Vineyard Manager

Job Description:

Title: Vineyard Manager

Location: Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery, Ronda, North Carolina

Reports To: Owner

Employment Type: Full-Time, Exempt

Position Summary

Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery seeks a hands-on, experienced Vineyard Manager to lead all vineyard operations for our estate winery producing ~6,000 cases of premium wine annually. The ideal candidate is a skilled and experienced viticulturist with strong leadership abilities and a commitment to quality farming and forward-thinking practices.

Key Responsibilities

Viticulture & Farming

- Oversee all vineyard activities: pruning, canopy management, irrigation, pest/disease control, and harvest. - Develop and execute annual vineyard plans in tandem with ownership and winemaking team. - Monitor vine health, soil conditions, and weather to optimize fruit quality and yield. - Implement sustainable and regenerative farming practices where possible. - Work closely with owner and winemaking team to align practices with long-term viticultural goals.

- Must have a daily presence in the field and be a hands-on manager.

Harvest & Production Coordination

- Manage harvest logistics with the winemaking team. - Align vineyard operations with wine style goals through collaboration with winemaking team.

Pest, Disease & Fertility Management
- Develop and manage pest/disease control and fertilization programs. - Maintain inventory and safety records (MSDS) for chemicals. - Track pesticide applications and ensure regulatory compliance. - Train staff on viticulture best practices and conduct regular vineyard scouting.

Workforce Management

- Lead and schedule full time staff and seasonal crews. - Provide training, supervision, and performance feedback. - Maintain accurate labor records and collaborate with HR/legal team.

- Safety and Compliance: ensure a safe working environment and enforce company policies and regulations.

Operations & Administration

- Manage vineyard budgets, equipment maintenance, and supply procurement. - Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, inputs, and yields. - Collaborate with Owner on budgeting, planting schedules, and data tracking. - Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and agricultural regulations.

- Financial and Strategic Planning: Monitor budgetary goals, forecast operations, and work with Owner on expansion and strategic decisions.

Qualifications

- 5+ years of vineyard management experience, preferably in premium winegrowing region. East Coast vineyard management experience a plus. – Experience managing full time staff and/or seasonal agricultural labor. - Strong knowledge of viticulture, equipment, and pest/disease management. - Flexible schedule during peak seasons, including weekends. - Excellent communication and leadership skills. - Proficiency in vineyard software and MS Office. - Ability to lift 55 lbs and work in varied terrain and weather. - Bilingual (English/Spanish) and a BS in Viticulture a plus. - Valid driver’s license and ability to operate vineyard machinery.

- Currently possess or can obtain a North Carolina Private Pesticide Applicators License.

Compensation & Benefits

- Competitive salary based on experience - health benefits, 401k, PTO and performance bonus

- Professional development opportunities

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