Sales Associate Lead

Tasting Room Expo; California (MO); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in the wine sector is looking for a passionate Sales Associate Lead to elevate guest experiences through engaging wine tastings and exceptional customer service. This role combines leadership with a deep knowledge of viticulture, ensuring that each visitor leaves with a memorable experience. The ideal candidate will be a wine enthusiast, capable of educating guests about the wines and the winemaking process, while also managing tasting room operations. With a commitment to sustainability and quality, this position offers a unique opportunity to grow within the vibrant wine industry.

Benefits

Competitive pay + tips/commissions

Employee discounts on wine and merchandise

Ongoing wine education and training opportunities

Opportunities to participate in vineyard activities

Career growth in the wine industry

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of viticulture and winemaking is essential.
• Previous experience in hospitality or wine retail is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead engaging wine tastings and ensure exceptional guest experiences.
• Oversee tasting room operations and assist with inventory management.

Skills

Wine Knowledge

Hospitality Experience

Leadership Skills

Customer Service

Tech-Savvy

Education

WSET Certification

CMS Certification

CSW Certification

Tools

POS Systems

Reservation Platforms

CRM Tools

Job description

Title: Sales Associate Lead

Reports to: Sr. Retail & Hospitality Manager

Status: Full Time, Non-Exempt (Benefits Eligible)

Location: Rutherford, CA

Job Description:

Rutherford Hill Winery is seeking an exceptional candidate for the role of Sales Associate Lead. The Sales Associate Lead is a key brand ambassador for Rutherford Hill and is responsible for providing guests top of class hospitality and customer service. This position ensures each guest has a memorable and exceptional winery experience, where the focus is on the brand story, customer service, wine education and sales, and wine club sign ups. The Lead works closely with both the Sr. Retail and Hospitality Manager and the Hospitality Manager to support the day-to-day operations of the Tasting Room.

About Us

Rutherford Hill is dedicated to crafting exceptional wines while fostering a welcoming and educational experience for our guests. We are committed to sustainability, quality, and storytelling—offering immersive tastings that bring our wines and vineyards to life.

Position Overview

We are seeking a Sales Associate Lead to oversee guest experiences, host engaging wine tastings, and educate visitors on our wines, winemaking philosophy, and sustainability practices. This role is perfect for a passionate wine professional with leadership skills, a talent for hospitality, and a deep knowledge of viticulture and wine service.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Experience & Wine Education

1. Lead interactive and engaging wine tastings, ensuring a memorable and educational experience for guests.
2. Share detailed knowledge of our wines, winemaking process, and vineyard sustainability efforts.
3. Assist guests with wine selection and purchases, offering pairing recommendations and insights.
4. Uphold exceptional customer service standards, creating a welcoming environment for all visitors.

Tasting Room Operations & Sales

1. Oversee daily tasting room operations, ensuring smooth service and an outstanding guest experience.
2. Assist with inventory management, including stocking wine, glassware, and merchandise.
3. Process sales transactions, wine club sign-ups, and reservations using POS systems.
4. Meet and exceed sales goals by recommending wine club memberships and exclusive offerings.

Team Leadership & Training

1. Train and mentor tasting room staff on wine knowledge, service techniques, and customer engagement.
2. Ensure staff maintains winery standards in presentation, cleanliness, and hospitality.
3. Support the Hospitality Manager with scheduling, event execution, and operational tasks.

Events & Wine Education Programs

1. Lead private tastings, wine education classes, and VIP experiences.
2. Assist in hosting winery events, dinners, and release parties.
3. On occasion represent Rutherford Hill offsite for consumer and trade tastings, networking mixers, or outreach efforts.

Qualifications & Skills

1. Wine Knowledge & Passion – Strong understanding of viticulture, winemaking, and wine service. Certification (WSET, CMS, CSW, or equivalent) is a plus.
2. Hospitality & Sales Experience – Previous experience in a tasting room, restaurant, or wine retail setting preferred.
3. Leadership Skills – Ability to train, motivate, and lead a team with enthusiasm and professionalism.
4. Customer-Centric Approach – Strong communication skills and a natural ability to engage with guests.
5. Tech-Savvy – Comfortable using POS systems, reservation platforms, and CRM tools.
6. Physical Requirements – Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.
7. Ability to work weekends and holidays.
8. Must be at least 21 years in age.

Perks & Benefits

1. Competitive pay + tips/commissions.
2. Employee discounts on wine and merchandise.
3. Ongoing wine education and training opportunities.
4. Opportunities to participate in vineyard and winemaking activities.
5. Career growth in the wine industry.

Apply Here: https://www.click2apply.net/NLqXwyH7X12EWuAwqcKPpq