Vineyard Manager
(Wine Jobs:
Vineyards & Cellars )
Full Time
Niagara on the Lake,
Ontario
Southbrook Vineyards is a family owned and operated 150 acre biodynamic farm in Niagara on the Lake, Ontario, Canada. We are currently looking to hire a full-time Vineyard Manager to manage our 60 acre vineyard operation as part of the production team. This is a full-time permanent position based in Niagara on the Lake, Ontario. The ideal candidate is a high-energy, self-motivated, responsible individual with vineyard management experience, who can work well in a team scenario, as well as independently. Our vineyards are certified organic and biodynamic because we feel it’s the best choice for our land, our team members, and our wines. Ultimately, the individual who fills this position has the exciting opportunity to play an important part in furthering the exploration of Niagara’s distinctive terroir.
The Role
The primary responsibility of the Vineyard Manager is day to day management of vineyard operations to ensure soil and vine health and production of the highest quality grapes for organic and biodynamic winemaking, and including maintaining all farm equipment and wind machines. This individual will work closely with the winemaker and field team to accomplish company goals. Planning, budgeting and organic/BD certification administration is included in this role.
The Vineyard Manager will maintain competence in key vineyard operation and management functions including:
§ Managing vineyard labour crew
§ Implementing safety program
§ Operation and maintenance of tractors and other farm equipment, including wind machines
§ Development and adherence to organic and BD spray schedule
§ Vineyard renovation and replanting as needed
§ Frost protection, and other weather related management
§ Planting, pruning, and training of grapevines
§ Training of crew
§ Accurate and regular record keeping
§ Spanish language skills are an asset
Requirements
§ Previous vineyard management and hands-on vineyard experience and formal viticulture education.
§ Competency in safe operation and repair of vineyard equipment
§ Experience in organic/biodynamic farming
§ Possess successful problem-solving abilities
§ Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and periodic overtime (especially during harvest season; Sept-Dec)
§ Ability to perform physically demanding tasks outdoors in changing weather conditions
§ Flexible thinking – ability to manage changing priorities while maintaining a positive attitude
Qualifications:
§ BSc. Or Diploma in Enology, Viticulture or related field.
§ 5+ years of vineyard supervisory or management experience.
§ 2+ years in wine production
§ Communicate effectively in English and Spanish while working safely with co-workers
§ Spray certification
§ Comfortably use Microsoft Excel, Word, Power Point and other programs
§ Be very detail oriented and complete tasks in a safe and efficient manner.
§ On-going organic and/or BD training/development is needed to keep current in this position
§ Canadian citizenship/residency or a valid Canadian work permit preferred.
This is a full time salaried position. Salary is commensurate with experience. Potential for employee benefit package.
Note: only those selected for an interview will be contacted.