Vineyard Landscaper at Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards
Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards embodies the essence of Southwest Virginia's wine country, blending scenic beauty with viticultural excellence. Since its establishment in 2013, our vineyard has flourished into a premier destination, celebrated for its award-winning wines and picturesque landscapes. Situated amidst rolling hills and fertile fields, our thirteen-acre vineyard cultivates a variety of grapes, including Viognier, Chardonnay, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Cab Franc. From nurturing the vines to crafting exceptional wines, Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards invites guests to savor the beauty and bounty of the Virginia countryside.
Job Description:
As a Vineyard Landscaper at Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards, you will play a crucial role in maintaining the natural beauty of our vineyard while also assisting in the cultivation and care of grapevines. With a minimum of 2 years of landscaping experience, you will work full-time to tend to the vineyard's outdoor spaces, ensuring they remain vibrant and conducive to grape production. This position offers a unique opportunity to work alongside winemaking professionals and contribute to the creation of exceptional wines.
Key Responsibilities:
- Perform regular landscaping tasks to maintain the appearance and functionality of the vineyard, including mowing, pruning, weeding, and mulching.
- Assist in the planting, trellising, and training of grapevines, following established vineyard management practices and protocols.
- Monitor vineyard health and growth, conducting visual inspections and reporting any signs of disease, pests, or other issues to the vineyard manager or viticulturist.
- Assist with irrigation system maintenance, including checking lines, adjusting sprinklers, and monitoring water levels to ensure proper hydration of grapevines.
- Participate in canopy management activities, such as shoot thinning, leaf pulling, and cluster positioning, to optimize grape ripening and flavor development.
- Assist in soil management tasks, including soil testing, fertilization, and compost application, to maintain optimal soil health and fertility.
- Operate and maintain landscaping equipment and machinery, ensuring they are clean, safe, and in good working condition.
- Collaborate with the vineyard team to plan and execute seasonal tasks and special projects, such as harvest preparation, vineyard expansion, and infrastructure improvements.
- Adhere to safety guidelines and procedures, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and following safety protocols when handling chemicals or operating equipment.
Requirements:
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in landscaping, grounds maintenance, or a related field, with a demonstrated ability to perform outdoor work efficiently and effectively.
- Knowledge of vineyard management principles and practices, including grapevine care, canopy management, and irrigation techniques, is preferred but not required.
- Physical stamina and endurance to perform repetitive tasks and work outdoors in various weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and sun.
- Attention to detail, organizational skills, and a willingness to learn and adapt to new tasks and responsibilities.
- Ability to work independently or as part of a team, following instructions and communicating effectively with colleagues and supervisors.
- Flexibility to work weekdays, weekends, and holidays as needed to accommodate seasonal fluctuations and vineyard operations.
Join us at Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards, where your passion for landscaping and viticulture will contribute to the beauty and success of our vineyard. Apply today and become part of a team dedicated to excellence in wine, hospitality, and agricultural stewardship!