Vineyard Estate Manager
(Wine Jobs:
Vineyards & Cellars )
Full Time
The Winery At Bull Run
Centreville,
Virginia
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.
