Assistant Winemaker

The HEINEKEN Company; Worcester; On-site; ZAR 30 000 - 60 000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in the beverage sector is on the lookout for a dedicated individual to join their Fortified Wines department. This role involves overseeing the final stages of wine production, ensuring quality control, and managing stock effectively. The ideal candidate will possess a tertiary qualification in winemaking and have hands-on experience in cellar operations. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a dynamic team in a fast-paced environment, where your skills in leadership and problem-solving will shine. Join a company that values inclusion and diversity, and make your mark in the world of winemaking!

Qualifications

• Minimum 2-3 years of experience in cellar operations and winemaking.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Perform final corrections to fortified wine products prior to dispatch.
• Control and handle dry goods and manage bulk stock.
• Lead the blending team and maintain good housekeeping standards.

Skills

Cellar operations experience

Winemaking experience

Computer literacy in MS Office Suite

Basic SAP knowledge

Time management skills

Interpersonal skills

Problem solving skills

Education

Tertiary level qualification in winemaking

Tools

SAP

MS Office Suite

Job description

We Go Places! How about you?
Immediate Superior:[[Gerard Schreuder]]
Job Grade:[[09]]
Location: [[Goudini Distillery]]
Function: [[Supply Chain]]
Sub Function: [[Manufacturing]]
Type of Contract: [[Permanent]]
Reference Number: [[136392]]
Closing Date: 12/05/2025

Applications are invited for the above-mentioned position based in the Fortified Wines department at the Goudini Distillery. The successful candidate will report to the Winemaker: Fortified Wines.

Key Performance Areas would include, but are not limited to :

• Perform all final corrections to fortified wine products prior to dispatch
• Sampling for the dispatch department
• Monthly stock taking
• Control and handling of dry goods
• Weekly reconciliation of bulk stock and dry goods
• Ordering and offloading of dry goods
• Control the receipts and storage of intrinsic products
• Effective control of Processing systems
• Minimum and maximum stock level checks for dry goods
• Responsible for monthly excise accounts, MM – ICC and Excise ICC reports
• Daily recording of SAP transactions relevant to department
• Control in the blending of fortified wines and filtration
• Assist with weigh bridge operating functions when required
• Team leader of TPM team meetings
• Implementing and sustaining TPM standards
• Effective leadership of the blending team
• Maintain good housekeeping standards
• Do physical receipts and dispatch as per weekly bulk program
• Management of bulk stock in area of responsibility
• Liaise effectively with transporters and internal customers

The successful candidate must have the following qualification, skills and experience:

• A tertiary level qualification in wine making or similar
• Minimum 2 -3 years of cellar operations and winemaking experience
• Computer literacy in MS Office Suite
• Basic SAP knowledge would be an advantage
• Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast paced environment
• Ability to work effectively with minimal supervision (Self-starter)
• Sound people and time management skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Excellent problem solving skills
• Own transport and willingness to work irregular hours
• Punctuality and attendance reliability essential

The Company’s approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply. Heineken Beverages (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd) is committed to an organisational culture that recognises, appreciates and values inclusion and diversity. You must be fully eligible to live and work in South Africa to apply.