Assistant Winemaker / Cellar Hand – Maternity Leave CoverAssistant Winemaker / Cellarhand – Maternity Leave CoverLocation: Krinklewood Estate, Broke, Hunter Valley NSWEmployment type: Full-time, fixed-term maternity leave coverDuration: Minimum six months, with the possibility of extension if requiredCommencement: 4 January ****, with some flexibility by agreementHours: 38 hours per week, with additional hours required during vintageRemuneration: Competitive salary based on experience, plus superannuationKrinklewood Estate is seeking an experienced, hands‐on Assistant Winemaker or Cellarhand to join our small winery team for a full‐time maternity leave cover position.This role would suit an experienced cellar professional who has completed multiple vintages and is confident working autonomously.
It offers the opportunity to take genuine responsibility for the day‐to‐day operation of the cellar while working within a clearly established winemaking program and with the support of an experienced replacement winemaker.About KrinklewoodKrinklewood Estate is a certified organic and biodynamic vineyard and winery located in Broke, in the Hunter Valley.We produce wines from our own certified organic and biodynamic vineyard while also providing contract processing for other wine producers.During the upcoming vintage, we expect to process approximately 35 tonnes of fruit from our estate vineyard and several external growers, including both organic and conventionally grown fruit.Maintaining strict separation between fruit and wines, preventing cross‐contamination, and keeping accurate winery records are fundamental requirements of this role.
Our organic and biodynamic certification also requires a high standard of traceability and documentation to support our ACO audits.About the roleThe successful candidate will initially work closely with our Head Winemaker, learning Krinklewood's wines, cellar processes, production program and certification requirements before the Head Winemaker commences maternity leave in mid‐February.During her leave, an experienced replacement winemaker will attend the winery approximately once a week to oversee the winemaking program,



assess the wines and establish priorities for the week.You will be responsible for carrying out that program and managing the day‐to‐day cellar operations between visits.You will not be expected to make major winemaking decisions independently.
However, you must have the experience and judgement to work autonomously, identify anything requiring attention and communicate promptly with the replacement winemaker.Key responsibilitiesDuring vintage, you will:Receive and process fruit, including crushing, pressing and transfersUndertake pump‐overs, plunging, racking, additions and fermentation workConduct daily cellar and fermentation checksFollow the established winemaking program accuratelyOperate the forklift and other winery equipment safelyMaintain excellent cellar hygiene and winery organisationKeep accurate production, traceability and compliance recordsMaintain strict separation between organic, biodynamic and conventional fruit and winesAssist with filtration, bottling and preparation for bottlingUndertake general winery and equipment maintenanceCommunicate regularly with the replacement winemaker regarding progress, priorities and potential issuesManage and prioritise the daily cellar workload between winemaker visitsThis is a hands‐on and physically demanding position, particularly during vintage.
The successful candidate will be the primary person carrying out the cellar's day‐to‐day operational work.Additional hours and some weekend work may be required during vintage, depending on fruit arrivals and production requirements.After vintageFollowing vintage, the role will continue to support the day‐to‐day operation of the winery.Responsibilities will include cellar work, wine preparation, filtration and bottling support, stock organisation, winery maintenance and the implementation of the weekly production plan.The replacement winemaker will continue to provide oversight and establish priorities,



while you will be trusted to carry out the required work independently and keep the winery operating safely, cleanly and efficiently.About youTo be considered for this position, you will have:A minimum of three completed vintagesStrong practical cellar experienceExperience completing at least one vintage in Australia or Recent Zealand, preferredA current forklift licenceValid Australian working rights for the full duration of the positionA sound understanding of cellar operations and fundamental winemaking processesThe confidence and experience to work autonomously within an established winemaking programExcellent attention to detail, particularly regarding hygiene, traceability and record‐keepingStrong organisational and task‐management skillsThe ability to recognise potential issues and elevate them appropriatelyThe physical capacity to undertake the lifting and demanding cellar work associated with vintageA proactive, practical attitude and willingness to assist wherever requiredA current RSA, or willingness to obtain oneA current driver's licence and reliable transportYour own accommodation within reasonable travelling distance of the wineryWinery, Wine Club and logistics supportAs part of a small team, you will occasionally assist with practical tasks outside the cellar when production requirements allow.These may include:Restocking the Cellar Door and coolroomPacking and dispatching online and Wine Club ordersPreparing wine for courier and freight collectionMoving and organising stockAssisting with Wine Club fulfilmentSupporting general warehouse and winery logisticsAssisting the wider team with other practical tasks when requiredThe role's primary focus will remain cellar and winery operations, but a willingness to pitch in across the wider business is essential.Why join Krinklewood?
This is a rewarding opportunity for an experienced cellarhand or developing assistant winemaker who enjoys practical winery work and is ready to take greater responsibility within a small, collaborative team.You will gain hands‐on experience across organic and biodynamic production, contract winemaking, compliance, cellar management and the complete vintage cycle, with ongoing direction and support from experienced winemakers.
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📌 Assistant Winemaker / Cellar Hand – Maternity Leave Cover (Broken Hill)
🏢 Krinklewood Estate
📍 Broken Hill