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Vineyard Manager (SRA 3)

University of California - Davis
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, paid holidays, sick time, long term disability, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Davis
Mar 04, 2026
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Job ID
84701
Location
Davis
Full/Part Time
Full Time
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Job Summary

Under general supervision, the incumbent will serve as the lead for vineyard research operations within the grape breeding program and is responsible for the scientific and operational oversight of field experiments, advanced breeding selections, and germplasm collections. The incumbent independently plans, executes, and evaluates vineyard-based research activities and contributes original ideas to experimental implementation and refinement. The role ensures that vineyard operations are executed in alignment with academic research objectives, experimental designs, and funding commitments. On an ongoing and annual basis, the position plans, coordinates, and oversees the establishment and maintenance of vineyard trials, supports multi-year breeding and research projects, and leads large-scale data collection efforts essential to the program's research output. The position collaborates with the academic supervisor to translate research objectives into field protocols and procedures and may adapt or refine operational approaches to improve data quality, efficiency, and experimental reliability without changing the overall research direction. The position works closely with the PI and interdisciplinary research teams to support sampling, evaluations, and experimental activities tied to breeding, genomics, and applied research initiatives. The position develops, standardizes, and documents vineyard research techniques and protocols (SOPs) and trains staff and students in their consistent application. The position provides day-to-day technical direction and oversight of student employees, temporary staff, and junior research personnel to ensure safe, efficient, and timely completion of vineyard activities. The position is accountable for maintaining research continuity, data quality, and experimental integrity across vineyard operations, as well as for preparing technical summaries and reports that support internal decision-making and external reporting requirements.

Apply By Date March 17, 2026 at 11:59pm

Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position

  • Required to hold a valid California driver's license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies/procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program
  • Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Sciences, Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, Soil Science, Plant Science, Viticulture, or related field.
  • Minimum 5 years of professional experience in agricultural research, agronomy, viticulture, or a related field.
  • Demonstrated experience in field-based experiments, data collection, and research trial execution.
  • Advanced knowledge of agricultural research principles, including experimental design, field trial implementation, and data collection methodologies. Demonstrated skills in coordinating and vineyard operations to ensure accurate execution of research protocols and timelines.
  • Ability to apply agronomic principles related to soil fertility, irrigation, and plant performance in field-based research settings. Ability to collect, organize, and summarize research data with attention to accuracy, consistency, and scientific rigor.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills to prepare technical summaries and reports. Ability to collaborate effectively with research teams and supervisors.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Graduate-level or doctoral-level coursework or advanced training in Agronomy, Soil Science, Plant Science, Viticulture, or a related discipline.
  • Experience supervising vineyards and/or field research operations. Specifically, the coordination of personnel and multi-site or multi-year trials.
  • Experience working with grapevines, perennial cropping systems, or breeding and germplasm evaluation programs.
  • Experience preparing technical reports, summaries, or documentation for research programs, funding agencies, or industry stakeholders.

  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while coordinating effectively across interdisciplinary research teams.

Key Responsibilities

  • 90% - Vineyard Operations
  • 10% - Research Coordination And Data Support

Department Overview

The Department of Viticulture and Enology supports research, teaching, and extension activities in viticulture and grapevine breeding within the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at the University of California, Davis. The department's mission is to advance scientific knowledge and develop innovative solutions that support sustainable grape production and the long-term competitiveness of the grape and wine industry. Departmental activities include applied and basic research in grapevine genetics, breeding, physiology, and vineyard management, with a strong emphasis on field-based experimentation, germplasm conservation, and data-driven decision making. The department collaborates extensively with campus researchers, industry stakeholders, and funding agencies to conduct research that addresses current and emerging challenges in viticulture. Through integrated research programs, hands-on training, and outreach, the department contributes to the university's land-grant mission by generating knowledge, developing improved plant materials, and supporting the transfer of research-based practices to the grape and wine industry.

This position has a broad impact on the department by providing leadership and oversight for vineyard-based research operations that support the grape breeding program. The role directly influences the quality, continuity, and success of field experiments, germplasm maintenance, and data collection efforts that underpin the department's research mission. The position operates with a high degree of independence and collaborates closely with faculty, research staff, and technical teams across the department. By coordinating vineyard activities and aligning them with research objectives, the role serves as a critical link between experimental design and field implementation.

POSITION INFORMATION

  • Salary or Pay Range: $71,852.07/annually - $115,539.11/annually
  • Salary Frequency: Annually
  • UC Job Title: SRA 3
  • Number of Positions: 1
  • Appointment Type: Staff: Career
  • Percentage of Time: 100% - Fixed
  • Shift (Work Schedule): Monday -Friday, 8am - 5pm
  • Location: Davis, CA.
  • Union Representation: RX-Research Professionals
  • Benefits Eligible: Yes
  • This position is 100% on-site

Benefits

Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility rules by visiting either our handy Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees and our Benefits Page.

If you are represented by a union, benefits are negotiated between the University of California (UC) and your union and finalized in a contract. Read your bargaining unit's employment contract, stay abreast of current negotiations and learn about collective bargaining at UC: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/labor/bargaining-units/index.html

  • High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
  • UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your family
  • Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave
  • Paid Holidays annually as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
  • Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
  • Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
  • Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
  • WorkLife and Wellness programs and resources
  • On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
  • Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance and legal coverage
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) Qualified Employer & Student Loan Repayment Assistance Program for qualified roles
  • Retirement benefit options for eligible roles including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans. More information on our retirement benefits can be found here

Physical Demands

  • Standing - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
  • Walking - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
  • Sitting - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
  • Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
  • Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
  • Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
  • Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours

Mental Demands

  • Sustained attention and concentration - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
  • Complex problem solving/reasoning - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
  • Ability to organize & prioritize - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
  • Communication skills - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
  • Numerical skills - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
  • Constant Interaction - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
  • Customer/Patient Contact - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
  • Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours

Work Environment

UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.

Occasional visits to research sites within the state and outside UC Davis to collect samples, supervise experiments, and support research activities.

Special Requirements - Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position

  • N/A

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging

At UC Davis, we're committed to solving life's most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.

As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.

To view the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination

Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role-or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere

To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks

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