Viticulture Intern

A Viticulture Intern job in Prosser, WA based out of Horse Heaven Hills Wine Company is available at Ste. Michelle Wine Estates (SMWE). We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Viticulture Intern to join our team for the upcoming growing season. This position offers hands-on experience in vineyard operations, data collection, and exposure to sustainable viticulture practices. The intern will work closely with our viticulture team to support vineyard management activities and gain a comprehensive understanding of grapevine development, pest and disease management, and crop estimation techniques. This is a temporary, full-time internship designed for individuals pursuing a career in viticulture, enology, or related fields. We are targeting a start date in early June 2026 for this role and is expected to end in or before October 2026.

Ste. Michelle Wine Estates is the largest wine company in the Pacific Northwest, and among the largest premium wine companies in the U.S, with roots dating back to 1933. Throughout our 90+ year history, what has remained constant is our unwavering commitment to quality, service to our customers, and connection with our community. We are proud that our award-winning wines farmed in Oregon and Washington are an expression of all the best things about the Pacific Northwest - the spirit of people, the abundance of the land, and the excellence-driven culture. Our distinctive portfolio of wines, including Chateau Ste. Michelle, 14 Hands, Columbia Crest, Intrinsic, Liquid Light, Northstar, and Spring Valley Vineyard, are enjoyed across the U.S. and distributed in over 100 countries.

Viticulture Intern job responsibilities include:

• Conduct regular scouting for pest and disease pressure, vine health, and canopy conditions in both estate and grower vineyards.
• Collects and reports daily to viticulture technician on vine and fruit health and quality evaluations.
• Perform cluster counts, berry sampling, and crop estimates to assist in yield forecasting.
• Collect soil and tissue samples for nutrient analysis.
• Maintain accurate records of field observations, sampling data, and other relevant metrics.
• Provide timely updates to the viticulture team on vineyard conditions and potential issues.
• Supports a respectful and inclusive work environment enabling all team members to contribute to their full potential
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Position Requirements:

• High School diploma is required but college level coursework/training in plant sciences preferred.
• Good time management and organizational skills, good attention to detail and the ability to work independently is required.
• Previous experience in an agricultural related field desired; experience in viticulture environment preferred; basic understanding and interest in winemaking desired.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and IOS devices required, experience with GIS or vineyard management software is a plus.
• Must have a valid driver's license. Experience with an ATV is helpful.
• Able to lift approximately 50 lb. with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Must be able to operate an ATV on rough terrain for long hours.
• Must be able to work extended hours and weekends outdoors in inclement weather.

Your Compensation:

$18.00 - $21.00/hr. based upon relevant experience.

At Ste. Michelle Wine Estates we believe in paying our employees equal pay for equal work. Individual offers are made dependent upon a candidate's prior experience and education level as it pertains to the role.

Culture at Ste. Michelle:

We Challenge: We are driven to succeed in everything we do, and we challenge ourselves and our team to perform at the highest level.

We Care: We put people first - our team, our consumers, our customers, our communities.

We Collaborate: We believe there is nothing we can't accomplish - together - and we believe lifting up those around us is essential to achieving both individual and collective success.

Harvest your potential, Uncork the possibilities!

Need assistance with the application process? Click here to review step by step instructions available in English or Spanish.

Ste. Michelle Wine Estates is an equal opportunity employer. We consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other protected class. For more information, see the EEOC's "Equal Employment Opportunity is The Law" poster.

Ste. Michelle Wine Estates participates in E-Verify. E-Verify is a United States Department of Homeland Security website that allows businesses to determine the eligibility of their employees to work in the United States. Please visit the following website for additional information: https://www.e-verify.gov/about-e-verify/what-is-e-verify