Farm Manager - Viticulture Specialist

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 520,000 - 760,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company vehicle

Accommodation assistance

Generous annual leave

Access to premium winemaking facility

Industry networking

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly skilled Farm Manager (Viticulture) to oversee all vineyard operations in George, Western Cape. You will lead pruning, canopy management, irrigation, pest control, harvest logistics, and ensure premium grape quality for winemaking.

You will manage a team of vineyard workers, implement sustainable farming practices, monitor weather and soil conditions, and maintain records for financial and operational analysis, reporting to senior management.

Qualifications

• Degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agriculture, or related field.
• 5+ years vineyard management experience with viticulture focus.
• Knowledge of grape varietals, soils, and climate effects on wine quality.
• Experience with irrigation, pest/disease management, and harvest logistics.
• Proficient in farm management software and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute annual vineyard management plans, including pruning, canopy management, and pest control strategies.
• Oversee all viticulture operations, ensuring optimal vine health, yield, and grape quality standards are met.
• Manage vineyard staff, including recruitment, training, scheduling, and performance supervision.
• Implement sustainable farming practices to enhance soil health and minimize environmental impact.
• Monitor weather patterns and soil conditions, adapting management strategies as needed.
• Maintain accurate records of vineyard activities, inputs, and yields for financial and operational analysis.

Skills

Leadership

Organizational skills

Decision making

Data analysis

Education

Degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agriculture, or related field

Tools

Farm management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled and results-oriented Farm Manager with a specialization in viticulture to oversee operations in the picturesque region of George . This leadership position is critical for managing all aspects of vineyard operations, from planting and vine care to harvesting and quality control, ensuring the production of premium grapes for winemaking. You will be responsible for optimizing vineyard health, productivity, and sustainability, while managing a dedicated team of vineyard workers and agricultural staff. This role offers the chance to work with renowned vineyards and contribute to the reputation of the local wine industry, within a company that prides itself on quality and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute annual vineyard management plans, including pruning, canopy management, and pest control strategies.


• Oversee all viticulture operations, ensuring optimal vine health, yield, and grape quality standards are met.


• Manage vineyard staff, including recruitment, training, scheduling, and performance supervision.


• Implement sustainable farming practices to enhance soil health and minimize environmental impact.


• Monitor weather patterns and soil conditions, adapting management strategies as needed.


• Maintain accurate records of vineyard activities, inputs, and yields for financial and operational analysis.

Requirements

• Degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agriculture, or a related field.


• At least 5 years of experience in vineyard management, with a strong focus on viticulture.


• Demonstrated knowledge of grape varietals, soil types, and climate impacts on wine quality.


• Experience with vineyard irrigation systems, pest/disease management, and harvesting logistics.


• Proficiency in farm management software and data analysis for operational efficiency.


• Strong leadership, organizational, and decision-making skills.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.


• Performance bonuses tied to vineyard yield and quality metrics.


• Company vehicle and accommodation assistance.


• Generous annual leave and sick leave provisions.


• Access to premium winemaking facilities and opportunities for industry networking in George .