Farm Manager - Viticulture & Orchards Specialist

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Farm Manager specialized in viticulture and orchards to lead operations in Upington, Northern Cape. You will manage vineyards, fruit orchards, irrigation, IPM, canopy management, harvesting, and post-harvest handling, with a strong emphasis on water efficiency and sustainable farming.

A proven agricultural leadership track record is essential. You will oversee staff, budgets, records, and compliance, while collaborating with agronomists and marketing teams to

Qualifications

• 6+ years of farm management experience in viticulture or fruit orchards.
• Strong knowledge of grape cultivation, planting, irrigation, pest management and harvesting.

Responsibilities

• Oversee vineyards and orchards operations and harvesting.
• Develop planting and crop management plans for grape varietals and fruit types.
• Manage irrigation systems with water conservation in arid climates.
• Implement IPM programs to protect crops.
• Lead canopy management and pruning for quality and yield.
• Supervise farm staff: recruitment, training, scheduling, performance.
• Oversee farm machinery operations and maintenance.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and ensure profitability.
• Maintain records of planting, yields, inputs, labor and finances.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with agronomists, viticulturists and marketing teams.

Skills

Farm management

Viticulture

Irrigation management

Team leadership

Budgeting

IPM

Record keeping

Education

Degree/diploma in Agriculture/Horticulture/Viticulture

Tools

Farm management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a seasoned Farm Manager with specialization in viticulture and orchards to lead their operations in the fertile region of **Upington, Northern Cape**. This pivotal role involves the comprehensive management of vineyards and fruit orchards, focusing on maximizing yield, quality, and profitability. The Farm Manager will oversee all aspects of cultivation, from land preparation and planting to irrigation, pest control, canopy management, harvesting, and post-harvest handling. A strong emphasis will be placed on implementing efficient water management strategies, given the **Northern Cape** climate, and adopting sustainable farming practices. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of grape varietals and fruit production, coupled with robust management skills and a proven track record in agricultural leadership. Join our client in **Upington** and play a crucial role in the success of their diverse agricultural portfolio. Our client is committed to excellence and innovation in the agricultural sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of vineyards and fruit orchards, ensuring efficient cultivation and harvesting.
• Develop and implement strategic planting and crop management plans for various grape varietals and fruit types.
• Manage irrigation systems, focusing on water conservation and optimal delivery for crop needs in the Northern Cape environment.
• Implement integrated pest and disease management (IPM) programs to protect crops.
• Manage canopy management and pruning techniques to optimize fruit quality and yield.
• Supervise and manage farm staff, including recruitment, training, scheduling, and performance evaluation.
• Oversee farm machinery and equipment operations and maintenance.
• Manage farm budgets, control costs, and ensure operational profitability.
• Maintain accurate records of planting, yields, inputs, labor, and financial activities.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with agronomists, viticulturists, and marketing teams to ensure quality standards and market alignment.

Requirements

• A degree or diploma in Agriculture, Horticulture, Viticulture, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in farm management, with a specific focus on viticulture and/or fruit orchards.
• In-depth knowledge of grape and fruit cultivation, including planting, irrigation, pest management, and harvesting techniques.
• Experience with water management and irrigation technologies suitable for arid or semi-arid climates like the Northern Cape.
• Proven ability to lead and manage a diverse team of farm workers.
• Experience in farm budgeting and financial management.
• Proficiency in farm management software and record-keeping.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities.
• A valid driver's license is required for this role based in Upington, Northern Cape.
• Commitment to sustainable agricultural practices.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid and retirement fund contributions.

This role presents a significant opportunity to manage diverse agricultural operations in a key growing region, contributing to the local economy and agricultural output.

Enjoy working in the unique climate and landscape of **Upington**, **Northern Cape**, with opportunities for professional growth and development.

Join a company dedicated to agricultural innovation and operational excellence.