Machinery Operator & Vineyard Specialist

winejobsonline.com; Otago; On-site; NZD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Permanent employment

Supportive team environment

Vineyard and machinery skills dev

Job summary

Felton Road Wines in Central Otago is seeking an experienced Machinery Operator & Vine­yard Specialist to join the vineyard team in Bannockburn. This full-time role requires confidence operating tractors and vineyard machinery and a willingness to participate in broader vineyard tasks.

You will work closely with a dedicated team, carry out routine machinery checks, and contribute to safe, sustainable vineyard practices. A valid driver’s license is advantageous for this diverse, hands‑on position.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in operating agricultural or specialist machinery.
• Good mechanical aptitude and interest in machinery maintenance.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team; valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Operate tractors and specialist vineyard machinery safely and efficiently.
• Carry out general vineyard and property work.
• Pitch in where the team needs you – including non-tractor vine work.
• Support seasonal vineyard activities and day-to-day operations.
• Undertake routine machinery checks and basic maintenance.
• Keep machinery, equipment and work areas clean and organized.
• Follow health, safety, environmental and quality standards.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of vineyard practices.

Skills

Operating machinery

Mechanical aptitude

Work independently

Team player

Driver's license

Job description

MACHINERY OPERATOR & VINEYARD SPECIALIST

For 30 years, Felton Road has carved an enviable position as a globally renowned brand for its fine quality, vineyard expressive Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays and Rieslings. Its four estate vineyards in Central Otago’s Bannockburn sub-region are farmed and certified organic and biodynamic; along with committed sustainability programmes throughout its properties and business, and a technically innovative approach to viticulture. The wines are produced with the gentlest touch respecting the origin of the grapes as much as possible. Just as we respect the individuality of our vineyards, we value the diversity of people and perspectives that strengthen our business. We are committed to a fair, inclusive, and accessible recruitment process where every applicant is treated with respect and given an equal opportunity to contribute.

Felton Road Wines is looking for an experienced, Machinery Operator & Vineyard Specialist to join our vineyard team in Bannockburn, Central Otago.

This is a full-time permanent opportunity for someone who is confident on a tractor, takes pride in operating machinery well and enjoys being part a wider vineyard team.

About The Role

Your responsibilities will include:

• Operating tractors and specialist vineyard machinery safely and efficiently
• Carrying out general vineyard and property work
• Pitch in where the team need you – including getting off the tractor and getting stuck into the vines
• Supporting seasonal vineyard activities and day-to-day vineyard operations
• Undertaking routine machinery checks and basic maintenance
• Keeping machinery, equipment and work areas clean and organised
• Following our health, safety, environmental and quality standards
• Contributing to the continuous improvement of our vineyard practices

About You

You may have previous vineyard, agricultural, horticultural or mechanical experience. Most importantly, we're looking for someone who brings a positive attitude, practical skills and a commitment to doing good work.

You Will Ideally Have

• Proven experience in operating agricultural or specialist machinery
• Good mechanical aptitude and an interest in machinery maintenance
• A strong work ethic and commitment to doing things well
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team
• A current driver's licence

We recognise that skills and experience can be gained in different ways.

What We Offer

At Felton Road, we want our people to have meaningful work, fair and respectful employment and opportunities to develop their skills.

We Offer

• Permanent, full-time employment
• A supportive and respectful team environment
• A varied role working across our vineyards and seasons
• Opportunities to develop vineyard, machinery and technical skills
• A strong focus on health, safety and wellbeing
• A workplace committed to environmental and social responsibility
• The opportunity to contribute to the care of our biodynamic vineyards and the production of exceptional Central Otago wines

Join us

If you're an experienced machinery operator, or have transferable agricultural, horticultural or mechanical skills, and would like to work with a team that cares deeply about its people, its land and the quality of its work, we'd love to hear from you.

Applications close: Monday 7 September 2026

You must be a NZ resident or legally entitled to work in New Zealand on a permanent basis; this role is not suitable for working holiday or sponsorship visas.