Internships
The Roots Fund Harvest Internship FAQ
Welcome to Harvest Season. We are excited for you to step into this transformative experience. Below are answers to common questions to help you prepare and feel confident before you arrive.
What is the Harvest Internship?
The Harvest Internship is an immersive, hands-on experience during the busiest and most exciting time of the winemaking year. You will work alongside production teams in the cellar and vineyard, gaining real-world experience in enology and winemaking.
When does harvest season typically take place?
Harvest usually runs late summer through fall, typically August through November in most US regions. Timing varies depending on the winery and growing conditions. Harvest for international placements can occur late August through early October for the fall season. Your host winery will confirm your exact start and end dates.
What kind of work will I be doing?
Harvest interns are essential to production. Tasks may include fruit receiving and sorting, crushing and pressing, pump overs and punch downs, cleaning and sanitizing tanks and equipment, lab work such as Brix, pH, and TA testing, barrel work, and general cellar support. Expect physical work, long days(8-13 hours), and a fast-paced environment.
How many hours will I work?
Harvest is intense. You may work 40 to 60 or more hours per week, including early mornings, late nights and weekends. Flexibility and stamina are key.
Is this a paid internship?
Compensation amounts vary by winery, but all host wineries participating in the Roots Fund Harvest Program do offer compensation. Some internships are paid hourly, monthly or with wine. You should consider all payment options before accepting the program.
Will housing be provided?
Housing depends on the winery. Some wineries offer on-site or arranged group housing, which may be free or deducted from your payroll. Every internship site is different. The Roots Fund offers housing when the winery doesn’t have a site. Housing is not free and is charged through the organization. Housing is paid monthly, and the first payment is usually with your first payroll. Housing can range from $400-$900 with utilities included. All Roots Fund housing is shared with 1-4 scholars. We have house rules and require weekly cleaning. No extended overnight guests over 3 nights with approval of housemates. A local vintage scholar will conduct house checks on a monthly basis.
Transportation, what is provided?
Transportation support is provided to/from the internship, whether it be traveling by flight or vehicle. If you are bringing a car, we don’t provide daily gas. However, we often assist in providing transportation through Turo. Our program with Turo can cost $300-$500 per month. You are responsible for maintaining vehicle cleanliness and one oil change during harvest if needed. All vehicle concerns are reported to the owner in Turo, and you also make the Roots Fund aware.
How do we communicate?
All communication is by email, leading up to harvest. Two weeks before harvest youll be added to a group text via WhatsApp. All housing, car, and basic check-ins happen in the group text. Anything private or specific to you, reach out to our office directly. All housing and car concerns can only be assisted by the Roots Fund.
What should I pack?
Harvest is physical and messy. Here is a list of items you will need to pack:
A great pair of waterproof, grippy boots, like hiking boots- The Roots Fund will provide this for you.
Comfortable jeans or work pants (No leggings or sweatpants) - Water-resistant pants such as these are recommended
Comfortable shirts (some that can be layered)
Hoodies
Warm socks
Sunscreen
Lip Balm with SPF
Hat for sun protection
Beanie for chilly mornings
Reusable water bottle
A small notebook & pens for taking notes
Small flashlight
Good quality hand moisturizer
Portable Charger
Small, portable bag to take daily (large enough to hold spare set of clothing)
What skills do I need?
We provide a series of videos and book learning that you'll need to complete and know before harvest. If you're working in the US, we encourage you to work on basic Spanish. If you're working internationally, learn some basics of the country you’ll be working in. It's important to have a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, a positive attitude, the ability to take feedback and a team mentality. Curiosity goes a long way.
What is expected of me as a Roots Fund intern?
You are a representative of The Roots Fund community. We expect professionalism, punctuality, respect for coworkers and supervisors, clear communication, and accountability. Show up ready, stay engaged, and ask questions. Communication is extremely important if any issues arise- we can’t help if we don’t know.
What if I experience challenges during my internship?
Harvest can be physically and emotionally demanding. If you encounter issues with your work environment, safet,y or fellow co-workers, communicate directly with your supervisor first. Reach out to The Roots Fund team after. We are here to support you.
How can I make the most of this experience?
Ask to shadow lab or vineyard work when possible. Build relationships with the cellar team. Keep a harvest journal. Taste intentionally and take notes. Reflect on what excites you about winemaking. Harvest is where many careers begin. Go into each day with a positive attitude and prepared to learn.
What happens after harvest?
Stay connected. Share updates with The Roots Fund, update your resume with your new skills, and attend scholar events and happy hours. Harvest is not the end. It is a launching point. You will receive surveys from the Roots Fund staff during the harvest experience and after- it is imperative that those surveys are completed thoughtfully and honestly.
Final word
Harvest is hard. It is messy. It is long. And it is unforgettable. You will learn a new skill, and something new may emerge about yourself. You are stepping into a global industry that needs your talent, perspective, and leadership. We are proud of you and excited to see you grow. If you have additional questions, reach out to us anytime.
