Job Description

Vineyard Manager

Utah State University Extension invites applications for a Vineyard Manager. This is a full time, benefited position. This Extension position includes vineyard management responsibilities and is based at Dammeron Valley Vineyards, LLC (DVV) in Dammeron Valley, Washington County, Utah. This position will report to the Director of the Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources Department as well as receive instruction from the owner of DVV. This position in partnership with DVV ownership would plan, direct, and oversee the operations and budget of the DVV, which will become a part of a new Utah State University Extension unit. This position in partnership with DVV owners would oversee and supervise a team of employees with various skills related to vineyard operations and financial management.

Washington County, Utah, located in the southwestern corner of the state, is known for its stunning natural landscapes, warm climate, and vibrant communities. The county is home to St. George, its largest city and economic hub, as well as several charming towns and rural areas. Renowned for its proximity to Zion National Park, Snow Canyon State Park, and other outdoor attractions, Washington County draws visitors from around the world for hiking, rock climbing, and other recreational activities. The area is part of the Mojave Desert, featuring red rock formations, canyons, and unique desert flora. With a growing population, a thriving tourism industry, and a mix of cultural and historical sites, Washington County blends natural beauty with modern amenities, making it a popular destination for residents and travelers alike. DVV is 17 miles north of St. George off State Route 18 at an elevation of 4,700 ft. and is just under 20 acres. The soil has quintenary sediment as its parent material and consists of sandy loam with about 30% clay mixed with volcanic particulate.

Water is supplied by the Dammeron Valley Water Works which feeds the vineyard's drip irrigation infrastructure to water and fertigate the vines. Currently there are approximately 9 acres with room for future expansion. There are 13 varietals currently planted with an additional two planned for this spring. The vines are all wine grapes (Vitus vinifera) a mix of reds and whites. The majority are trellised using a VSP (Vertical Shoot Positioning) with some use of cane pruning and head training. Bold and Delaney Winery, a separate legal entity, is also on the property and is currently the exclusive purchaser of grapes from the vineyard. This position requires working with the DVV Managing Member in learning and overseeing all aspects of vineyard operations to ensure optimal grape production and vineyard health. This role combines agricultural expertise, leadership skills, and a deep understanding of viticulture to manage the day-to-day activities of the vineyard while achieving long-term sustainability and profitability. We welcome candidates with diverse interests and experience related to these areas.

Responsibilities

Vineyard Operations Management:

• Plan, organize, and supervise planting, pruning, irrigation, fertilization, pest and disease control, and harvesting.
• Monitor grapevine health and development, ensuring optimal growing conditions.
• Implement and manage irrigation schedules and water conservation strategies.
• Manages the day-to-day operations of the vineyard.
• May plan and execute special events.
• May supervise construction projects as needed.

Team Leadership:

• Work with current vineyard staff and work with current DVV owner to recruit, train, and supervise additional vineyard staff and seasonal workers.
• Coordinate team schedules to meet operational demands during critical periods such as harvest.
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal health, safety, and employment laws and regulations.
• Participates on committees as requested.

Quality Control:

• Conduct regular inspections to ensure grape quality meets the winery or market standards.
• Collaborate with winemakers or clients to align vineyard practices with desired grape characteristics.
• Develop and maintain policies and procedures as related to USU and vineyard operations.
• Order inventory and supplies; develops and maintains inventory management controls.
• Coordinates with third party vendors.

Equipment and Maintenance:

• Oversee the maintenance and repair of vineyard equipment and infrastructure.
• Ensure safe operation and reliability of equipment and machinery and adherence to workplace safety regulations.
• Supervise the maintenance of buildings, organizing daily schedules, and inspecting and monitoring work areas.

Budget and Record Keeping:

• Manage budgets and cost-effective purchasing of supplies and equipment.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, including yields, labor, and inputs.
• Develop annual budget to include capital expenditures.
• Reviews expenditures, approves purchases, and determines labor budget.

Sustainability and Compliance:

• Implement sustainable farming practices to promote environmental health.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal agricultural regulations.

Working Conditions:

• Primarily outdoor work, often in varying weather conditions.
• Seasonal workloads that may require long hours during peak periods such as harvest season.
• Physical activity, including walking, lifting, and operating machinery.

Coordination with USU Extension:

• Expanded use of the property for additional programs and services that can be provided to the local community.
• Work on grants and controlled viticulture field studies
• Work on the allocation of surplus equipment and supplies for use in the vineyard
• Work with vendors on educational leases for testing of viticulture specific equipment focused primarily on floor management.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in viticulture, horticulture, agriculture, or related field.
• Proven experience in vineyard management or related agricultural field.
• Familiarity with vineyard equipment and maintenance.
• Strong knowledge of viticulture practices, pest management, and soil health.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Three or more years experience.
• Experience with land grant universities and Extension services.
• Previous management experience.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Leadership and organizational skills to manage teams and coordinate complex operations.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and adaptability to changing conditions.
• Ability to develop and maintain recordkeeping systems and procedures.
• Skilled in the use of computers and software applications.
• Skilled in developing and implementing new and innovative strategies and procedures.
• Ability to analyze and interpret financial data and prepare reports, statements, and/or projections.
• Ability to follow and enforce safety procedures.
• Ability to train and supervise employees.
• Ability to monitor and/or maintain quality control standards.
• Excellent people skills.
• Excellent written and verbal skills.
• Experience working with the public.
• Experience working with elected officials.
• Experience managing volunteers.

Required Documents

Along with the online application, please attach:

• Resume/CV to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under "Resume/CV"
• Name and contact information for 3 professional references to be entered into Candidate Profile
• Cover letter to be typed/pasted at the end of your application

**Document size may not exceed 10 MB.**

Advertised Salary

Commensurate with experience, plus excellent benefits

ADA

Employees work indoors and are protected from weather and/or contaminants, but not, necessarily, occasional temperature changes. The employee is regularly required to sit and often uses repetitive hand motions.

College/Department Highlights

Utah State University ( is Utah's Land-Grant Institution with an approximate enrollment of

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