Vineyard Manager (Wine Jobs: Vineyards & Cellars )

  Fort Berens Estate Winery Ltd (http://www.fortberens.ca)

  Lillooet, British Columbia

To support us in growing premium grapes, we are looking for professional leadership in our vineyard. This is an exciting opportunity for the right individual looking to advance their career in viticulture. If you are qualified and are looking to live in a beautiful environment with affordable housing, and lots of outdoor activities, please apply now!

About us:
Our vineyard and winery are located in the magnificent Fraser Canyon across the Fraser River from the town of Lillooet. Lillooet is one of the "Hot Spots" in Canada, with a climate that is comparable with the South Okanagan. The Coast Mountains to the west of Lillooet keep rain and clouds away, ensuring that the vines receive plenty of sunshine. In 2009, we planted 20 acres with six varieties: Riesling, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. The vineyard was expanded in 2018, when we planted 9 more acres in Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Next year, nine acres more will follow. The Lillooet area became one of the new designated VQA areas in BC this year.

Our premium, award winning BC VQA wines are sold in the tasting room and in stores and restaurants across BC. We firmly believe that great wines start in the vineyard and farm our land according to the Sustainable Farming Practice. We are seeking a professional dedicated to growing premium grapes.

  

Responsibilities:

The Vineyard Manager’s role and responsibilities include:

·         Develop and manage the vineyard plan and related budget

·         Manage an established vineyard, nurture a young vineyard and plant a new vineyard

·         Build and manage a vineyard and harvest team

·         Ensure compliance with Federal and Provincial regulations like WorkSafe BC, WHMIS

·         Look after employee health and safety policies and procedures

The Vineyard Manager must be willing to work on a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, as needed.

 

Qualifications:

·         A minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience viticulture or horticulture;

·         A degree in viticulture is an asset;

·         Self-starter, with initiative and the desire to increase knowledge and skills;

·         A leader and team player, able to work and interact with many different players;

·         Physically fit and able to work outdoors throughout the year;

·         A focus on continuous learning and development in the vineyard managers role;

·         Functional knowledge of excel & word;

·         A valid passport; BC driver’s license; Pesticide Applicator Certificate; First Aid Level I

This is a full-time, year-round position, salary and benefits will be according to experience.

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