The Opportunity:
Voyager Estate is one of Australia’s foremost organic wine producers and one of Margaret Rivers founding wine estates. Our second-generation, family-owned winery in southern Margaret River, is defined by our certified organic vineyards, a long term commitment to enriching the environment, and exceptional wines that express site and purity. Since 1978, our focus has remained constant: Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon of site-specific character and enduring distinction. Our 100-hectare property has been shaped by decades of regenerative viticulture and a long view toward sustainability. As a member of International Wineries for Climate Action, our goal is ambitious and essential – Net Zero by 2050. This ethos guides every part of how we grow, make and share our wine.
Voyager Estate have an incredible opportunity for a dynamic Junior Viticulturist to join the team and help develop and drive this vision. We’re looking for a detail focused individual with a holistic property view, someone who understands that every task is inter-linked and timing is critical to deliver wines of absolute quality. We’re looking for someone who understands that soil health, plant physiology and ecosystem processes all play a role in producing wines that speak of a place and time.
This is a comprehensive role. The Junior Viticulturist take part in all operational activities from canopy management to machinery operation. They will engage in all technical viticulture activities including pruning planning, yield management, P&D monitoring and water scheduling. They will also have a hand in farm activities, livestock movements and care, fencing, infrastructure maintenance and compost production. The successful applicant will be confident enough to lead teams, humble enough to be part of a small teams and curious enough to keep learning.
The Junior Viticulturist reports to the Head Viticulturist and interacts daily with the entire viticulture team. This exciting role is suited to someone ready to take the next step in their career, who is ready to learn and develop their skills in a tight knit team with a focus on regenerative organic viticulture and quality winegrowing. This role is a mix of technical and practical; theoretical knowledge and hands on skills are both valuable. A thirst for on-going learning and development is critical.
Key Responsibilities:
• Daily vineyard operations, including planting, pruning, training, and harvesting vines
• Daily mechanical operations, including spraying, weeding, mowing, crimping and mulching
• Observing vine health, identifying issues, and communicating with the Head Viticulturist
• Implement preventative measures and controls for pests and diseases affecting grapevines
• Collect and interpret technical records of vineyard activities, including soil and foliar tests, vine monitoring data, treatments, and harvest data
• Assist the Head Viticulturist and Operations Supervisor with various tasks, including machinery operation, equipment maintenance, and sample collection.
• Participate in the grape harvest, ensuring grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness and quality
• Adhere to company policies and procedures, including health and safety regulations and organic certification
Skills and Qualifications:
• A completed tertiary qualification or currently studying in viticulture or associated field and/or multiple seasons working in a vineyard.
• Have a passion for regenerative organic viticulture and the craft and science of grape cultivation.
• Understanding of grape varieties, vine growth stages, and vineyard practices.
• The ability to perform physically demanding tasks outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Work effectively with other members of the vineyard team, contractors and wider staff.
• Ability to communicate effectively, think critically and implement strategy.
• Driver’s license, right to work in Australia.
