Vineyard Foreman

Merkin Vineyards is a small Arizona Vineyard and Winery. We work with a very diverse range of grapes grown at high elevation, both red and white. Our company is family owned and operated and is firmly committed to its core mission of growing Arizona grapes to produce Arizona wines at an award-winning level of quality and consistency. Visit us online at https://caduceus.org/.

Position: Vineyard Foreman Location: Verde Valley, AZ (Cornville, Cottonwood, Clarkdale)

Job Description:

• Lead and supervise vineyard crews across daily cultural practices for the full growing cycle, including pruning, tying, suckering/shoot thinning, leaf and fruit thinning, canopy management, and hand harvest.
• Plan, assign, and follow up on daily work so crews meet quality and timing standards set by the Vineyard Manager.
• Train crew members on proper technique, safety, and quality expectations; reinforce consistent workmanship across blocks and sites.
• Coordinate closely with the Vineyard Manager on priorities, labor needs, and progress across multiple vineyard sites.
• Inspect equipment and field conditions daily; report maintenance, repair, and safety issues promptly.
• Support pest and disease scouting, fertilizer and spray programs, irrigation checks, and basic record-keeping as directed.
• Assist with trellis, irrigation, and drainage installation or repair as needed.
• Operate vineyard equipment when required (tractors, ATVs/utility vehicles, and related implements) and model safe operating procedures.
• Maintain a safe work environment; support company safety programs and protect people, property, and the environment.
• Work as a team with co-workers in a manner consistent with the company’s value of exhibiting the highest quality standards in all endeavors.
• Any other duties as reasonably required.

Job Type: Full time – 40+ hours a week Salary: $48,000–$55,000 DOE

Minimum Qualifications:

• Proven vineyard, farm, or orchard experience, with wine grape viticulture preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to lead a crew, give clear instructions, and hold a high work standard.
• Knowledge of canopy management, pruning, and seasonal vineyard practices.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Bilingual English/Spanish required; must communicate effectively with crew members and management in both languages.
• Willing to work irregular shifts and long hours, particularly during harvest, including weekends and holidays as needed.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while collaborating effectively with a team.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Two or more years of vineyard supervisory or foreman experience.
• Experience operating tractors and other vineyard machinery.
• Familiarity with irrigation systems and basic vineyard equipment maintenance.

Physical Requirements / Work Environment:

• Works outdoors in hot and cold climates and on wet surfaces.
• Exposed to loud noise, fumes, and/or chemicals; works near moving mechanical parts.
• Must be able to lift 55 lbs. frequently.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must be able to sit and/or stand for long periods of time.

Join us at Merkin Vineyards and be a part of crafting consistently exceptional Arizona wines at an award-winning level of quality. Apply now to grow with us!

MERKIN VINEYARDS/BIG EMPTY SPACE is an EEO/AA/Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran employer.