Seasonal Tasting Room Associate - Northstar West

Ste. Michelle Wine Estates is the largest wine company in the Pacific Northwest and among the largest premium wine companies in the United States. With roots dating back to 1933, Ste. Michelle Wine Estates holds a rich history marked by an unwavering commitment to quality, exceptional customer service, and a deep connection with the community. Their award-winning wines, cultivated in Oregon and Washington, embody the spirit of the Pacific Northwest—highlighting the people, the abundance of the land, and a culture dedicated to excellence. The company’s portfolio includes distinguished brands such as Chateau Ste. Michelle, 14 Hands, Columbia Crest, Intrinsic, Liquid Light, Northstar, and Spring Valley Vineyard. These wines are enjoyed widely across the U.S. and are distributed in over 100 countries worldwide.

The Northstar brand, part of Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, offers a dedicated and exclusive space at Chateau Ste. Michelle in Woodinville, WA. The seasonal, part-time Tasting Room Associate role is stationed at this location and plays a vital part in shaping the winery experience. This position is hourly and eligible for tips, typically running during the busy season from May through October, with potential for schedule flexibility depending on business needs. The role requires evening and weekend availability to support the popular Summer Concert Series held on-site.

As a Tasting Room Associate for Northstar West, the successful candidate will serve as the face of the winery, ensuring every guest feels welcomed and enjoys a genuine connection with the brand. The associate is responsible for providing friendly, courteous, and professional service while interacting with a diverse array of guests. They will learn detailed product knowledge to assist customers with selections, purchases, and event-related inquiries. The role includes assisting with wine club and eCommerce order fulfillment, which encompasses pulling, packing, and processing orders for delivery and curbside pickup. Furthermore, the associate helps maintain the tasting room’s appearance and cleanliness, ensuring a high standard is upheld at all times.

Additional duties include operating POS registers to sell wine, merchandise, and wine club memberships, collecting tasting fees, and supporting all aspects of winery and private event setup, execution, and teardown as directed by management. Associates assist with enforcement of key winery policies, maintaining a professional environment. The position demands physical stamina, requiring the ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand or walk for extended periods.

Candidates for this seasonal role must be at least 21 years old and possess a high school diploma or equivalent. A MAST 12 Class Permit and Food Handler’s Permit are required. Two or more years of customer service experience, preferably in retail or hospitality, is essential. The ideal candidate will demonstrate excellent communication, customer service, and sales skills, the ability to multitask and prioritize within a fast-paced, team-oriented workplace, and an interest or knowledge of wine and the wine industry. Proficiency with POS systems and basic computer skills are also required. Flexibility and availability for varied hours including weekends are critical due to the nature of the business and event schedule. Candidates must demonstrate responsible alcohol use and meet licensing and permitting requirements set by state and local regulatory bodies.

The compensation range for this role is $17.13 to $22.12 per hour, based on relevant experience, with additional tips. Ste. Michelle Wine Estates prides itself on equal pay for equal work, offering competitive compensation packages that reflect candidates’ prior experience and education. The company culture emphasizes challenging oneself and others to perform at high standards, putting people first – including team members, customers, and communities – and fostering collaboration to achieve shared success. Ste. Michelle Wine Estates encourages those passionate about wine and customer experience to apply, offering an engaging seasonal role rich with potential and growth opportunities in the renowned Pacific Northwest wine region.