Job Status: Filled

Vineyard Operator / Manager (Wine Jobs: Vineyards & Cellars )

Full Time

  Private Advertiser

  Bunbury & South West, Western Australia

Role reports to: Owner and Farm Manager

About the operations

We are a boutique operation, on a private family owned rural estate, comprising thoroughbreds, cattle and early stage vineyard operations located in the Margaret River/Yallingup region of Western Australia.

There is an initial 5-6 hectares of vines under development. Development is about 50% complete. Full completion is expected within 2 years.

There is a team of 5 or 6 full time equivalent employees working in the different areas of operations and we are seeking an experience vineyard operator or manager to join the team.

About the role

This is a hands on, full time role and is a great opportunity for someone to be involved in both the development and husbandry of the vineyard from its infancy. The successful candidate will share our values of being honest, hard-working and motivated to create an “A” grade product in all respects. It will be important to be a self-starter and take great pride in your work as the vineyard will be yours.

Primary objectives

  • Manage the ongoing/remaining development of the vineyard
  • Plan and manage all the operational requirements of the vineyard
  • Prepare annual vineyard budget in conjunction with Farm Manager and Finance Manager
  • Work with management to budget and production goals
  • Ensure all vineyard equipment is maintained and operational / Ensure that all necessary equipment is on site and in good operating condition prior to work
  • Ensure safety standards and procedures are adhered to

Major responsibilities

Vine Management

  • Planning, planting and cultivating new vines
  • Pruning, shoot and fruit thinning, de-suckering, wire lifting, training of young vines and other seasonal activities
  • Monitor vines for pest and disease issues
  • Make recommendations related to vineyard and fruit quality

Irrigation and Trellis

  • Plan irrigation and trellis layout for new vine areas, and manage installation
  • Monitor irrigation for any leaks and repair as required
  • Repair trellis posts and wires as required
  • Make recommendations related to vineyard and fruit quality

Chemical Management

  • Store and apply chemicals in accordance with manufacturers directions
  • Ensure all appropriate personal protective equipment is used when applying chemicals
  • Maintain chemical log in accordance with legislative requirements

Machinery operations

  • Perform various tractor operations including spraying, slashing, hedging, undervine weeding, cultivation, etc

Harvest management

  • Must be able to reasonably estimate harvest equipment needed, provide accurate harvest estimates
  • Carry out pre-harvest preparation activities
  • Harvesting operations and support activities
  • Assist in hand picking operations
  • Complete all post harvest clean up operations

Essential criteria

  • 7 years practical experience within viticulture industry
  • Experience with use and maintenance of vineyard plant and equipment
  • Prepared to work flexible hours and do overtime as required
  • Prepared to work in all weather conditions
  • Drivers licence
  • Australian citizenship or residency or a valid existing Australian work visa

Desirable criteria

  • Relevant qualification in viticulture / horticulture
  • Good communication and organisational ability

This is a full time, permanent position. Remuneration package approximately $75,000 including super.

Relocation and 3 months rental support if required

Please provide a cover letter addressing the primary objectives of the role and an up-to-date resume.

Applications close Sunday 7th July 2019


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