Viticulturist (Wine Jobs: Vineyards & Cellars )

  Frind Winery Ltd. (http://www.frindwinery.com)

  West Kelowna, British Columbia

About Frind Estate Winery

Established in 2017 with the purchase of the historic Bennett property in West Kelowna, Frind Estate Winery blends agriculture with technological opportunity. 

With over 400 acres planted  across 15 thriving vineyards spanning the Okanagan Valley, and another 250 acres to be planted, Frind Winery Ltd. has ambitious plans for future expansion, where our company stands at the forefront of viticultural innovation     

We are dedicated to crafting excellence in every vine, cultivating multiple distinct grape varieties including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Syrah across our varied locations.

Our commitment to excellence is supported by our state-of-the-art in-house lab, where advanced analysis, including soil and petiole analyses, help us optimize vineyard health and performance. Spanning diverse geographic locations from as far south as Osoyoos to as far north as Vernon, our vineyards offer unique opportunities to push the boundaries of modern viticulture.

We are seeking a driven and forward-thinking VITICULTURIST to join our growing team and lead our vision for vineyard quality, innovation, and technological advancement. Join us as we take our vineyards to new heights!

Our Viticulturist is responsible for championing the production of high-quality grapes and leading vineyard operations. They will work closely with the Winemakers, ensuring that the grapes are cultivated and harvested  to meet the winery's specific quality, quantity and flavor standards.

Key Responsibilities

Vineyard Planning and Establishment:

•  Adjusts vineyard husbandry according to site factors  including soil type, climate, and grape variety.

• Provides annual vineyard plans and crop estimates. 

• Plans and establishes new vineyards, including planting grapevines, trellising, and irrigation systems.

• Provides strategic planning input on overall BC grape supply (planting, lease, GSA).

• Provides leadership and project management for large scale replanting and virus management projects.

• Maintains positive grower relations. Ensures that growers meet all quality parameters.. Manages contracts accordingly in collaboration with the CFO and Chief Winemaker.

Grapevine Care:

• Monitors and executes canopy management activities, including pruning, training, and  shoot thinning.

• Implements pest and disease control measures to protect grapevines.

• Maintains soil health and fertility through soil analysis and appropriate treatments.

Harvest Planning:

• Collaborates with Winemakers on determining the optimal time for grape harvesting based on grape ripeness and intended wine profile. 

• Coordinates and oversees grape harvesting operations, including workforce planning and oversight 

Crop Yield Management:

• Manages crop yields by adjusting vineyard practices, such as thinning clusters or reducing vine vigor.

• Ensures that grape yields meet production goals without compromising grape quality.

Irrigation Management:

• Oversees and monitors  irrigation systems to ensure grapes receive the appropriate amount of water for quality goals and vine health.

• Adjusts irrigation schedules based on weather conditions and soil moisture levels.

Data Collection and Analysis:

• Analyzes and interprets  data collected on grapevine health, growth, and yield to make informed data-driven decisions about vineyard practices and improvements.

• Analyzes and interprets environmental data from weather stations and vineyard sensors for better decision-making regarding  planting decisions and grapevine management. 

Financial Management:

• Develops and manages department budget.

• Evaluates budget consistently throughout the year to ensure all department operations are within budget. Adjusts spending accordingly.

• Allocates resources efficiently, including labour, equipment, and materials.

Team Management:

• Develops and executes regular and seasonal workforce planning. 

• Collaborates with Human Resources on the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program

• Trains, oversees, motivates, mentors vineyard operations team.

Regulatory Compliance:

• Ensures compliance with environmental regulations, vineyard safety standards, and industry best practices.

• Ensures adherence to safe operating procedures and supports safety programs and policies to safeguard personal safety, company property and team members safety.

Technology and Innovation:

• Identifies and implements new cutting edge technologies to optimize vineyard performance, address environmental challenges, and enhance grape quality.

• Stays updated on industry trends and innovations in viticulture.

• Utilizes existing equipment and technology to its fullest potential. Implements automation processes to maximize efficiencies when practical and feasible.

• Provides leadership and project management for large scale replanting and virus management projects.

Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Viticulture, Oenology, Horticulture, Agriculture, or a related field

• 5-10 years of vineyard experience in a viticulture management position.

• Experience managing and overseeing developing to mature vastly spread-out vineyard acreage is an asset. 

• Strong knowledge of grape varieties, soil science, vineyard management practices, and pest and disease control.

• Exceptional organizing, planning, financial management and budgeting, supervising, and problem-solving skills. 

• Advanced skills in MS Excel.

• Experience using viticulture and business software.

• Experience using vineyard management software

• Strong leadership, training, and decision-making skills with the ability to motivate and influence others.

• Strong multitasking and change management skills. 

• Excellent (English) verbal and written communication skills. Knowledge of Spanish is an asset.

• Experience operating applicable vineyard tools, irrigation systems, and related equipment.

• Ability to work in all weather conditions, including extreme temperatures.

• Valid Class 5 driver’s licence required for the purpose of regularly travelling between vineyard sites across the Okanagan between Osoyoos and Vernon.

• Available to work longer and varying hours, depending on seasonal vineyard requirements.

• Knowledge of relevant health and safety regulations and environmental stewardship principles.

• Ability to lift 50lbs+.

     

Why Work for Us?

• Join a team of dedicated individuals who are passionate about wine and committed to excellence in every aspect of our operations.

• We embrace innovation and creativity in everything we do, from winemaking techniques to customer experiences.

• Our commitment to excellence runs through everything we do, from vineyard management to customer service.

What we offer

The annual base salary range for this position is $125,000 - $140,000.

It is not typical for an individual to be hired at the top of the range for their role. Actual placement within range will be contingent upon several factors, including but not limited to the candidate’s qualifications, education, experience, internal equity, and alignment with market data.

     

Other benefits include:

• Comprehensive group health benefits

• Employee discount   

• Company provided vehicle for business use

• Immigration and/or relocation support may be possible 

 

---