VINEYARD MANAGER / VITICULTURALIST (Wine Jobs: Vineyards & Cellars )

  HAT Southwest Investments Pty Ltd

  Margaret River, Perth, Western Australia

HAT Southwest Investments is a recently established company, which aims to develop an existing property into a unique sustainable vineyard, create an eco-friendly farm environment and construct a new minimalist, energy efficient, low impact winery.

This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to join the team from the very outset and to be an integral part of a wholistic, inspirational, vineyard, farm and wine project.

We are seeking a highly experienced and qualified Vineyard Manager for this new dynamic venture in Margaret River, Western Australia. The planted vineyard area is 49 hectares and was initially established in 1996. Varieties include Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Shiraz, Malbec and Cabernet Franc.

We are committed to following organic and sustainable vineyard practices that maximise soil and vine health and enhance site expression. As this vineyard has been conventionally managed in the past, there will be a focus and end goal to convert the vineyard to a fully organic operation. This will require someone with a clear understanding of the organic conversion process, a systematic approach, and a passionate attention to detail.

JOB DESCRIPTION

This role demands the successful applicant to be organised and hands on, with the skills to manage staff and work independently. A self-motivated and passionate person with a fine wine grower mindset, good communication skills and relevant qualifications – preferably viticultural qualifications (although not essential). A working knowledge of organic viticulture would be essential, with experience in Australia, but also some overseas involvement would be highly regarded.

ROLE

• Oversee and implement our organic viticulture work program by engaging in all seasonal viticulture operations
• Oversee all farm activities including livestock management and other farm products, as necessary
• Regular monitoring and reporting of work program outcomes, pest and disease status, soil and vine health
• Comprehensively measure, monitor and report on operational and capital vineyard expenditure, yield forecasts and production outcomes against budget expectations using Excel and other database software
• Manage the sale of fruit to existing customers and ensure that communication to all buyers is proactive and contracts are fulfilled
• Lead the viticulture team of staff and contractors by example, promoting a high level of safety, adaptability, motivation and engagement in each task
• Ensure all vineyard staff and contractors are adequately trained and competent to perform their duties to highest quality, productivity and safety standards
• Maintain all vineyard assets, plant, equipment and infrastructure to the highest standards
• Ensure compliance of staff, contractors and vineyard visitors to best practice wine industry bio-security environmental and safety protocols

The applicant must have a valid driver's licence and forklift licence as well as a chemical user permit. The applicant must be an Australian citizen or resident or hold a valid Australian work visa.

A competitive salary package and fully maintained vehicle will be provided for the successful applicant.