Viticulturist
(Wine Jobs:
Vineyards & Cellars )
Full Time
West Kelowna,
British Columbia
About Frind Estate Winery
Established in 2017 with the purchase of the historic Bennett property in West Kelowna, Frind Estate Winery blends agriculture with technological opportunity. Markus Frind’s family has a farming history spanning 500 years, both in Germany and northern BC. After the successful sale of plentyoffish.com, Markus is focusing his efforts on pairing technology with agriculture to produce terroir-driven British Columbia wines of exceptional quality.
Frind Estate Winery has 15 vineyards across the Okanagan Valley, with 400 acres planted, and another 250 acres to be planted. We are looking for a VITICULTURIST to join our growing our team.
This position is responsible for managing the vineyard team, as well as the vineyards to ensure the production of high-quality grapes used in winemaking. They work closely with winemakers, ensuring that grape varieties are cultivated to meet the winery's specific quality and flavor standards.
The Viticulturalist plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and quantity of grapes harvested for winemaking. Their expertise contributes significantly to the overall success of a vineyard and the production of exceptional wines.
Key Responsibilities
Vineyard Planning and Establishment:
- Selects suitable vineyard sites based on factors like soil type, climate, and grape variety.
- Provides annual vineyard plans and crop estimates on assigned vineyard.
- Plans and establishes new vineyards, including planting grapevines, trellising, and irrigation systems.
- Provides strategic planning input on overall BC grape supply (planting, lease, GSA).
- Provides leadership and project management for large scale replanting and virus management projects.
- Maintains positive grower relations. Ensure that quality parameters are met from our growers. Manage contracts accordingly.
Grapevine Care:
- Monitors and manages vine health, including pruning, training, and canopy management.
- Implements pest and disease control measures to protect grapevines.
- Maintains soil health and fertility through soil analysis and appropriate treatments.
Harvest Planning:
- Collaborates with Winemakers on determining the optimal time for grape harvesting based on grape ripeness and intended wine style.
- Coordinates and oversees grape harvesting operations, including labour management.
Crop Yield Management:
- Manages crop yields by adjusting vineyard practices, such as thinning clusters or reducing vine vigor.
- Ensures that grape yields meet production goals without compromising grape quality.
Irrigation Management:
- Monitors and manages irrigation systems to ensure grapes receive the appropriate amount of water.
- Adjusts irrigation schedules based on weather conditions and soil moisture levels.
Data Collection and Analysis:
- Collects data on grapevine health, growth, and yield.
- Analyzes data to make informed decisions about vineyard practices and improvements.
Financial Management:
- Develops and manages department budget.
- Evaluates budget consistently throughout the year to ensure all department operations are within budget. Adjusts spending accordingly.
- Allocate resources efficiently, including labour, equipment, and materials.
Team Management:
- Develops and executes regular and seasonal workforce planning.
- Collaborates with Human Resources on the Temporary Foreign Worker Program
- Trains, oversees, motivates, mentors vineyard labour.
Regulatory Compliance:
- Ensures compliance with environmental regulations, vineyard safety standards, and industry best practices.
- Follows safe operating procedures, support safety programs and policies to safeguard personal safety, company property and team members safety.
Technology and Innovation:
- Operates machinery, and train others in safe equipment operations-SOPs
- Stays updated on industry trends and advancements in viticulture.
- Manages all internal and contracted grape acres for insects, disease, fertilization, weed control, crop load, irrigation, and canopy management
- Utilizes existing equipment and technology to its fullest potential. Implements automation processes to maximize efficiencies when practical and feasible.
- Provides leadership and project management for large scale replanting and virus management projects.
- Implements new technologies and practices to improve vineyard productivity and sustainability.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Viticulture, Oenology, Horticulture, Agriculture, or a related field.
- At least 5 years of vineyard experience in a management position.
- Strong knowledge of grape varieties, vineyard management practices, and pest and disease control.
- Exceptional organizing, planning, financial management, supervising, and problem-solving skills.
- Strong leadership, training, and decision-making skills.
- Strong multitasking skills, and managing of changing priorities skills while maintaining a positive attitude.
- Excellent (English) verbal and written communication skills.
- Experience operating applicable vineyard tools, irrigation systems, and related equipment.
- Ability to work in all weather conditions, including extreme temperatures.
- Must have a valid driver’s license.
- Available to work varying hours, depending on seasonal vineyard requirements.
- Knowledge of relevant regulations and environmental stewardship principles.
- Ability to lift 50lbs+.
Salary range: $125,000 - $140,000
If this position sounds like a perfect fit for you, please apply today!
