Vineyard Irrigator

Foley Family Wines & Spirits; Sonoma (CA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Foley Family Wines & Spirits is looking for a Vineyard Irrigator to operate, monitor, and maintain irrigation systems essential for ensuring optimal vine health and grape quality. This role involves executing irrigation schedules, troubleshooting issues, and performing maintenance in a vineyard setting.

The ideal candidate will have experience in agricultural irrigation, mechanical aptitude, and must be proficient in Spanish. The position offers year-round outdoor work, requiring physical stamina and safety awareness.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in vineyard or agricultural irrigation preferred.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
• Valid driver’s license required.

Responsibilities

• Operate and manage vineyard irrigation systems including pumps, valves, filters.
• Execute irrigation events according to the schedule.
• Monitor system performance and repair issues as needed.

Skills

Vineyard or agricultural irrigation experience

Mechanical aptitude

Spanish language proficiency

Basic recordkeeping skills

Tools

Tractor operation

Irrigation systems maintenance

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 irrigation 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.

Requirements

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

• 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

• Follow all safety policies, procedures, and training requirements.
• Use equipment, tractors, chemicals, and tools responsibly and as instructed.
• Complete Safety Catches to help identify hazards before accidents happen.
• Report unsafe conditions, near‑misses, and incidents immediately.
• Participate in required safety meetings, trainings, and refreshers.
• Speak 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.