Submission #2123

Willamette Valley Vineyards Estate in the Salem Hills is looking for a Vineyards Operations Coordinator/Viticulture Technician to oversee the Vineyard operations and lead the development projects within the company. This positon is onsite, and requires good communication within a team setting, as well as previous knowledge of working in a vineyard.



Primary Job Responsibilities/Essential Functions:

-Collaboratively develops and monitors annual farming plans to produce the quality and quantity that are consistent with the goals of the winery.
-Planning and oversight for all the operations associated with managing premium wine grapes on multiple vineyards, including accurate record keeping, spray programs, canopy management, pest and disease monitoring, safety and compliance programs, crop estimates and thinning recommendations, harvest planning, picking decision recommendations and fruit delivery.
-Assist with new vineyard development including scouting of properties, land acquisition, planning and design, land prep, coordination of vine and supply orders, irrigation and planting.
-Work with the team on the creation of annual operating budgets and capital expenditure proposals.
-Project manages approved capex projects.
-Increase farming efficiency by integrating new technology and mechanization to controls cost when appropriate.
-Creates development programs to provide opportunities for top performers or high potential employees with internal promotions to support the winery’s growth.
-Manage equipment performance and safety.
-Keeps records and submits reports in accordance with LIVE and other regulations. Knowledge of organics and biodynamics is a plus.
-In coordination with the Director of Winemaking and Vineyards and CFO, coordinates vineyard contracts and develop long-term vineyard partners to support fruit plan.
-Oversight and management of contractors.
-Supports Company’s effort to create a more sustainable, cross-cultural and “green” environment.

Requirements
-Working toward competency in Viticulture, Vineyard and Production Operations.
-Minimum of several years of hands on experience in Viticulture, Vineyard/Operations Management and Development.
-Prior supervisory experience.
-PCA license preferred
-Proficiency in industry specific Spanish is a plus.
Valid OR driver’s license with a good record.
-High level of computer literacy, ability to use AgCode and Microsoft Excel.
-Creates development programs to provide opportunities for top performers or high potential employees with internal promotions to support the winery’s growth.
-Strong work ethic with excellent organizational and time management skills
-Mechanical knowledge and general farm equipment operation experience.
-Must be available to work peak demand times (including harvest) and extended hours when needed.
-Strong verbal and written communication skills – provides solutions to problems and how to pivot if there is a problem with the supply chain.
-Strong organization skills, the ability to demonstrate a continuous learning and improvement mindset, and being a forward thinker/problem solver.
-Ability to meet tight deadlines.