Viticulturist

About Frind Estate Winery

Established in 2017 with the purchase of the historic Bennett property in West Kelowna, Frind Estate Winery blends agriculture with technological opportunity.

With over 400 acres planted across 15 thriving vineyards spanning the Okanagan Valley, and another 250 acres to be planted, Frind Winery Ltd. has ambitious plans for future expansion, where our company stands at the forefront of viticultural innovation.

We are dedicated to crafting excellence in every vine, cultivating multiple distinct grape varieties including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Syrah across our varied locations.

Our commitment to excellence is supported by our state-of-the-art in-house lab, where advanced analysis, including soil and petiole analyses, help us optimize vineyard health and performance. Spanning diverse geographic locations from as far south as Osoyoos to as far north as Vernon, our vineyards offer unique opportunities to push the boundaries of modern viticulture.

We are seeking a driven and forward-thinking VITICULTURIST to join our growing team and lead our vision for vineyard quality, innovation, and technological advancement. Join us as we take our vineyards to new heights!

Our Viticulturist is responsible for championing the production of high-quality grapes and leading vineyard operations. They will work closely with the Winemakers, ensuring that the grapes are cultivated and harvested to meet the winery's specific quality, quantity and flavor standards.

Key Responsibilities

Vineyard Planning and Establishment:

● Adjusts vineyard husbandry according to site factors including soil type, climate, and grape variety.

● Provides annual vineyard plans and crop estimates.

● Plans and establishes new vineyards, including planting grapevines, trellising, and irrigation systems.

● Provides strategic planning input on overall BC grape supply (planting, lease, GSA).

● Provides leadership and project management for large scale replanting and virus management projects.

● Maintains positive grower relations. Ensures that growers meet all quality parameters. Manages contracts accordingly in collaboration with the CFO and Chief Winemaker.

Grapevine Care:

● Monitors and executes canopy management activities, including pruning, training, and shoot thinning.

● Implements pest and disease control measures to protect grapevines.

● Maintains soil health and fertility through soil analysis and appropriate treatments.

Harvest Planning:

● Collaborates with Winemakers on determining the optimal time for grape harvesting based on grape ripeness and intended wine profile.

● Coordinates and oversees grape harvesting operations, including workforce planning and oversight

Crop Yield Management:

● Manages crop yields by adjusting vineyard practices, such as thinning clusters or reducing vine vigor.

● Ensures that grape yields meet production goals without compromising grape quality.

Irrigation Management:

● Oversees and monitors irrigation systems to ensure grapes receive the appropriate amount of water for quality goals and vine health.

● Adjusts irrigation schedules based on weather conditions and soil moisture levels.

Data Collection and Analysis:

● Analyzes and interprets data collected on grapevine health, growth, and yield to make informed data-driven decisions about vineyard practices and improvements.

● Analyzes and interprets environmental data from weather stations and vineyard sensors for better decision-making regarding planting decisions and grapevine management.

Financial Management:

● Develops and manages department budget.

● Evaluates budget consistently throughout the year to ensure all department operations are within budget. Adjusts spending accordingly.

● Allocates resources efficiently, including labour, equipment, and materials.

Team Management:

● Develops and executes regular and seasonal workforce planning.

● Collaborates with Human Resources on the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program

● Trains, oversees, motivates, mentors vineyard operations team.

Regulatory Compliance:

● Ensures compliance with environmental regulations, vineyard safety standards, and industry best practices.

● Ensures adherence to safe operating procedures and supports safety programs and policies to safeguard personal safety, company property and team members safety.

Technology and Innovation:

● Identifies and implements new cutting edge technologies to optimize vineyard performance, address environmental challenges, and enhance grape quality.

● Stays updated on industry trends and innovations in viticulture.

● Utilizes existing equipment and technology to its fullest potential. Implements automation processes to maximize efficiencies when practical and feasible.

● Provides leadership and project management for large scale replanting and virus management projects.

Skills and Qualifications

● Bachelor's degree in Viticulture, Oenology, Horticulture, Agriculture, or a related field

● 5-10 years of vineyard experience in a viticulture management position.

● Experience managing and overseeing developing to mature vastly spread-out vineyard acreage is an asset.

● Strong knowledge of grape varieties, soil science, vineyard management practices, and pest and disease control.

● Exceptional organizing, planning, financial management and budgeting, supervising, and problem-solving skills.

● Advanced skills in MS Excel.

● Experience using viticulture and business software.

● Experience using vineyard management software

● Strong leadership, training, and decision-making skills with the ability to motivate and influence others.

● Strong multitasking and change management skills.

● Excellent (English) verbal and written communication skills. Knowledge of Spanish is an asset.

● Experience operating applicable vineyard tools, irrigation systems, an.