Located in the Moorabool Valley Geelong, this role will be responsible for leading and overseeing the effective management of our vineyard whilst working in collaboration with our winery team to produce high quality fruit which is the backbone of our consistently fantastic wines!
About Austin’s + 6Ft6 Wines
Established in 1982, Austin’s Wines is one of Geelong’s most recognised wineries, combining originality with a clear regional style. With 160 acres under vine and 90+ acres being pinot noir, our vineyard on the rolling hills of the Moorabool Valley is well established and produces other stunning wines from its cool climate vineyard including riesling, chardonnay, pinot gris and shiraz.
We are a family owned and operated working winery made up of a small, driven and diverse group of people committed to creating, promoting and selling our product to customers across Australia.
Our culture is one that is down-to-earth, adventurous, welcoming and respectful; we strive for the highest standards both in the wines we produce and the people that belong to our amazing team.
Responsibilities
- Management and oversight of all vineyard activities including cultivation, pruning, planting, irrigation and harvest.
- Management of pests and disease.
- Irrigation - monitor and make recommendations related to the vine and seasonal requirements.
- Manage the acquisition of adequate tools and equipment as per requirements.
- Understand and train employees/ contractors as per company policies and government regulations.
- Effectively communicate and work cooperatively with the wider Austin’s team.
- Coordinate and oversee all vineyard operations including mowing, weed control, trimming and the timely application of sprays.
- Overall management of the vineyard team and contractors.
- Drive continuous improvement across all company viticulture for quality and sustainability; working alongside external consultants to improve fruit and wine quality, ensuring all seasonal parameters are met.
- Financial budgeting, crop forecasting, benchmarking and reporting for all vineyard operations.
- Working alongside the winemaker, assist with harvest timing providing efficient delivery of fruit during vintage.
- Support in hosting visitors to the winery and vineyard for promotional activity and events from time to time.
Who are we looking for?
Someone with a broad spectrum of industry knowledge and skills with proven experience in successfully managing all aspects of Vineyard operations.
Other skills, qualities and experience we’re looking for include:
- At least 5+ years in a similar role or relevant experience.
- A strong background of machinery operation including tractors and self-propelled grape harvesters.
- Attention to detail, logical thought process and strong work ethic.
- Personable and great at building productive relationships both internally and within the wider wine-community in the region.
- Enjoys operating independently and within a supportive team environment.
- Values a safe working environment and adheres to company health and safety policies.
- Interest and knowledge in Organic Processes is beneficial.
- Record keeping, compliance and basic report writing skills.
- Intermediate Microsoft Office skills.
- Valid vehicle and forklift license.
- Current agricultural chemical user permit.
This is the perfect opportunity for someone with the confidence and enthusiasm to drive continuous improvement and who is keen to have a genuine impact as part of our small, high performing team.
A competitive salary and the chance to make a valued contribution to the business and greater wine region are all on offer!
If you think you might be the pick of the crop for this role, then we’d love to hear from you!
Please send your CV with a cover letter providing the following detail:
- Your top 2 reasons as to why you’d be ideal for this role; and
- What you most enjoy about viticulture?
For further information on the company, visit our website www.austinswines.com.au
Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted so we thank you in advance for your interest in the role and taking the time to apply!