Vineyard Operator

We’re looking for a skilled Vineyard Operator to join the team at our Central Otago vineyards. This opportunity will allow you to be part of a sophisticated brand and work outdoors in a friendly work environment. As part of the team, you’ll develop your skills further with good training and task diversity and uphold our culture of quality and safety.

As a Vineyard Operator, you are in a key role responsible for implementing day-to-day vineyard activities, including both machinery and “hands-on” viticulture operations. You will work under the direction of the Vineyard Manager (VM) and will be supervised on a daily basis by the Assistant Vineyard Manager (AVM). You will interact with a wide range of people, and maintaining good working relationships and lines of communication with staff in other parts of the company and visitors is critical.

Your day-to-day will include:

• Tractor operations such as vine and weed spraying, sweeping, canopy trimming, leaf plucking, mowing, mulching, cultivating, gondola driving
• Canopy management, pruning and vine training
• Irrigation management; service and maintenance of system
• Accountability to follow best practices procedures of vineyard operations, process and systems
• Supervision of contract vineyard labour and company casual vineyard staff when required
• Contributing to the quality and safety culture of Cloudy Bay

• Experience in a vineyard or other operational agricultural enterprise
• A sound understanding of viticultural principles and practices
• Vigor in working a mechanical and groundwork based role
• Flexibility, sound communication skills, a willingness to learn and be part of a strong and cohesive team
• Strong knowledge of safety conduct and procedures
• Class 1 valid driver’s license
• Desirable: Class 2, 4, W, F license, Growsafe, Approved Handler certification

• 9% superannuation
• Annual bonus target
• Health insurance
• Annual wine allocation
• Generous wine, food and merchandise discount at our cellar door and restaurant
• A positive and supportive team culture
• Focus on employee inclusion, wellbeing, and health & safety
• Forward-thinking structured professional environment
• Staff events and team experiences