Harvest Assistant
| Posting date: | 12 August 2025 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 22 August 2025 |
| Location: | Haywards Heath, West Sussex |
| Remote working: | On-site only |
| Company: | Freixenet Copestick |
| Job type: | Temporary |
| Job reference: | FXC259 |
Summary
Join Bolney Wine Estate for the 2025 harvest and gain hands-on experience in one of England’s leading wineries.
As a Harvest Assistant, you’ll support the winemaking team during the most dynamic time of year — from grape reception to fermentation and pressing. This is a physically demanding, fast-paced role ideal for those passionate about wine and eager to learn in a collaborative, quality-focused environment.
Key Responsibilities
Harvest & Cellar Operations
• Assist with grape reception, sorting, and loading presses.
• Perform pump-overs, punch-downs, and fermentation monitoring.
• Support juice and wine transfers, racking, and additions (yeast, nutrients, SO₂).
• Help with barrel work, including cleaning and filling.
Sanitation & Hygiene
• Clean and sanitise tanks, hoses, fittings, and winery equipment.
• Follow strict hygiene and safety protocols (CIP, COSHH, SALSA).
• Maintain a tidy and organised cellar environment.
Equipment Handling
• Operate pumps, hoses, and other cellar equipment under supervision.
• Assist with basic maintenance and report any issues promptly.
• Support crate washing and press cleaning.
Logistics & Lab Support
• Support basic lab tasks such as Brix, pH, and temperature readings.
• Help with inventory movement and deliveries.
Team Collaboration
• Work closely with the Assistant Winemaker and cellar team to execute daily tasks.
• Follow instructions accurately and contribute to a positive, team-oriented environment.
• Support seasonal staff and interns during peak periods.
Person Specification
Essential:
• Physically fit and comfortable with manual labour and long hours.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.
• Right to work in the UK.
• Positive attitude, reliability, and team spirit.
Desirable:
• Previous harvest or winery experience.
• Forklift licence and/or UK driving licence.
• Interest in winemaking, viticulture, or sustainability.
• Experience with winery equipment and cellar tools.
Why This Role Matters
Harvest is the heartbeat of the winemaking year. As a Harvest Assistant, you’ll be part of a passionate team crafting the 2025 vintage from the ground up. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience, learn from experienced professionals, and contribute to the creation of award-winning English wines.
As a Harvest Assistant, you’ll support the winemaking team during the most dynamic time of year — from grape reception to fermentation and pressing. This is a physically demanding, fast-paced role ideal for those passionate about wine and eager to learn in a collaborative, quality-focused environment.
Key Responsibilities
Harvest & Cellar Operations
• Assist with grape reception, sorting, and loading presses.
• Perform pump-overs, punch-downs, and fermentation monitoring.
• Support juice and wine transfers, racking, and additions (yeast, nutrients, SO₂).
• Help with barrel work, including cleaning and filling.
Sanitation & Hygiene
• Clean and sanitise tanks, hoses, fittings, and winery equipment.
• Follow strict hygiene and safety protocols (CIP, COSHH, SALSA).
• Maintain a tidy and organised cellar environment.
Equipment Handling
• Operate pumps, hoses, and other cellar equipment under supervision.
• Assist with basic maintenance and report any issues promptly.
• Support crate washing and press cleaning.
Logistics & Lab Support
• Support basic lab tasks such as Brix, pH, and temperature readings.
• Help with inventory movement and deliveries.
Team Collaboration
• Work closely with the Assistant Winemaker and cellar team to execute daily tasks.
• Follow instructions accurately and contribute to a positive, team-oriented environment.
• Support seasonal staff and interns during peak periods.
Person Specification
Essential:
• Physically fit and comfortable with manual labour and long hours.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.
• Right to work in the UK.
• Positive attitude, reliability, and team spirit.
Desirable:
• Previous harvest or winery experience.
• Forklift licence and/or UK driving licence.
• Interest in winemaking, viticulture, or sustainability.
• Experience with winery equipment and cellar tools.
Why This Role Matters
Harvest is the heartbeat of the winemaking year. As a Harvest Assistant, you’ll be part of a passionate team crafting the 2025 vintage from the ground up. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience, learn from experienced professionals, and contribute to the creation of award-winning English wines.