Vineyard Manager

Job Description:

Saddlehill is seeking a dedicated, hands-on Vineyard Manager to maintain our premier 70-acre estate. Located just 12 miles from Center City Philadelphia on the historic site of Stafford Farm (est. 1773), Saddlehill is the closest vineyard winery Center City Philadelhia

This role is focused on the technical excellence of our 27 acres of vineyards and the surrounding agricultural grounds. You will work in close daily collaboration with our Director of Agriculture & Property Management to execute the seasonal farm plan and maintain the high aesthetic and production standards of our "Seed to Glass" mission.

Saddlehill, formerly known as Stafford Farm, is a historic property, with a rich legacy dating back to 1773. The land was home to the Stafford family, who settled here after the Revolutionary War. For generations, they cultivated the land and later gained recognition for breeding and training harness racing horses.

Today, the estate has been transformed into Saddlehill Winery, where owners Amy and Bill Green have preserved its rich heritage while creating a destination where guests can enjoy estate-crafted wines, farm-to-table culinary delights, and a peaceful escape from everyday life.

There’s Always Something Happening at Saddlehill
From wagon tours and wine tastings to paint nights, floral workshops, and farm experiences, our calendar is full of ways to explore, learn, and unwind. Join us for an evening class, a family-friendly tour, or one of our seasonal celebrations. There’s something new each week at Saddlehill.

Duties and Responsibilities

Viticultural Execution: Manage all primary vineyard functions including pruning, canopy management, and harvest logistics for 27 acres of estate vines.

Collaboration & Reporting: Work alongside and report directly to the Director of Agriculture & Property Management to ensure all farm operations align with the estate's strategic goals and timeline.

Precision Spraying: Responsible for the calibration and application of all vineyard treatments. Must already possess a valid New Jersey Private Pesticide Applicator License.

Equipment Operation: Act as the primary operator for specialized mechanized equipment, ensuring all machinery is operated safely and maintained in peak condition.

Estate Grounds Care: Assist in the management of the broader estate, including the care of 600 fruit trees, vegetable crops, and general farm infrastructure to ensure a "guest-ready" appearance at all times.

Quality Monitoring: Conduct regular field scouting to monitor vine health, pest pressure, and grape maturity, reporting findings and proposing solutions to the Director.

Agritourism Support: Support the estate’s educational mission by ensuring the vineyards are meticulously maintained for guest visibility and occasionally leading technical "Seed to Glass" tours.

Position Requirements

Licensing: Required: Current and valid New Jersey Private Pesticide Applicator License.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in viticulture, horticulture, or a related field is preferred.

Experience: Minimum of five years of hands-on experience in vineyard management.

Technical Aptitude: Strong mechanical skills for equipment maintenance and a deep understanding of New Jersey viticultural challenges.

Physical Requirements: Ability to walk steep and inclining vineyard rows in all weather conditions and lift up to 50 pounds.

Communication: Strong interpersonal skills; bilingual English/Spanish capability is a significant advantage.

Schedule: Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends during peak harvest or spray windows.

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