Vineyard Estate Manager

Job Description

Job Description

The Winery at Bull Run

Vineyard Estate Manager Job Description Position

Overview The Vineyard Estate Manager is responsible for all aspects of farming operations, including strategic direction as well as day-to-day operations.

The Winery at Bull Run produces 10,000 to 15,000 cases/year of wine. We operate our own vineyards in three different locations in Northern Va. For a total of 55 acres. We also oversee contracted wine grape growers throughout VA. When production dictates.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Oversee all vineyard functions which include but are not limited to pruning and canopy management, pest management, and harvest coordination.

• Act as operator for mechanized equipment when needed, including applying foliar sprayer.

• Monitor, manage, and continually improve all aspects of estate grape production to maximize quality and efficiency.

• Hire, mentor, discipline and supervise all farm employees.

• Coordinate all farm administrative functions, including management of pest management records, farm payroll, and regulatory compliance.

• Coordinate all farm equipment maintenance, repair, modification, and acquisition.

• Actively work with and advise senior leaders within the company to develop and execute high level plans.

• Act as the liaison between the winery and contracted growers and cultivate grower relationships by visiting all vineyards on a regular basis.

• Help direct harvest logistics in collaboration with winemaking team to increase wine quality and process efficiency.

• Responsible for the care and management of the entire estate including all farm infrastructure.

• Ensure the vineyard properties are always prepared for guests, including special setup for events.

• Conduct a select number of in-depth vineyard tours.

Position Requirements

● Bachelor’s degree in viticulture, horticulture, or related program and/or certificate of completion in a viticulture and/or related program or related experience is preferred.

● Functionally bilingual English/Spanish capability is strongly preferred.

● Minimum three years’ experience in vineyard management and/or grower relations.

● Must have a daily presence in the field and be a hands-on manager.

● Flexible and creative with uncompromising personal ethics.

● Strong interpersonal skills with demonstrated results leading staff, servicing vineyard contracts, and participating on leadership teams.

● Capable of working independently, using good judgment, and solving problems creatively. Know when to discuss situations with management team, bringing proposed solutions.

● Strong analytical skillset, with mechanical aptitude, and problem-solving skills.

● Proficient in appropriate technology, including the ability to communicate, coordinate, and store documents electronically.

● Able to walk in steep, inclining vineyard, in diverse types of weather.

● Able to lift and move up to 50 pounds.

● Currently possess or can immediately obtain a Virginia Private Pesticide Applicators License.

● Have a good driving record, a valid driver’s license, auto insurance and the ability to drive to locations around Virginia

● Able to work a flexible schedule including evenings, weekends.

Our compensation is competitive and based on skills and experience. As a full-time employee you will receive the standard Winery at Bull Run benefits package including health insurance, paid time off, IRA program, etc.

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