Position: Vineyard Foreman
Location: Verde Valley, AZ (Cornville, Cottonwood, Clarkdale)
Job Description:
- Lead and supervise vineyard crews across daily cultural practices for the full growing cycle, including pruning, tying, suckering/shoot thinning, leaf and fruit thinning, canopy management, and hand harvest.
- Plan, assign, and follow up on daily work so crews meet quality and timing standards set by the Vineyard Manager.
- Train crew members on proper technique, safety, and quality expectations; reinforce consistent workmanship across blocks and sites.
- Coordinate closely with the Vineyard Manager on priorities, labor needs, and progress across multiple vineyard sites.
- Inspect equipment and field conditions daily; report maintenance, repair, and safety issues promptly.
- Support pest and disease scouting, fertilizer and spray programs, irrigation checks, and basic record-keeping as directed.
- Assist with trellis, irrigation, and drainage installation or repair as needed.
- Operate vineyard equipment when required (tractors, ATVs/utility vehicles, and related implements) and model safe operating procedures.
- Maintain a safe work environment; support company safety programs and protect people, property, and the environment.
- Work as a team with co-workers in a manner consistent with the company’s value of exhibiting the highest quality standards in all endeavors.
- Any other duties as reasonably required.
Salary: $48,000–$55,000 DOE
Minimum Qualifications:
- Proven vineyard, farm, or orchard experience, with wine grape viticulture preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to lead a crew, give clear instructions, and hold a high work standard.
- Knowledge of canopy management, pruning, and seasonal vineyard practices.
- Valid driver’s license.
- Bilingual English/Spanish required; must communicate effectively with crew members and management in both languages.
- Willing to work irregular shifts and long hours, particularly during harvest, including weekends and holidays as needed.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while collaborating effectively with a team.
- Two or more years of vineyard supervisory or foreman experience.
- Experience operating tractors and other vineyard machinery.
- Familiarity with irrigation systems and basic vineyard equipment maintenance.
- Works outdoors in hot and cold climates and on wet surfaces.
- Exposed to loud noise, fumes, and/or chemicals; works near moving mechanical parts.
- Must be able to lift 55 lbs. frequently.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Must be able to sit and/or stand for long periods of time.
MERKIN VINEYARDS/BIG EMPTY SPACE is an EEO/AA/Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran employer.
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