Vineyard & Grounds Manager (Wine Jobs: Vineyards & Cellars )

  Omata Estate Vineyard

  Russell, Auckland/Northland

Omata Estate Vineyard is a small family run business looking for a new Vineyard & Grounds Manager to help produce wine in a beautiful part of the country.

As part of a 24ha coastal property, with 3ha in grapes, Omata is a multi-faceted operation that alongside the wine business includes a restaurant, cellar door and glamping accommodation. From time to time, all staff are required to help in other parts of the business.

You'll be working closely with the Owners, the Operations Manager and Contract Winemakers. 

Key Responsibilities:

• The Vineyard & Grounds Manager will be responsible for all aspects of vineyard operations and the overall grounds. This role involves both hands-on vineyard work, supervisory responsibilities and machinery operations.
• Develop and execute vineyard management plans, including pruning, canopy management, spraying and harvesting
• Perform daily vineyard operations, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and to a high standard
• Operate and maintain vineyard machinery, including tractors, sprayers and other specialised equipment
• Lead, train and oversee staff in seasonal vineyard work such as pruning, canopy management, shoot thinning, plucking, wire lifting and harvesting
• Monitor vine health and pest management, ensuring compliance with Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand (SWNZ) standards
• Maintain accurate records of vineyard activities and report to owners
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives to enhance vineyard productivity and sustainability
• New vineyard development – planting, trellis work, training etc.
• Perform general vineyard maintenance – clips, wires, posts etc.
• Utilise our experienced product consultants, to identify, monitor and treat common vineyard pests and diseases
• Tractor operation e.g. spraying, mowing, trimming
• Help when needed with general property repairs, building and infrastructure maintenance (direct help, or coordinate contractors)

What we’re looking for:

• We are looking for a reliable, self-starter. This position would suit someone with previous experience involving viticulture or agriculture operations. The right applicant could have experience in fencing, cropping, forestry, farming or horticulture etc.
• The ideal person is physically fit to perform tasks, enjoys working solo or with others and values working within a small, fun team. Previous vineyard work is not essential if you are a mechanical, practical person with an agricultural background.

Other helpful attributes:

• At least 3 years of experience in vineyard operations or a related horticultural or agricultural field
• Experience with vineyard machinery and equipment operation
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Familiarity with SWNZ practices is an advantage
• Full driver’s license and Growsafe/Approved Handler certification (or willingness to obtain
• Physically fit and able to work in varying weather conditions
• If you’re a motivated, outdoor loving individual, with a deep commitment to quality in a unique wine environment, we’d love to hear from you.  

What we offer:

• Competitive salary and benefits package 
• The equipment and resources needed to achieve success
• Opportunity to live and work in New Zealand’s most beautiful region
• The right applicant could have accommodation provided
• A vehicle is provided for work use
• Remuneration will be based on experience