Grower Relations Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bogle Family Wine Collection (BFWC) is located in the heart of the AVA of Clarksburg, California, and is run by the sixth generation of Bogles, who live and work in the Sacramento Delta region. Bogle was honored as Wine Enthusiast’s 2019 American Winery of the Year and CAWG’s 2022 Grower of the Year for our sustainability efforts in the winery and vineyards.

Our work is guided by a commitment to family, sustainability, the vineyards, winemaking, and our employees, many of whom have been with us for decades. These pillars shape how we operate, collaborate, and produce wines we are proud to share. We are family-owned and operated and are committed to preserving our family business and its culture.

Position Summary:

Under limited supervision, the Grower Relations Representative monitors development of contracted blocks and requests interventions as needed to meet Bogle Family Winery quality standards. Manages the grape sugar sampling program and makes scheduling recommendations to optimize fruit ripeness. Develops specific goals, procedures, and quality objectives for the wine-growing process.

Essential Functions:

• Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with contracted growers, acting as a liaison between the winery and the vineyard.
• Coordinate visits with growers to monitor development of all contracted blocks.
• Communicate with growers to present fruit quality goals for Bogle Family Vineyards, while also responding to growers’ concerns.
• Learn and memorize the locations and boundaries of each defined vineyard block, understanding that new blocks may be added throughout the season.
• Drive to all necessary vineyard sites. Maintain company vehicles in good condition.
• Monitor vineyards for quality, with special attention given to pests and diseases, nutritional deficiencies, canopy flaws, and excessive crops.
• Develop and maintain vineyard records of block characteristics, cultural practices, yields, grape quality. Advise winery on block quality for repeated purchase purposes.
• Take handwritten notes, texts, photos, and/or physical samples to communicate and track any issues of vine or vineyard conditions that may arise.
• Write annual report summarizing season.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science in Viticulture, Enology, or related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in vineyard management, grower relations, or wine production.
• Independent, self-starter.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams.
• Proficiency in record-keeping and data management systems.
• Ability to travel extensively within the state and work flexible hours during the harvest season.
• Must have a valid driver’s license, current insurance and must be insurable under the company’s auto policy. Must comply with all Bogle Family Winery driver guidelines.

Working Conditions:

This job requires extensive travel within the state of California, with occasional overnight trips when necessary. Long hours spent driving and walking through vineyards are required. You must be self-motivated, independent, and have excellent navigational skills. Working conditions in the vineyards and in certain areas of the winery may be hot, cold, wet, slippery and noisy, and involve exposure to potentially hazardous conditions and/or chemicals. In the vineyard you will encounter variable weather conditions, uneven terrain, wildlife, sulfur and other chemicals. Seasonal variation in workload and long hours during the main growing season and harvest are required.

Physical Requirements:

Must be able to lift and carry at least 55 pounds frequently. Must be able to walk, sit, bend, twist, and/or stand for long periods of time. The physical requirements listed are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential duties and key responsibilities of this position.

Benefits & Compensation:

Employer-sponsored medical, dental, and vision plans, voluntary supplemental plans, 401(k) employer-match, Paid Time Off, paid holidays, employee discounts, and more.

Compensation range: $70,304 - $75,000/yr

Individual offers are made contingent upon a candidate's prior experience and education level as they relate to the role. Job offers are contingent upon successfully passing pre-employment screenings, which include a standard 8-panel drug test and a comprehensive background check.