Vineyard Irrigator

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

Foley Family Farms (FFF) is a rapidly growing West Coast company with farming in California and Oregon.

Position Summary:
The Vineyard Irrigator is responsible for the operation, monitoring, and maintenance of irrigation systems to ensure optimal vine health and grape quality. This role plays a critical part in winegrape production by delivering precise water applications based on vineyard needs, seasonal conditions, and direction from vineyard management.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Operate and manage vineyard irrigation systems, including pumps, valves, filters, and drip lines.
• Execute irrigations events according to the irrigation schedule provided by the Vineyard Manager.
• Monitor system performance, identify and repair issues such as leaks, clogged emitters, damaged lines, and filter blockages.
• Perform routine maintenance on irrigation infrastructure and related equipment.
• Assist with frost protection, heat mitigation practices, and fertigation as required.
• Maintain accurate irrigation logs and records, including water usage and system performance.
• Coordinate irrigation activities with other vineyard operations, including spraying, harvesting, cultivation, and canopy work.
• Assist with general vineyard tasks as needed, particularly during peak seasons.

Education, Skills, & Experience

• Previous experience in vineyard or agricultural irrigation preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot and repair irrigation systems
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
• Basic recordkeeping skills required.
• Spanish language proficiency required; English is a plus.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Tractor or agricultural equipment operation experience is a plus.

Physical Requirements

This position requires the ability to perform physical tasks associated with vineyard operations, including:
• Walk vineyard terrain for extended periods.
• Lifting, carrying, and moving objects weighing up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Bending, kneeling, and working with tools and equipment frequently.
• Using personal protective equipment (PPE) as required for tasks involving chemicals, dust, or noise exposure.

Work Environment

This position involves year-round outdoor work in a vineyard setting, often in varying weather conditions including heat, cold, wind, and rain. This role requires working around agricultural machinery, tractors, equipment with moving parts, and moderate to loud noise levels.

The position may involve exposure to dust, pollen, and agricultural chemicals, with appropriate PPE provided. Early morning start times, occasional weekend work, and extended hours during peak vineyard operations (including harvest and frost events) may be required.

Safety
Foley Family Farms employees are expected to work safely, follow all components of the company safety program, and actively support our safety culture.
Every employee plays a role in keeping themselves and their team safe. This includes:
Following all safety policies, procedures, and training requirements.
Using equipment, tractors, chemicals, and tools responsibly and as instructed.
Completing Safety Catches to help identify hazards before accidents happen.
Reporting unsafe conditions, near-misses, and incidents immediately.
Participating in required safety meetings, trainings, and refreshers.
Speaking up with suggestions to improve policies, procedures, and workplace safety culture.

Our goal is that everyone goes home safe every day—and your participation is essential in making that happen.