Vineyard Assistant​/Irrigation Specialist

Description:

Under supervision of the Vineyard Manager, will assist in all vineyard farming activities including irrigation, frost protection, fertilization, weed control, disease and pest control applications, cultivation, canopy management and harvest. Must be familiar with or willing to learn cutting edge technology relating to many aspects of farming. Will also oversee vineyard development including vine removal, land preparation, trellis and irrigation system installation, and planting.

The right candidate must enjoy working outside in a job that encompasses all aspects of vineyard operations through the lifecycle of the vine; from spring pruning to fall harvesting while learning to utilize cutting edge technology such as Lumo, Vintrace, ESRI and other ag related computer applications. This is a hands‑on entry‑level position with opportunity for growth.

• Assists the Vineyard Manager with executing farming plan in accordance with production and winemaking guidance.
• Works with vineyard contractors as directed by vineyard manager. Provides performance feedback on contractors to manager as needed.
• Responsible for ensuring accurate and efficient irrigations are scheduled and applied remotely using Lumo technology. Will assist in upgrading existing irrigation systems using Lumo valves and technology. Must understand correct operation of irrigation and frost systems including pumps, Amiad Mini‑Sigma filters and control app, Lumo valves, gauges and pressure regulators. Repairs broken pipes, valves, drip hoses or faulty emitters. Reports any larger issues with the irrigation system to the vineyard manager.
• Able to perform Distribution Uniformity (DU) testing in each block.
• Maintains accurate weekly electronic records in ERSI of irrigations, fertilization, pond levels and frost water applied to all blocks.
• Monitors weather conditions and starts frost protection systems as necessary.
• Assist with pest control program. Ensure adequate materials are delivered on time to the correct storage locations as needed by the applicators. Ensure the necessary notifications of upcoming applications are made and appropriate records are kept at the application site.
• Complies with company policies and safety regulations. Cleans and maintains equipment in proper and safe working condition.
• May operate trucks, tractors, harvesters, and other heavy equipment as needed (skid steer, mini excavator, dump truck, front end loader, etc.).
• Takes on special projects as assigned by the Vineyard Manager.
• Additional duties as assigned.

• Degree in Viticulture or related field and/or equivalent combination of education and/or experience. 2-3 years related experience is required.
• Proficient in MS Office including, Outlook, Word, and Excel.
• Ability to work independently and make critical, sound, and timely decisions utilizing a high level of discretion.
• Strong problem‑solving, interpersonal, and analytical skills working with a diverse organization with employees of varying skillsets and backgrounds.
• Ability to manage workflow and a willingness to work within constantly changing priorities with enthusiasm.
• Must know how to safely set up and operate:

o Equipment:
Wheel Tractor, Quad, Pickup

o Implements:
Disc, Seeder, Mower, Sprayer

• Willing to learn how to operate a mechanical harvester.
• Clean DMV record, class A license a plus.
• Understanding and ability to follow all safety requirements.
• Ability to perform the physical labor necessary.
• Commitment to excellence and high standards.

Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to do the following:

• Walk, kneel, bend, and stand for extended periods of time, frequently on uneven or steep terrain.
• Must be able to lift 40 pounds and carry it 50‑60 feet repetitively throughout the day.
• Must be able to do repetitive hand squeezing with both hands.

• Work is mainly performed in a vineyard. The individual may come in contact with vines that have been treated with pesticides and fungicides as well as weeds that have been sprayed with herbicides in accordance with all local state and federal regulations.
• Noise levels can be moderate to loud.
• Exposed to outdoor elements; daytime temperatures can range from freezing to hot.
• Night and early morning work hours necessary during frost season and harvest with exposure to low temperatures and wind.
• Hazards:
  Occasionally works near moving machinery parts and is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions and toxic or caustic chemicals.

The above reflects management’s definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned.

Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.