Receptionist | Abeja Winery

Abeja Winery Position Title: Receptionist Department: Hospitality / Administration Employment Classification: Seasonal, non-exempt Compensation: $20 - $22 per hour Work Location: Walla Walla, Washington Employment Outlook: Seasonal position with the potential to transition to a full-time position based on business needs, performance, and availability. Position Summary Abeja Winery is seeking a professional, organized, and personable Receptionist to serve as an initial point of contact for guests, customers, vendors, and business partners. This position provides administrative support primarily through telephone and email communications for both Abeja Winery and The Kitchen at Abeja. The ideal candidate will communicate clearly, demonstrate exceptional attention to detail, and represent both businesses with warmth, professionalism, and discretion. In addition to managing incoming communications, the Receptionist will assist with administrative tasks, special projects, and other duties as assigned to support the needs of the business. Knowledge of wine, familiarity with the wine industry, or previous experience in a winery, hospitality, or restaurant environment is preferred. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Telephone and Email Communications Answer and direct incoming telephone calls professionally and promptly. Monitor and respond to general email inquiries for Abeja Winery and The Kitchen at Abeja. Route inquiries to the appropriate department, manager, or team member. Take accurate messages and ensure timely follow-up on outstanding communications. Provide guests and customers with accurate information regarding general inquiries, winery experiences, restaurant services, events, and other offerings. Maintain a courteous, welcoming, and professional tone in all written and verbal communications. Administrative Support Assist with general administrative duties, data entry, document preparation, filing, and record maintenance. Maintain organized communication records and follow established procedures for handling inquiries. Support scheduling, coordination, and information distribution as needed. Handle confidential business and guest information responsibly. Special Projects and Departmental Support Assist with special projects, research, and administrative assignments as directed by management. Provide support for winery events, restaurant initiatives, hospitality programs, and other operational projects when needed. Collaborate with team members across departments to support effective communication and smooth daily operations. Perform other duties as assigned that are reasonably related to the position and business needs. Qualifications and Preferred Experience Required qualifications: Strong verbal and written communication skills. Professional telephone etiquette and customer service skills. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize responsibilities, and follow through on assignments. Basic computer proficiency, including email, word processing, and data entry. Dependable attendance, punctuality, and a professional approach to work. Ability to maintain discretion when handling confidential information. Must meet any lawful minimum-age requirements applicable to the position. Preferred qualifications: Knowledge of wine, wine regions, wine terminology, or the wine industry. Previous experience in a winery, tasting room, restaurant, hotel, or other hospitality environment. Experience in reception, office administration, customer service, or a similar role. Familiarity with business communication platforms, reservation systems, or customer relationship management software. Employment Status and Attendance Expectations This position is offered as seasonal, non-exempt employment. The anticipated schedule and duration of employment will depend on operational needs. The first 90 calendar days of employment will serve as an introductory attendance and punctuality review period. During this time, the employee's reliability, adherence to the established schedule, communication regarding absences or tardiness, and compliance with attendance policies will be evaluated. Employees are expected to arrive on time, be prepared to work at the beginning of their scheduled shifts, follow established call-out procedures, and communicate scheduling concerns promptly. Attendance expectations and any corrective action will be administered consistently with applicable Washington and federal employment laws, including legally protected leave and accommodation requirements. Successful completion of the 90-day review period does not guarantee continued employment or a transition to a permanent position. Compensation and Employment Conditions Hourly rate: $20 - $22 per hour. Classification: Non-exempt; eligible for overtime pay as required by applicable law. Schedule: Monday through Friday 9am to 5pm, occasional Saturdays during special events. Benefits: Eligibility for benefits, paid leave, and other compensation will be determined by the applicable company policies and governing law. Future opportunities: The position may transition to full-time employment if business needs, budget, and performance support such a change. A transition is not guaranteed. Reporting Structure: This position reports directly to the Hospitality Manager. The employee will receive all applicable wages and legally required meal and rest breaks, paid sick leave, and other protections in accordance with Washington State law and applicable federal requirements.