Job Title: Winery Gardener
Reports To: Winery Operations Manager
Location: Durst Winery and Estate, Acampo, CA
Job Type: Full-Time, Hourly
Schedule: Thursday- Monday
Compensation: Competitive, based on experience and qualifications. Benefits package includes paid time off and sick leave days as accrued
Job Summary:
Durst Winery is seeking a dedicated and experienced Full-Time Gardener to maintain and enhance the beauty and health of our winery grounds. This pivotal role is responsible for all aspects of landscape maintenance, ensuring our gardens, pathways, and outdoor spaces are pristine, visually appealing, and reflective of our winery's brand and commitment to quality. The ideal candidate will possess a strong knowledge of horticulture, a passion for plants, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Key Responsibilities:
Horticultural Care:
Perform regular watering, fertilizing, weeding, pruning, and mulching of all garden beds, shrubs, trees, and ornamental plants.
Monitor plant health, identify and treat pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies using organic and sustainable practices where possible.
Implement and maintain efficient irrigation systems.
Select, plant, and care for seasonal flowers, annuals, and perennials to ensure continuous visual appeal.
Maintain detailed records of planting schedules, treatments, and garden health.
Landscape Maintenance:
Mow, edge, and trim lawns to a high standard.
Maintain pathways, driveways, and other hardscaped areas, ensuring they are clean, clear, and free of debris.
Manage leaf removal, debris clean-up, and general tidiness of all outdoor spaces.
Operate and maintain a variety of landscaping equipment, including mowers, trimmers, blowers, chainsaws, and hand tools, ensuring their safe and proper use.
Perform minor repairs to irrigation systems, fences, and other landscape features.
Design & Development (as applicable):
Collaborate with management on landscape design enhancements and new planting projects.
Contribute ideas for improving the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the grounds.
Assist with the implementation of new garden features, hardscaping, and planting schemes.
Vineyard Periphery Care:
Maintain the perimeter of the vineyards, including any non-grape plantings, cover crops, or erosion control measures within the general landscape.
Ensure clear access and aesthetic appeal around vineyard edges.
Special Events & Guest Experience:
Ensure grounds are impeccably prepared for winery events, tours, and guest visits.
Respond promptly to any landscaping needs related to events.
Maintain a welcoming and beautiful environment for all winery visitors.
Safety & Compliance:
Adhere to all safety protocols and procedures related to gardening equipment, chemicals, and outdoor work.
Maintain a clean and organized work area and storage shed.
Comply with all relevant environmental regulations and best practices.
Other Duties: Perform other duties as assigned by management to ensure the overall success of the winery operations.
Qualifications:
Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. Certificate or degree in horticulture, landscape design, or a related field preferred.
Experience: Minimum of 3 years of professional gardening or landscaping experience, preferably in a commercial or estate setting. Experience in a winery or agricultural environment is a significant plus.
Knowledge & Skills:
Extensive knowledge of plant identification, horticulture principles, and best practices in garden maintenance.
Proficiency in operating and maintaining landscaping equipment.
Familiarity with irrigation systems and basic repair.
Understanding of sustainable gardening practices, including organic pest control and water conservation.
Ability to identify and diagnose plant diseases and pest infestations.
Basic understanding of soil science and plant nutrition.
Strong attention to detail and a keen eye for aesthetics.
Excellent time management and organizational skills.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and as part of a team.
Strong communication skills.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions (heat, cold, rain).
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly.
Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, and climb ladders for extended periods.
Manual dexterity and fine motor skills for detailed plant work.
Other:
Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
Must be able to pass a background check.
To Apply:
Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience and Please include "Winery Gardener Application" in the subject line.
Durst Winery and Estate is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.