Seasonal Viticulture Technician
Newton Vineyard, United States

Research and technical experiments for NWT estate vineyards (10%)

• Oversee vineyard experiments, design new investigations, collect pertinent data, (relative to vineyard mapping involving but not limited to EVI (Enhanced Vegetative Index), irrigation and weed control technologies for NWT estate vineyards) and propose action plan when needed.
• Focus on developing a water stress index, to maximize quality and water usage.
• Cooperate with educational and industry professionals on research projects and participate in industry work groups and committees.
• Research and stay abreast of new technology innovation relative to vineyard renovation, proposing and implementing, in order to ensure best practice for optimal quality.
• Research amp; Technical experimentation in close collaboration with the DCC winegrowing team on DCC vineyard blocks intended for Newton products
• Partner with DCC Viticulturist amp; viticultural management companies on executing vineyard management plans for all DCC estate vineyard blocks with intended use to NWT Winery programs and propose action when needed
• Assist NWT Head of Viticulture on planning and implementation for NWT vineyard estate projects (vineyard redevelopment/vineyard operations)
• As relevant assume lead role and partner with DCC Viticulturist on developing/planning vineyard redevelopment plans with emphasis on soil analysis, irrigation planning, rootstock and clonal recommendations on NWT estate vineyards.
• Partner with Head of Viticulture with oversight of NWT estate landscaping and gardening team.
• Work to execute the operations budget for Newton Vineyards
• Assist with invoicing and PO creation administration
• Manage the fruit intake for Newton,
• Monitor pests and diseases problems in NWT estate vineyards and recommend integrated pest management strategies when action is needed
• Maintain grape maturity assessment program in NWT estate vineyards

Development amp; consolidation of outstanding internal/external working relationships for NWT estate vineyards development (30%)

Oversee of NWT estate vineyards technical operations (25%)

• Coordinate and report on pest and disease related problems, including Powdery Mildew, Pierce’s Disease, Vine Mealy bug, European Grape Moth, Light Brown Apple Moth and recommend bio amp; chemical control.
• Collect amp; review pesticide use reports prior to harvest Coordinate amp; manage the collection of estate vineyard data including pruning weights, crop weights, tissue and soil sampling, phenology, cultural practices, for NWT estate vineyards
• Coordinate annual technical vineyard mapping
• Provide timely phenology, Bud break, post-Set crop estimates to the NWT Head of Viticulture
• Coordinate irrigation programs for vineyard operations, including scheduling, water status monitoring, and weather data
• Manage the Newton vineyards, grounds and winery water supply.
• Keep monthly traceability and records of all water usage by vineyard/landscaping. This includes water well, ponds and flowmeter monthly readings and data records.
• Ensure environmental compliance and certifications, including Environmental, Safety compliance for Newton Vineyards and Grounds
• Technical operations in close collaboration with the Newton Winemaking Team

Grower Relations (35%)

• Work with growers for to ensure they are meeting winemaking grower quality standards
• Provide accurate tonnage estimates on all grower blocks
• Act as a positive representative for Newton Products and Winery
• Focus on intake for Skyside and Smoketree
• Assist with Grower Contract Administration

Proactive amp; Agile

Requirements

Professional experience amp; know how:

• General viticulture experience.
• Understanding of a high end, luxury amp; quality winegrowing.
• Experience and knowledge with Napa Valley hillside terroir required.
• Experience with sustainable farming practices
• Knowledge of organic farming practices
• Knowledge/experience with Pest identification/monitoring, Irrigation Water Management and Vine Nutrition required.
• Computer skills including database management, spreadsheets, word processing, Arch View Mapping and Internet necessary
• Microsoft Office Suite amp; SAP
• Experience and strong grower network of Northern California Growers
• Good organizational skills
• Strong Computer Skills Excel and word.
• Effective communication skills. resulting in achieved objectives amp; enhanced relationships with others

Technical amp; management skills:

• PCA licenses.
• Valid CA drivers

Job Rewards and Benefits