Oenologist

Placements24; Waukee (IA); Hybrid; USD 33,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Annual bonus based on performance

Wine allowance and staff discounts

Relocation assistance may be offered

Professional development and wine-judg

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Oenologist to join a leading wine producer in the Paarl region. You will guide the entire winemaking process, from grape reception to bottling, applying a scientific approach to fermentation science and cellar management.

The role calls for strong analytical skills, creativity in winemaking, and a collaborative mindset to help craft wines with exceptional character and consistency.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in oenology, winemaking science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years hands-on winemaking experience, preferably in SA.
• Strong knowledge of fermentation kinetics, microbial control and wine stabilization.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all winemaking stages including fermentation management, yeast selection, and nutrient addition.
• Conduct regular grape and wine analyses to monitor quality, stability and development.
• Develop and refine winemaking techniques to improve quality, style and consistency.
• Manage cellar operations including barrel maturation, blending, filtration and bottling.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene and quality standards.
• Collaborate with vineyard team to ensure optimal grape quality at harvest.
• Maintain detailed records of winemaking activities and analytical results.

Skills

Fermentation kinetics

Microbial control

Wine stabilization techniques

Laboratory analysis

Sensory evaluation

Project management

Team collaboration

Education

Master's or PhD in Oenology / Winemaking Science

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished wine producer located in the scenic Paarl valley, seeks a highly skilled and innovative Oenologist to join their winemaking team. You will be instrumental in the entire winemaking process, from grape reception and fermentation to maturation and bottling, ensuring the highest quality and character of their wines. This role demands a scientific approach, creative flair, and a deep understanding of fermentation science and cellar management. Join a team dedicated to excellence and the art of winemaking in the beautiful Western Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of the winemaking process, including fermentation management, yeast selection, and nutrient addition.
• Conduct regular analysis of grapes and wines to monitor quality, stability, and development.
• Develop and refine winemaking techniques to enhance wine quality, style, and consistency.
• Manage cellar operations, including barrel maturation, blending, filtration, and bottling.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant food safety, hygiene, and quality standards.
• Collaborate with the vineyard team to ensure optimal grape quality at harvest.
• Maintain detailed records of all winemaking activities and analytical results.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Oenology , Winemaking Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands‑on experience in winemaking, preferably within the South African wine industry.
• Strong knowledge of fermentation kinetics, microbial control, and wine stabilization techniques.
• Proficiency in laboratory analysis and cellar management software.
• Excellent sensory evaluation skills and an understanding of wine styles.
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects and work effectively in a team environment.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and annual bonus based on performance.
• Opportunities for professional development and participation in wine competitions.
• Generous wine allowance and staff discounts.
• Relocation assistance may be considered.
• A chance to contribute to critically acclaimed wines from a leading Cape winery .