Farm Manager - Sustainable Viticulture

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 550,000 - 850,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-site accommodation

Medical aid contribution

Pension fund

Performance-based bonus

Estate amenities access

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town is seeking an experienced Farm Manager to oversee our client's viticulture operations in the Western Cape. This hands-on role requires a passion for winemaking, deep grape cultivation knowledge, and a commitment to sustainable farming practices.

You will lead vineyard staff and manage day-to-day vineyard activities. You will collaborate with the winemaker to meet varietal and stylistic goals, manage budgets and records, ensure compliance with environmental regulations,

Qualifications

• Degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agricultural Science or related field.
• 5+ years of vineyard management experience, preferably in Western Cape.
• Deep knowledge of grape varietals, soils, climate impacts and winemaking requirements.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Hands-on experience with irrigation, pest and disease management, and pruning techniques.
• Familiarity with sustainable and organic viticulture practices.

Responsibilities

• Manage all vineyard operations from planting to harvesting.
• Implement sustainable viticulture practices to improve soil health and productivity.
• Oversee irrigation, nutrient management, and pest/disease control programs.
• Supervise, train, and manage vineyard workers and ensure safety.
• Conduct regular vineyard inspections to assess vine health and grape quality.
• Collaborate with the winemaker to meet varietal and stylistic requirements.
• Manage budgets, resources, and inventory; maintain records of activities and yields.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and best practices.

Skills

Vineyard management

Team leadership

Sustainable practices

Irrigation systems

Pest and disease control

Pruning techniques

Organizational planning

Education

Viticulture/Horticulture/Agricultural Science degree

Tools

Farm management software

Office applications

Job description

About the Role Our client, a prestigious wine estate renowned for its award-winning wines, is looking for an experienced and dedicated Farm Manager to oversee their viticulture operations in Cape Town, Western Cape . This is a hands‑on role that requires a passion for winemaking, a deep understanding of grape cultivation, and a commitment to sustainable farming practices. The successful candidate will be responsible for the day‑to‑day management of the vineyards, ensuring the highest quality of grapes are produced for our client’s esteemed wine portfolio. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to work within a beautiful setting and contribute to the legacy of a top‑tier wine producer. The role involves direct supervision of vineyard staff and meticulous attention to detail across all aspects of vineyard management.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of vineyard operations, from planting and pruning to harvesting.
• Implement and monitor sustainable viticulture practices to enhance soil health and vine productivity.
• Oversee irrigation systems, nutrient management, and pest and disease control programs.
• Supervise, train, and manage a team of vineyard workers, ensuring efficient workflow and adherence to safety standards.
• Conduct regular vineyard inspections to assess vine health, grape quality, and potential issues.
• Collaborate with the winemaker to ensure grape quality meets specific varietal and stylistic requirements.
• Manage vineyard budgets, resource allocation, and inventory of supplies.
• Maintain accurate records of vineyard activities, yields, and inputs.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental regulations and agricultural best practices.

Requirements

• A degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of proven experience in vineyard management, preferably within the Western Cape wine region.
• In-depth knowledge of grape varietals, soil types, climate impacts, and winemaking requirements.
• Strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to motivate and guide a diverse team.
• Hands‑on experience with irrigation systems, pest and disease management, and pruning techniques.
• Familiarity with sustainable and organic farming practices in viticulture.
• Excellent organizational and planning abilities, with a keen eye for detail.
• Proficiency in farm management software and standard office applications.
• A valid driver's license and ability to work flexible hours, including during peak harvest seasons.

Benefits

• This position includes a competitive salary, on‑site accommodation, access to the estate's amenities, a contribution towards medical aid and a pension fund, and a performance‑based bonus.
• Our client offers a supportive and professional working environment where dedication and expertise are highly valued.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth within the company are available.
• This is a chance to become an integral part of a renowned wine‑producing establishment in Cape Town .