Role Overview
The Senior Vineyard Operator plays a hands-on role in contributing to the daily management and execution of vineyard operations. Working closely with the viticulturist and the owner, as a senior member of the vineyard team, to promote the health, productivity, and ongoing development of the vineyard. This includes operating machinery, implementing canopy and pest management, and participating in seasonal tasks such as pruning and harvest.
This is an opportunity for someone with practical viticulture experience who is passionate about quality wine production. Candidates with winemaking knowledge or a willingness to learn are also encouraged to apply.
Job Requirements
Key Responsibilities
- Execute daily vineyard operations to meet quality targets.
- Operate machinery, including under-vine cultivation equipment and tractors.
- Implement integrated pest and disease management programs.
- Support irrigation scheduling and undertake system maintenance as directed.
- Perform routine equipment maintenance and vineyard infrastructure repairs.
- Participate in pruning, canopy management, and trellis maintenance, supervising less experienced staff.
- Participate in harvest activities, including logistics coordination and hand-picking.
- Maintain accurate records of spray applications, pruning, and harvest activities.
- Monitor vineyard health and report findings or concerns to the viticulturist and owner.
- Uphold and promote workplace health and safety policies at all times.
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Qualifications & Skills
Essential:
- Demonstrated experience in vineyard operations, including machinery use.
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and organisational skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a small, committed team.
- High attention to detail, with a proactive and solution-focused approach.
- Physically capable of outdoor manual work in varying weather conditions.
- Current driver's licence and legal right to work in Australia.
Desirable:
- Formal qualifications in viticulture or a related field, or multiple vintages of hands-on experience.
- Forklift licence.
- Farm Chemical Users Certificate.
o Pruning (spur and cane; Simonit & Sirch method desirable)
o Canopy and crop management
o Tractors and machinery for chemical and fertiliser application
o Mowing and slashing
o Bird control and harvest logistics
Working Conditions
- Minimum of 38–40 hours per week.
- Flexibility required during critical periods (e.g. harvest, spraying), including occasional weekend and extended hours.
Remuneration
- Salary will be commensurate with experience and skill level, and above the relevant Award.
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How to Apply
Interested applicants are encouraged to submit a CV and cover letter outlining relevant experience and motivation for applying.
Suitable candidates may be interviewed prior to closing date.
Ideal commencement date 17th August 2026.
