Position Summary:
The Farm & Vineyard Manager will be responsible for the year-round management of a 100-acre farm operation, including 7,000+ avocado trees and 10 acres of premium wine grapes (Syrah, Malbec, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir). This role oversees all aspects of crop production—from seasonal maintenance through harvest—along with on-site wine processing and bottling. The manager will supervise a core team of 4–5 year-round employees, coordinate with 8–10 seasonal laborers as needed, and ensure the highest standards of productivity, quality, and sustainability. The manager will be a hands on leader and participant in all required operations of the ranch.
Key Responsibilities:
Avocado Grove Management
- Plan and execute deadwood removal, pruning schedules, and canopy management.
- Oversee fertilization programs and ensure accurate application timing and dosage.
- Monitor and adjust irrigation schedules for seasonal needs and drought management.
- Maintain irrigation systems, including pipe and valve repair/replacement.
- Coordinate pest and disease management programs with consultants (entomologists, soil scientists, etc.).
Vineyard Management
- Oversee seasonal vineyard tasks including pruning, trellis maintenance, shoot thinning, canopy management, and fruit thinning.
- Manage pest and disease prevention strategies primarily with spray applications
- Direct harvest operations for optimal fruit quality.
- Collaborate with winemaking staff and consultants on grape readiness and picking schedules.
Wine Processing & Bottling
- Coordinate with the winemaking team on processing, fermentation, and barrel programs.
- Ensure smooth scheduling and labor allocation for harvest and bottling runs.
- Oversee compliance with all wine production safety and quality standards.
Groundskeeping
- Lead team to maintain lawns and landscape appearance throughout the year, with emphasis on spring and summertime care.
- Fix or report structural issues around the property, i.e. plumbing, fences, etc.
- Ensure team cares for animals on site (dogs, cats, chickens, sheep)
Team Leadership & Labor Management
- Lead and supervise a core team of 4–5 full-time staff.
- Supervise 5–10 seasonal laborers for peak operations.
- Provide ongoing training in safety with chemical application and equipment operation, and crop-specific techniques.
- Create and enforce daily and weekly work plans.
Operational Management & Administration
- Track budgets for labor, materials, and maintenance.
- Maintain equipment and arrange for repairs as needed.
- Keep accurate records of pesticide, fertilizer, and water use for compliance.
- Report regularly to ownership on crop status, production metrics, and labor needs.
Qualifications:
- Minimum 5 years of experience in orchard or vineyard management, with strong preference for dual-crop experience.
- Proven experience supervising field crews and seasonal labor.
- Strong knowledge of irrigation systems, plant health, pest management, and soil health practices.
- Ability to operate and maintain farm equipment safely.
- Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Viticulture, Horticulture, or related field is a plus but equivalent experience considered.
- Strong organizational and communication skills.
- Knowledge of wine production processes a plus.
- Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to work outdoors year-round in varying weather conditions.
- Capable of lifting 50 lbs and performing manual labor as needed.
- Comfortable working extended hours during peak seasons.
Compensation & Benefits:
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Housing allowance or on-site housing option.
- Health insurance (vision and dental)
- Paid vacation and sick leave.
- Wine allocation and farm product benefits.
Overview
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Farm Manager to oversee the daily operations of our agricultural facility. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in farming and agriculture, with a focus on animal husbandry and crop management. This role requires effective leadership skills to supervise staff, manage resources, and ensure the overall productivity of the farm.
Duties
- Supervise farm staff and coordinate daily activities to ensure efficient operations.
- Manage animal care and husbandry practices, including feeding, health checks, and breeding programs.
- Oversee crop production, including planting, irrigation, maintenance, and harvesting.
- Maintain and repair farm machinery and equipment to ensure optimal performance.
- Utilize mechanical knowledge for troubleshooting and resolving equipment issues.
- Implement safety protocols for heavy equipment operation and maintenance tasks.
- Conduct regular inspections of facilities and grounds to maintain high standards of cleanliness and organization.
- Manage inventory of supplies, tools, and feed necessary for farm operations.
- Train staff on proper handling techniques for animals and equipment use.
- Maintain records related to farming activities, including crop yields, livestock health, and maintenance schedules.
Qualifications
- Proven experience in a supervisory role within an agricultural setting is essential.
- Strong mechanical knowledge with experience in equipment repair and maintenance.
- Familiarity with animal husbandry practices and animal care is required.
- Proficient in operating forklifts, heavy equipment, power tools, and hand tools safely.
- Experience with horticulture or greenhouse management is a plus.
- Ability to perform heavy lifting as needed during daily operations.
- Basic math skills for managing budgets and inventory records are necessary.
- Knowledge of irrigation systems and their maintenance is preferred.
- Equine experience is advantageous for managing horse-related activities on the farm.
- A passion for agriculture and commitment to sustainable farming practices is highly valued. Join us in cultivating a thriving agricultural environment where your expertise can make a significant impact!
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $64,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Relocation assistance
- Vision insurance
Ability to Commute:
- Temecula, CA 92590 (Preferred)
Ability to Relocate:
- Temecula, CA 92590: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)
Work Location: In person