2026 Seasonal Viticulture Intern - Paso Robles/Central Coast

Description

O’Neill Vintners & Distillers was founded in 2004 with a simple idea from our founder, Jeff O’Neill, that great wines should be enjoyed by all. We believe those wines must be of exceptional quality, centered around our core belief that doing the right thing for our employees, consumers, partners, and the planet is key to a sustainable future. As our family-owned business has grown, so has our belief in business as a force for good. We are proud to be an industry leader in sustainability and a Certified B Corporation.

We are one of California's largest wineries, with operations in Larkspur, Sonoma, Paso Robles, and Parlier, CA. Our award-winning portfolio of consumer brands includes Line 39, FitVine, Harken Chardonnay, Rabble, Charles Woodson’s Intercept, Robert Hall, Allegro Cellars, Ram’s Gate, Substance, ViNO, 209 Gin, and BrandyLab.

Are you passionate about sustainable agriculture, the art of grape growing, and the science behind crafting world-class wines? Join our team as a Viticulture Intern and immerse yourself in the dynamic and rewarding world of vineyard management. As a Certified B Corporation, we are committed to balancing purpose and profit, using business as a force for good. This means you’ll not only gain valuable hands-on experience but also contribute to a company that prioritizes sustainability, community, and ethical practices.

WHAT YOU’LL GAIN:

• Hands-on experience in vineyard operations and exposure to all aspects of the growing season.
• Mentorship from seasoned viticulture and winemaking professionals.
• A deeper understanding of the connection between grape growing and wine production.
• The satisfaction of contributing to the production of exceptional wines.
• The opportunity to work with a Certified B Corporation, gaining insight into how sustainable and ethical practices drive both business success and positive change in the world.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES AKA WHAT YOU'LL DO: 

The following reflects management’s definition of essential functions for this job, but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.

• Assist with daily vineyard operations, including canopy management, irrigation monitoring, and crop thinning.
• Conduct field sampling and data collection to monitor vine health, growth stages, and fruit quality.
• Collaborate with the viticulture team on pest and disease scouting and implement sustainable solutions.
• Support the execution of viticultural experiments and collect data for ongoing research projects.
• Gain exposure to the planning and execution of harvest activities, from grape sampling to logistics coordination.
• Learn about sustainable farming practices and their impact on vineyard productivity and wine quality.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS AKA WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. 

• Enthusiasm for viticulture, agriculture, or a related field, demonstrated by a Bachelor’s degree or upper-division coursework in Viticulture and Agricultural sciences. 
• Willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Dependable and flexible for working varying shifts, overtime, weekends, and holidays. 
• Strong attention to detail and eagerness to learn.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• A valid driver’s license.

CULTURAL BEHAVIORS:

O’Neill team members are Forward Thinkers. Hard Working without Drama. Friendly Problem Solvers who work as One Team to Always Deliver.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to do the following: 

• Ability to lift 40 lbs.
• The position requires significant travel between vineyards.
• Must be able to walk and drive for long periods
• Primary work activities are in the environmental elements
• The employee is exposed to wet or humid conditions as well as inclement seasonal weather: summer heat, cold weather, and/or rain.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Ability to work indoors or outdoors in varying extremes of weather, including heat, cold, and rain.
• Will be provided with a work vehicle – must maintain an active driver’s license throughout the duration of the internship. 

California Pay Transparency Notice: This position is classified as non-exempt. The compensation range for this role is $21 to $23.25 per hour. Candidates are generally not hired at or near the maximum of the salary range. Final salary placement will depend on several factors, which may include the candidate’s qualifications, education, relevant experience, and alignment with current market data.

O’Neill Vintners & Distillers is an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of employment, including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.

All employees must pass a comprehensive background check and drug screen and adhere to all Company, Federal, and State Food Safety Regulations and Policies. This organization participates in E-Verify.

NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES

Please note that we do not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Recruitment Services Agreement, we will not consider, or agree to, payment of any referral compensation or recruiter fee. In the event that a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement, we explicitly reserve the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency.