Château des Charmes is one of the oldest wineries in the Niagara Region creating exceptional wines and executing first-in-class hospitality experiences. The winery was founded in 1978. With our unique and rich history, widely appreciated and recognized wine, we offer an extensive variety of tours, tasting experiences, and corporate events for all guests. Through our commitment to quality, sustainability, and hospitality, Château des Charmes continues to foster a strong connection with our customers and the community.
Job Opportunity: Vineyard Specialist
Overview: The Vineyard Specialist is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations of the vineyard while also providing operational support across the winery as needed. This role contributes to vineyard management, harvest, cellar operations, bottling, and other production activities to ensure the successful production of premium-quality wines.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform all seasonal vineyard tasks, including pruning, tying, shoot thinning, canopy management, leaf removal, cluster thinning, and harvesting.
- Monitor vine health, grape development, and overall vineyard conditions.
- Identify and report pest, disease, weed, irrigation, or nutrient concerns.
- Assist with implementing integrated pest management (IPM) and sustainable vineyard practices.
- Operate and maintain vineyard equipment, machinery, and tools safely and effectively.
- Apply fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides in accordance with Ontario regulations and company policies (where appropriately licensed).
- Assist with irrigation management and vineyard infrastructure maintenance, including trellis systems, fencing, and drainage.
- Maintain accurate records of vineyard activities, crop observations, chemical applications, and equipment maintenance.
- Support harvest planning and coordinate with winery operations during vintage.
- Ensure compliance with all health and safety policies, environmental regulations, and standard operating procedures.
- Contribute to a positive, collaborative team environment and assist with training seasonal vineyard staff as required.
Additional Key Responsibilities
- Provide operational support across the winery as required, including cellar operations, bottling, packaging, warehousing, and harvest activities.
- Assist with wine transfers, sanitation, bottling line setup and operation, labeling, case packing, and other production-related tasks as assigned.
- Collaborate with the Operations team to support seasonal priorities and ensure efficient workflow across vineyard, cellar, and production departments.
- Maintain flexibility to perform other duties as assigned in support of the overall Operations team and business objectives.
Qualifications
- Diploma or degree in Viticulture, Agriculture, Horticulture, Plant Science, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and practical experience.
- Minimum 2 years of vineyard, agricultural, or horticultural experience preferred.
- Familiarity with integrated pest management (IPM), vine nutrition, irrigation, and crop management practices.
- Ability to operate tractors and vineyard equipment safely.
- Strong observational, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently while contributing effectively as part of a team.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions throughout the year.
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb, and perform repetitive physical tasks.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 25 kg (55 lbs).
- Ability to work extended hours during peak seasonal periods, including harvest, when required.
Working Conditions
- Primarily outdoor work in all weather conditions.
- Seasonal fluctuations in workload, with increased hours during pruning and harvest.
- Occasional weekend or holiday work may be required based on operational needs.
What We Offer
· Compensation: $75,000 – 80,000 annually, based on qualifications and experience.
· Comprehensive benefits package (where applicable).
· Employee wine purchase program and other company perks.
· The opportunity to work in one of Ontario's premier wine regions.
· A collaborative, inclusive, and safety-focused work environment dedicated to producing premium-quality grapes and wines.
How to Apply
To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter to [email protected].
Commitment to Equity & Accessibility
Château des Charmes is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. If you require accommodation at any stage of the application process, please contact [email protected].
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $75,000.00-$80,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
