Vineyard & Ranch Assistant
Location: Sta. Rita Hills, California
Reports To: Viticulturist / Vineyard Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time, Year-Round

POSITION SUMMARY
The Vineyard & Ranch Assistant will support the Viticulturist in daily vineyard and property operations for a small, premium winegrowing estate in the Sta. Rita Hills. This hands-on position involves operating and maintaining tractors and equipment, assisting with irrigation and fertigation systems, helping with rodent and pest control, and performing general property maintenance. The Assistant will also contribute to landscaping, facility upkeep, and winery operations during harvest and production. A commitment to organic and sustainable farming practices is essential.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

- Vineyard Operations
Operate and maintain tractors and implements for cultivation, mowing, spraying, and harvest support.
Assist with fertigation and irrigation setup, scheduling, system checks, and maintenance.
Help with rodent and pest control using organic and sustainable methods.
Monitor vine and soil conditions and report observations to the Viticulturist.
Participate in vineyard activities including pruning, canopy management, and harvest.
Maintain records of work performed and materials used as directed.

- Crew Support
Work with seasonal vineyard crews during key operations such as pruning, shoot thinning, canopy work, and harvest.
Promote safe and efficient work practices in the field.
Follow daily and weekly work plans provided by the Viticulturist.
Equipment & Property Maintenance
Perform basic maintenance and minor repairs on tractors, implements, ATVs, sprayers, and pumps.
Report major mechanical issues promptly for service or repair.
Keep the shop area organized and maintain tools and parts inventory.
Assist with property upkeep, including roads, fencing, drainage, landscaping, and building maintenance.
Follow all safety and environmental standards.

- Winery & Harvest Support
Assist with harvest hauling, fruit transport, and equipment setup.
Support winery operations during key periods such as harvest, bottling, and packing shipments, including tasks like bin movement, sanitation, and general production assistance.
Work cooperatively with a small team during busy periods to ensure safe and efficient workflow.

QUALIFICATIONS
1–3 years of experience in vineyard, ranch, or agricultural work.
Experience operating and maintaining crawler (track) tractors and other specialized vineyard equipment.
Basic knowledge of tractor operation and farm equipment use.
Experience with irrigation and basic mechanical maintenance helpful.
Familiarity with organic and sustainable farming practices preferred.
Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including walking, bending, stooping, and lifting up to 50 pounds regularly and up to 80 pounds occasionally.
Ability to work outdoors in variable weather conditions and perform physical labor as part of daily duties. Able to be exposed to outdoor weather fluctuations including hot and cold, agricultural chemicals, dust, pollen, soil/mud, grease, oils, and solvents.
Valid California driver’s license with a clean driving record (Class C required).
Bilingual, conversational English and Spanish.
Willingness to follow safety procedures and learn new skills.

SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES
Reliable, hardworking, and detail-oriented.
Strong communication and teamwork skills.
Commitment to quality, sustainability, and continuous learning.
Positive attitude and pride in work quality and property care.
Flexible and adaptable to seasonal changes and diverse tasks.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
$22.00 – $25.00 per hour, based on experience and qualifications.
This position is eligible for overtime pay in accordance with California agricultural labor laws.
Two weeks paid vacation per year (accrued and scheduled with management approval).
Monthly phone reimbursement.
Annual wine allowance.
Compensation will be reviewed and evaluated according to skills, performance, and experience.

SCHEDULE
Full-time, year-round.
Typical schedule Monday–Friday, with seasonal overtime and weekend work as needed during harvest or major vineyard operations.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT
The Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable legal requirements. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.