Vineyard Manager II; Manager II

Overview

Utah State University Extension invites applications for a Vineyard Manager. This is a full‑time, benefited position based at Dammeron Valley Vineyards, LLC (DVV) in Dammeron Valley, Washington County, Utah. The position reports to the Director of the Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources Department and receives instruction from the owner of DVV. It will plan, direct, and oversee the operations and budget of the DVV, which will become a part of a new USU Extension unit.

The role will oversee and supervise a team of employees across vineyard operations and financial management. The valley is located 17 miles north of St. George, off State Route 18, at an elevation of 4,700 ft., on a 20‑acre property with 9½ acres currently in production and room for future expansion. The soil consists of sandy loam with about 30% clay and volcanic particulate;

water is supplied by the Dammeron Valley Water Works to a drip irrigation system. There are currently 13 varietals, all wine grapes (Vitus vinifera), predominantly trellised with VSP; a second winery, Bold and Delaney, occupies part of the property and is the exclusive purchaser of grapes. The position combines agricultural expertise, leadership skills, and a deep understanding of viticulture to manage day‑to‑day activities and ensure long‑term sustainability and profitability.

• Plan, organize, and supervise planting, pruning, irrigation, fertilization, pest and disease control, and harvesting.
• Monitor grapevine health and development to ensure optimal growing conditions.
• Implement and manage irrigation schedules and water conservation strategies.
• Manage the day‑to‑day operations of the vineyard.
• Plan and execute special events and supervise construction projects as needed.
• Recruit, train, and supervise additional vineyard staff and seasonal workers.
• Coordinate team schedules to meet operational demands during critical periods such as harvest.
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal health, safety, and employment laws and regulations.
• Participate on committees as requested.
• Conduct regular inspections to ensure grape quality meets winery or market standards.
• Collaborate with winemakers or clients to align vineyard practices with desired grape characteristics.
• Develop and maintain policies and procedures related to USU and vineyard operations.
• Order inventory and supplies; develop and maintain inventory management controls.
• Coordinate with third‑party vendors.
• Oversee maintenance and repair of vineyard equipment and infrastructure.
• Ensure safe operation and reliability of equipment and machinery and adherence to workplace safety regulations.
• Supervise maintenance of buildings, organize daily schedules, and inspect and monitor work areas.
• Manage budgets and cost‑effective purchasing of supplies and equipment.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, including yields, labor, and inputs.
• Develop annual budget, including capital expenditures, review expenditures, approve purchases, and determine labor budget.
• Implement sustainable farming practices to promote environmental health.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal agricultural regulations.
• Work primarily outdoors, often in varying weather conditions; seasonal workloads may require long hours during peak periods such as harvest season.
• Pursue expanded use of the property for additional programs and services to the local community.
• Work on grants and controlled viticulture field studies, allocation of surplus equipment and supplies, and educational leases for viticulture equipment.

• Bachelor’s degree in viticulture, horticulture, agriculture, or a related field.
• Proven experience in vineyard management or a related agricultural field.
• Familiarity with vineyard equipment and maintenance.
• Strong knowledge of viticulture practices, pest management, and soil health.

• Three or more years of experience.
• Experience with land‑grant universities and Extension services.
• Previous management experience.

• Leadership and organizational skills to manage teams and coordinate complex operations.
• Excellent…