Vineyard Operations Manager and Grower Relations

Description:

Willamette Valley Vineyards is looking for a Vineyards Operations Manager to oversee our vineyards, and lead development projects within the company.

Founded in 1983 by Oregon native Jim Bernau, Willamette Valley Vineyards is one of Oregon’s most respected and enduring wine producers with an emphasis on Pinot Noir and other cool-climate wines. Over the decades, Jim’s vision has grown into a well-established enterprise with over 500 acres under vine, and annual production of multiple brands, including the flagship Willamette Valley Vineyards label. Willamette Valley Vineyards holds a leadership position in Oregon winemaking in the Willamette Valley, Oregon’s premier wine region.

By dedicating itself to producing premium and ultra-premium wines, Willamette Valley Vineyards has built a reputation for consistent quality, craftsmanship, and respect for the valley’s unique soils and climate. Among the winery’s unique distinctions is that it's owned by more than 20,000 wine enthusiasts (NASDAQ: WVVI & WVVIP). Jim’s vision of building a world-class Oregon winery with shareholder support has expanded to include sparkling winery Domaine Willamette in the Dundee Hills and four wine-focused restaurants across Oregon and Washington. This blend of commercial success, community roots, and commitment to sustainable, high-quality viticulture has helped make Willamette Valley Vineyards a cornerstone of Oregon’s wine industry and a benchmark for excellence in the region.

Primary Job Responsibilities/Essential Functions

• Operations Management: Use vineyard management software (AgCode, Excel) to track vineyard activities, manage labor and equipment, and oversee vineyard budget. Ensure equipment performance, safety, and contractor management.
• Viticulture and Crop Management: Develop and oversee all vineyard operations across over 500+ estate acres. Maintain accurate recordkeeping; spray programs; canopy management; pest and disease monitoring; safety and compliance programs. Provide crop estimates and thinning recommendations, harvest planning, picking decision recommendations, and fruit delivery. Collaboratively develop and monitor annual farming plans that are consistent with the winery's quality standards.
• Vineyard Development: Assist with new and existing vineyard development, including scouting properties, land acquisition, planning and design, land preparation, coordination of vineyard supplies, irrigation, and planting.
• Fiscal Management: Partner with the Vineyard and Winemaking team to create annual operating budgets and capital expenditure proposals.
• Farming Innovation: Increase farming efficiency through the integration of new technology and mechanization.
• Vineyard Certifications: Maintain records and submit reports in accordance with LIVE, Demeter, Salmon-Safe, and other regulatory programs.
• Team Leadership: Manage and mentor the vineyard team, providing guidance and growth opportunities within the company.
• Harvest Operations: Collaborate with the Winemaking team on all aspects of harvest, including maturity sampling, picking schedules, mechanical and hand-harvest coordination, and fruit transportation.
• Grower Relations: In coordination with the Director of Winemaking and Vineyards and senior executives, manages vineyard contracts and develops long-term vineyard partnerships to support sales demands.
• Sustainability: Supports the Company’s effort to foster a sustainable, cross-cultural, and environmentally responsible workplace.

NOTE: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other duties at the
discretion and as assigned by their supervisor and/or company leadership.

Requirements:

• Hands-on experience in Viticulture, Vineyard Operations Management and Development
• Knowledge of organic and biodynamic farming is preferred, and a PCA license must be obtained before the start date.
• Proficiency in industry-specific Spanish is preferred.
• Prior supervisory experience is preferred.
• A valid Oregon driver’s license.
• High level of computer literacy, and the ability to use AgCode and Microsoft Excel.
• Mechanical knowledge and general farm equipment operation experience.
• Must be available to work peak demand times, including harvest and extended hours when needed.
• Must have strong verbal and written communication skills, and be able to provide solutions to problems, and navigate if there is a problem.
• Strong organizational skills – demonstrate a continuous learning and improvement mindset as a forward thinker.
• Must have a positive attitude, strong work ethic, excellent communication and time management skills, and the ability to work independently.