Gioia dell’Amore Cellars
Vineyard Manager Job Description
Overview
The Vineyard Manager is responsible for overseeing all vineyard farming operations across our eight-acre vineyard, as well as supporting landscaping and grounds care throughout the 96-estate property.
Gioia dell’Amore Cellars is a small estate winery located in western Rockingham County in central North Carolina, in the town of Mayodan. Our property features eight acres of vines planted across eight grape varietals, along with a tasting room, event venues, and on-site rental cabins. This role is ideal for a hands-on professional who takes pride in vineyard health, estate presentation, and collaboration.
Duties and Responsibilities
Vineyard Operations
· Oversee all vineyard functions, including but not limited to:
o Seasonal vineyard activities such as pruning, shoot thinning, canopy management, and vine training
o Pest management and disease prevention strategies
o Installation, management, and removal of netting and other pest deterrents (kites, cannons, etc.)
o Preparation for and coordination of harvest activities
o Monitoring vine and grape health to ensure quality and timely response to issues
o Coordination with winemakers regarding fruit goals, grape readiness, and harvest timing
o Regular communication with ownership regarding completed tasks, upcoming needs, and vineyard status
Equipment Operation and Grounds Care
· Operate mechanized equipment as needed, including:
o Tractors for foliar spraying, material transport, and vineyard tasks
o Zero-turn mowers for vineyard rows and estate grounds
o Utility vehicles (Gator) for equipment and supply transport
o Grounds care equipment including weed eaters, blowers, and chainsaws
o Other farm or estate equipment as required
· Perform routine care, maintenance, and safe operation of all equipment
Recordkeeping and Compliance
· Maintain accurate farming and vineyard records, including pest management logs and seasonal vine events from budbreak through harvest
· Ensure compliance with safety standards, pesticide regulations, and best vineyard practices
Estate Presentation
· Ensure vineyard and estate grounds are consistently guest-ready, including areas surrounding the tasting room, pavilion, cabins, and support structures
Position Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in viticulture, horticulture, or a related field and/or a certificate of completion from a viticulture or related program; relevant work experience preferred
- Previous vineyard field experience strongly preferred, including vineyard management responsibilities
- English literacy required; Spanish fluency strongly preferred
- Previous tractor and farm equipment experience preferred
- Ability to work independently with strong judgment, initiative, and problem-solving skills
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to lead and direct field workers while remaining hands-on
- Ability to walk and work on sloped vineyard terrain in varying weather conditions
- Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds
- Currently possess or be able to obtain a North Carolina Private Pesticide Applicator Certificate
- Experience using and adhering to required personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Valid driver’s license, good driving record, auto insurance, and ability to travel within North Carolina
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including occasional evenings and weekends
Position Type
This is a part-time to full-time opportunity to bring your vineyard management expertise to a growing estate winery with a collaborative, hands-on environment.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $20.00 - $26.00 per hour
Expected hours: 25 – 40 per week
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Professional development assistance
Education:
License/Certification:
- NC Private Applicator Permit (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Mayodan, NC 27027 (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
