing equal employment opportunities, including but not limited to the Fair Pay Act, FEHA, and all applicable laws and ordinances regarding conviction and arrest history.