Viticulture Technician
(Wine Jobs:
Vineyards & Cellars )
Full Time
Blue Grouse Estate Winery
Duncan,
British Columbia
Position Overview:
We are seeking a Viticulture Technician to join our growing team in a full-time, permanent position. We farm on the geographical edge of high quality vinifera viticulture and pride ourselves in pushing the boundaries of what is commonly accepted as possible. The successful candidate will join an incredibly passionate team and have the opportunity to immerse themselves in and learn about agroecology, regenerative agriculture, systems thinking, high quality compost production, livestock integration and a strong focus on soil biology and plant performance – an agricultural approach we have dubbed Radical Biological Agriculture.
About Us:
Blue Grouse is dedicated to producing premium, sustainably grown wines in the heart of Vancouver Island’s Cowichan Valley. We currently farm 60 acres of grapevines across multiple properties in the Cowichan Station area. Blue Grouse is proudly Biosphere certified.
Key Responsibilities:
- Safely operate vineyard machinery
- Perform routine maintenance and repairs on equipment
- Assist with vineyard tasks like mowing, spraying, deleafing, hedging, and harvest
- Operate, maintain, and repair irrigation systems as needed
- Work collaboratively with the vineyard team
Qualifications:
- Proven experience operating agricultural machinery
- Keen interest in agroecology and regenerative agriculture systems
- Formal viticulture and/or oenology education is a plus
- Valid Pesticide Applicator License or Assistant Pesticide Applicator License is a plus
- Familiarity with BC’s Occupational Health and Safety regulations
- Physical fitness and stamina to perform tasks that may require lifting, bending, and prolonged periods of outdoor work in all types of weather
- Strong teamwork and communication skills (written and spoken English; Spanish is a plus)
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision as well as part of a team
- Strong attention to detail and ability to perform tasks accurately and efficiently
- Willingness to work flexible and overtime hours including weekends and holidays during peak seasons such as planting and harvest
- Valid driver's license (Class 5; heavy endorsement and experience with large trailers are a plus) with a clean driving record and own transportation
Compensation & Benefits:
- Full-time, permanent position
- Salary ranging from $50,000-$60,000, depending on experience and qualifications
- Benefits package including extended health, dental, and RRSP matching
- Opportunity for professional development and training
- Employee discounts
Application Process:
Please submit your resume and cover letter ("Why do you want this job?") to stacy(at)bluegrouse.ca. Applicants must hold the right to legally work in Canada or be able to acquire it. Please understand that only applicants selected for interviews will be contacted.
Equal Opportunity:
Blue Grouse Estate Winery is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates, including women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and members of visible minorities.
