About Milea Estate Vineyard
Milea Estate Vineyard is a premier producer of award-winning wines in New York’s Hudson Valley. With a commitment to excellence in viticulture and winemaking, we farm 18 acres across three estate vineyards, cultivating varieties including Cabernet Franc, Blaufränkisch, Regent, Vignoles, Valvin Muscat, Chardonnay, and Grüner Veltliner.

Position Overview
We are seeking a skilled and passionate Vineyard Manager to lead our vineyard operations. This role is responsible for all aspects of viticulture, working closely with our winemaker to achieve the highest quality fruit possible. The Vineyard Manager will oversee a dedicated and experienced vineyard team of three, with a primary focus on the vineyard while supporting winery activities as needed.

Key Responsibilities
Team Leadership & Operations

Manage a vineyard crew of three seasoned employees familiar with our sites and equipment.

Collaborate closely with the winemaker to align vineyard practices with wine quality goals.

Oversee seasonal tasks including pruning, shoot thinning, canopy management, fruit thinning, harvest, and replanting.

Pest, Disease, & Frost Management

Monitor and manage pressure from phomopsis, anthracnose, downy mildew, powdery mildew, black rot, botrytis, and sour rot.

Develop and implement integrated pest management strategies for Japanese beetles, spotted wing drosophila, and spotted lanternfly.

Protect vines from spring frosts and winter freeze through proactive risk mitigation strategies.

Soil & Vine Health

Manage vine vigor through understory competition and appropriate cover crop strategies.

Conduct annual plant tissue analysis and soil testing to develop fertilization and nutrient plans.

Execute nutrient management plans for balanced vine growth and fruit quality.

Equipment & Infrastructure

Maintain and oversee a fleet of tractors and vineyard equipment.

Ensure all machinery is serviced, safe, and ready for seasonal operations.

Planning & Reporting

Create and manage annual vineyard budgets in collaboration with ownership.

Maintain detailed vineyard records and schedules.

Conduct weekly (or more frequent) vineyard scouting to identify issues early and ensure proactive management.

Qualifications
3+ years of vineyard management experience, preferably in Vitis vinifera production.

Strong knowledge of Northeast viticulture and pest/disease challenges.

Familiarity with vineyard machinery, equipment repair, and safety practices.

Ability to lead and motivate a small team.

Proficient in creating and managing vineyard budgets and schedules.

Flexible, solutions-oriented, and capable of working in a fast-paced environment.

Compensation & Benefits
Competitive salary: $75,000 – $85,000 depending on experience.

Potential for additional performance-based incentives.

Access to estate wines and employee events.

Work in a scenic, award-winning Hudson Valley vineyard with a collaborative and passionate team.