Viticulture Summer Student

Viticulture Summer Student

About Us: Arterra Wines Canada’s Western Viticulture Department is a multi-farm operation with world class properties spanning across the South Okanagan from Osoyoos to Naramata. We have premium vineyards containing a wide range of grape varieties, soil types and growing conditions. Our organization has an industry leading leadership team; a collaborative working environment full of determination and success; and a structure which offers best in class training and development to our team members.

Role Summary: We are currently recruiting for a detail orientated, organized individual who is self-motivated to fill the Viticulture Summer Student position based out of our Viticulture Office located in Oliver, BC. Successful applicants will gain experience assisting in the integrated pest management program, crop estimation, vineyard operations, and harvest. Additional skills developed include field work, pest and disease identification, time management, collecting and organizing data. Work will be span across company managed vineyards and grower client vineyards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Monitor vineyards for insects, diseases, weeds.
• Collect biological field data and samples with consistency and accuracy.
• Identify problems or irregularities in vineyards.
• Communicate effectively with grower clients, field crews, and supervisors.
• Navigate between and within vineyards.
• Assist on research projects (as available).
• Other duties as required.

Qualifications: This position is suitable to applicants who possess a mature work ethic, are interested in agriculture or related disciplines, and are able to work a physically demanded outdoor job. Applicants must have access to a reliable vehicle and a valid BC (or equivalent) driver’s license. Relevant skills and experience include:

• Previous experience or education in agriculture, biology, or ecology.
• Basic field orientation skills (mapping, compass, GPS).
• Capable of producing high quality work with limited direct supervision.
• Ability to walk throughout the day on uneven terrain in a variety of weather conditions.

Duration and working conditions: A work term of up to 6 months, ideally starting May 4 to August 28. 40 hours per week. Longer hours may be required on occasion during the growing season and expected during harvest.

Compensation: $20.60/hour

NOTE: The successful candidate may be able to apply for the Summer Farm, Food & Fisheries Bursary Program through the Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC.