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About Us:
Formed in 1959, Mercer Ranches is a fifth-generation family lead, diversified agricultural company located high above the Columbia River in the Horse Heaven Hills of South Eastern Washington. We are a leader in high tech, sustainable agriculture and viticulture. Our agricultural products include carrots, potatoes, onions, corn, organics and wine grapes along with several other custom grown crops. We also operate our award-winning family winery, Mercer Estates, along with a custom crush and wine making operation.
Due to the rapid growth in our vineyard operations, we currently have an opening for a full-time Viticulturist in Alderdale, WA.
Primary Responsibilities:
This position will work directly for the Director of Viticulture and will be responsible for the irrigation, pest monitoring, crop estimation and hand labor/mechanization quality assurance for 1300+ acres. This person will also be responsible for all chemical spray plans and in-season recommendations/work orders. This position will require ATV operation. Specific job duties will include, but not be limited to the following:
Direct supervision of irrigation foreman and employees
Proper operation and maintenance of irrigation infrastructure
Creation of irrigation schedule
Weekly scouting of all vineyard acres
Accurate, organized scouting notes (excel) and their dissemination
Oversee irrigation equipment and crew
Chemical recommendations based on pest thresholds
Winter, spring and summer crop estimation
Staying up to date on current knowledge and technology for the department
Quality assurance of vineyard tasks carried out by people and machine
Coordinating operations with other departments as needed
Providing leadership to others through examples and sharing of knowledge and skills
Self-teaching and independent research of strategy/task-pertinent information
Minimum Requirements:
Bachelors Degree in Viticulture or related field
4+ years of related experience
Experience in a leadership role
Pesticide Applicator License (WA state)
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Strong computer skills, including email, MS Excel and Office
Possess good organizational and interpersonal skills
Clean driving record (MVR) and possess a valid drivers license
Great Attitude
Bilingual (English-Spanish) is preferred, but not required
Benefits:
Salary range (based on experience): $55,000-$75,000
Annual bonus program based on company profitability
Company vehicle for work and commuting
Paid time off vacation, sick, and holidays
Medical, dental, vision, long term disability, life insurance, & Aflac are all available with Mercer Ranches paying a portion of the monthly premium (varies on the type of insurance and level of coverage selected)
401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions