Farm Manager - Viticulture Operations

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance coverage

Wine benefits or discounts

Performance-related bonuses

Career growth potential within the win

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Farm Manager for a prestigious wine estate. The role combines hands-on vineyard oversight with strategic planning to optimize grape production and quality, while leading a dedicated team in a hybrid on-site/off-site setting.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in viticulture, deep knowledge of grape varietals, soil science, irrigation, and pest management, and strong leadership and communication skills to drive sustainable farming practices.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of vineyard management experience with viticulture focus.
• Knowledge of grape varietals, rootstocks, and cultivation requirements.
• Experience in pest and disease management in vineyards.
• Understanding of soil science and irrigation techniques for viticulture.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills; able to work in field and office.

Responsibilities

• Oversee planting, pruning, trellising, canopy management, and irrigation.
• Develop seasonal vineyard management plans to optimize yield and quality.
• Monitor vine health and manage pests, diseases, and weed control.
• Plan labor and ensure adherence to schedules.
• Collaborate with winemaking team on grape maturity and harvest scheduling.
• Maintain records of vineyard operations and health data.
• Lead and train vineyard staff; promote a productive work environment.
• Uphold sustainable vineyard practices and safety regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Organizational skills

Communication

Viticulture knowledge

Pest & disease management

Irrigation expertise

Team supervision

Education

Bachelor's degree in Viticulture/Horticulture/Agronomy

Tools

Vineyard machinery

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious wine estate, is seeking an experienced Farm Manager to oversee their extensive viticulture operations. This role is crucial for ensuring the highest quality of grape production, managing vineyard resources efficiently, and leading a dedicated team. You will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the vineyards, implementing best practices in grape cultivation, and working closely with the winemaking team to achieve optimal wine quality. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of viticulture, vineyard management techniques, and a passion for producing exceptional wine grapes. This hybrid position requires a balance of on-site supervision and strategic planning. You will be instrumental in maintaining the estate's reputation for excellence and contributing to its continued success. The role involves hands-on management, ensuring vineyard health, yield optimization, and adherence to quality standards. Your leadership will guide the vineyard team towards achieving ambitious production goals while upholding sustainable farming principles.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all vineyard activities, including planting, pruning, trellising, canopy management, and irrigation.
• Develop and implement seasonal vineyard management plans to optimize grape yield and quality.
• Monitor vine health, identify and manage pests, diseases, and weed control.
• Oversee soil fertility management and implement appropriate fertilization programs.
• Plan and manage vineyard labor, ensuring efficient task completion and adherence to schedules.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with the winemaking team on grape maturity monitoring and harvest scheduling.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard operations, inputs, yields, and vineyard health data.
• Supervise and train vineyard staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Contribute to the implementation of sustainable vineyard practices.

Requirements

• Degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agronomy, or a related agricultural science.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in vineyard management, with a strong focus on viticulture.
• Proven knowledge of grape varietals, rootstocks, and their specific cultivation requirements.
• Experience in pest and disease management in vineyards.
• Understanding of soil science and irrigation techniques relevant to viticulture.
• Familiarity with vineyard machinery and equipment.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in both field and office settings.
• Passion for wine and grape production.
• Valid driver's license.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of R .
• Performance-related bonuses.
• Health insurance coverage.
• Wine benefits or discounts.
• Opportunities for professional development and training in viticulture.
• Work in a beautiful vineyard environment.
• Supportive team and management structure.
• Career growth potential within the wine industry.