Job Description
Description
Located in Gretna, Nebraska, Vala’s is a family owned and operated fall festival open to the public 45 to 55 days a year and is a treasured fall tradition for many families in the surrounding communities. Vala’s property spans 400+ acres, including over 50 attractions, such as pick-your-own pumpkins, apples, and flowers, and over 25 food locations. Vala’s Orchard Cider Co. joined the farm in 2020, crafting hard and sweet ciders served exclusively on the farm during season, as well year round with our shipping partner, Vinoshipper.
The Hard Cider Production Assistant is responsible for supporting the production process from start to finish. Reporting to the Cider Production & Quality Control Manager, the Assistant will work through all steps of the production process from pressing apples and fermentation to bottling and packing. The person in this role will develop the skills required to monitor and execute all aspects of cider production through training, experiential learning and other educational opportunities. Additionally, this position will support cleaning and sanitizing equipment, as well as maintaining a clean production warehouse. This is a part to full time position and is dependent on the production schedule set by the Cider Production & Quality Control Manager.
Requirements
Production process including pressing apples, fermentation, bottling and packaging
Assisting with blending tanks and barrels, tank transfers, and fermentation monitoring
Support all record keeping processes used for quality control and production
Learn and apply food safety and sanitation standards
Clean and sanitize equipment and production workspaces
This job description includes essential job functions for the position. When Vala’s is open to the public, other duties may include:
Working additional days and hours as dictated by production and business needs including weekends
Assist in the apple harvest in the fall season, as needed
Assist in the care and maintenance of the orchard, as needed
Assist with the sale of alcoholic beverages throughout the farm
Stocking locations with bottles and kegs
What We’re Looking For:
Must be 21 years of age or older
Confident self-starter
Detail oriented and comfortable with recording data using computers and standard office software
Ability to lift 60 lbs or more; this position requires lifting, equipment handling, and being on your feet for long periods of time
Willing to learn how to safely operate equipment and vehicles, including skidsteer, telehandler and Forklift
Ability to complete alcohol service training and uphold all policies within Vala’s Orchard Cider Co.
Brewery or Cidery experience preferred
Experience working in an orchard or other agriculture environment a plus
Bilingual (Spanish and English) a plus
Job Tags
Full time, Part time, Work at office