Live-On-Site Vineyard & Property Assistant

Job Description:

Spanish-speaking applicants are welcome. Se habla español. A résumé is not required; applicants may provide a brief work history and professional references.

Ektimo Vineyards, a working winery and estate vineyard in Sebastopol, is seeking a dependable, hands-on individual to live on the property and help care for our vineyard, grounds, and estate.

Under the direction of our vineyard management consultant, this person will independently carry out routine, year-round vineyard work according to established plans and instructions. Additional temporary or seasonal crews may be hired for time-sensitive or labor-intensive work such as harvest and pruning.

The vineyard and property will be the primary responsibilities of this position. When outdoor work permits and the winery needs additional help, the employee may also assist with basic winery production and cellar work.

This position is well suited to someone who enjoys plants, farming, and outdoor work; takes pride in caring for a property; and is comfortable working independently.

Vineyard Responsibilities

Carry out scheduled vineyard work under the direction of the vineyard management consultant

Monitor vine health, irrigation, weeds, pests, disease symptoms, and general vineyard conditions

Perform routine vine training, canopy work, irrigation checks, weed management, and other seasonal vineyard maintenance

Inspect irrigation lines and make minor repairs when possible

Maintain basic records of completed work and vineyard observations

Promptly report vineyard problems or concerns to the consultant and winery management

Properly use and care for vineyard tools and equipment

Assist seasonal crews during pruning, harvest, and other time-sensitive periods

Follow all vineyard and equipment safety procedures

Grounds and Property Care

Mow and trim grass and control weeds, especially during the rainy and growing seasons

Provide basic care for the property’s trees, plants, and small garden area

Keep the winery grounds and outdoor work areas clean, orderly, and safe

Regularly observe the condition of roads, drainage areas, fences, gates, irrigation, and other exterior areas

Perform basic maintenance and minor repairs when within the employee’s experience and abilities

Promptly report problems that require professional repair or outside assistance

Keep tools, equipment, and storage areas clean and organized

Assist outside contractors when requested

Occasional Winery and Cellar Support

When vineyard and property responsibilities permit and the winery needs additional help, the employee may occasionally:

Assist with bottling, labeling, packing, and general winery production

Help clean and sanitize cellar, production, equipment, and storage areas

Move and organize supplies, case goods, equipment, and winery materials

Perform basic cellar tasks under the supervision of the winemaker

Provide general assistance during harvest, bottling, and other busy production periods

Previous cellar experience is not required. We are happy to train a dependable employee who is interested in learning more about winery and cellar operations.

On-Site Residence

Living in the provided private one-bedroom residence on the winery property is a requirement of this position.

The employee will provide a consistent and responsible on-site presence and is expected to promptly report unusual activity, alarms, leaks, irrigation failures, storm damage, open gates, or other urgent property concerns.

This is not a 24-hour security position. Living on the property outside scheduled working hours does not, by itself, mean the employee is on duty. Specifically requested after-hours work will be recorded and compensated in accordance with applicable law.

Qualifications

Dependable, trustworthy, honest, observant, and responsible

Comfortable working independently and following an established work plan

Genuine interest in vineyards, farming, plants, landscaping, or outdoor property care

Previous vineyard, agricultural, landscaping, gardening, groundskeeping, or property-maintenance experience preferred

Able to identify problems and communicate concerns promptly

Willing to perform different hands-on tasks as seasonal priorities change

Able to work outdoors in changing weather conditions and on uneven ground

Able to safely perform physically demanding work and lift up to 50 pounds

Able to safely use hand tools and basic outdoor equipment

Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation

Legally authorized to work in the United States

Able to communicate effectively in English or Spanish; bilingual skills are a plus

Experience with irrigation, tractors, vineyard equipment, landscaping equipment, forklifts, or cellar work is a plus

Compensation and Housing

The pay range is $20.00–$23.00 per hour, depending on relevant vineyard, farming, landscaping, irrigation, equipment, and property-maintenance experience. Overtime will be paid as applicable.

A private one-bedroom residence on the winery property is provided at no rent. Living on the property is a condition of employment. Housing is provided in addition to hourly wages and does not replace payment for hours worked.

Ektimo Vineyards is an equal opportunity employer.

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