Farm Operations Manager - Viticulture Focus

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid contributions

Provident fund

Performance-related bonuses

Accommodation may be available

Job summary

Placements24 has a premier vineyard and winery operation in the Free State seeking an experienced Farm Operations Manager to oversee viticulture and farm management on-site.

You will lead vineyard health, irrigation, pest and disease control, harvesting logistics and staff supervision while maintaining high-quality grape production and sustainable practices for a renowned wine estate.

Qualifications

• Degree or higher in viticulture, horticulture, or agricultural science.
• Minimum 5 years in vineyard management or high-value crop farming.
• Strong leadership, communication and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all vineyard operations including planting, pruning, canopy management, irrigation, and pest/disease control.
• Oversee grape harvesting planning and execution for quality.
• Manage farm equipment maintenance and ensure operational readiness.
• Supervise, train and motivate vineyard workers and seasonal staff.
• Implement sustainable farming practices and environmental stewardship.
• Manage budgets for vineyard operations (labour, materials, equipment).
• Maintain records of vineyard activities, yields and inputs.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with winemakers to meet winery specifications.
• Monitor weather and implement frost, drought or heat risk strategies.

Skills

Viticulture knowledge

Staff supervision

Budget management

Irrigation systems

Pest & disease control

Education

Bachelor's degree in Viticulture/Horticulture/Agricultural Science

Tools

Farm management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier vineyard and winery operation in the scenic Welkom, Free State, is seeking an experienced and dedicated Farm Operations Manager to oversee all aspects of their viticulture and farm management. This role is crucial for ensuring the highest quality grape production and efficient operational execution. The successful candidate will manage vineyard health, irrigation systems, pest and disease control, harvesting logistics, and staff supervision. A deep understanding of viticulture, soil management, and vineyard maintenance is essential. This is an on-site position, requiring a hands-on approach and strong leadership presence within the Free State agricultural community. The role offers the opportunity to work with premium grape varietals and contribute directly to the success of a renowned wine estate, maintaining the highest standards of quality and sustainability. We are looking for an individual committed to excellence in agricultural land management.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all vineyard operations, including planting, pruning, canopy management, irrigation, and pest/disease control.
• Oversee the planning and execution of grape harvesting, ensuring optimal timing and quality.
• Manage farm equipment maintenance and ensure operational readiness.
• Supervise, train, and motivate a team of vineyard workers and seasonal staff.
• Implement and monitor sustainable farming practices to ensure environmental stewardship.
• Manage budgets for vineyard operations, including labor, materials, and equipment.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, crop yields, and input usage.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with winemakers to ensure grape quality meets winery specifications.
• Monitor weather patterns and implement strategies to mitigate risks from frost, drought, or extreme heat.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in vineyard management or high-value crop farming.
• Strong knowledge of viticulture, including grape varietal characteristics, soil science, and irrigation techniques.
• Proven experience in managing farm operations, including staff supervision, budget management, and equipment maintenance.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a physically demanding outdoor environment.
• Proficiency in farm management software and record-keeping.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to work flexible hours, including during harvest season.
• Passion for wine and a commitment to producing high-quality grapes.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience, and includes benefits such as medical aid contributions, a provident fund, and performance-related bonuses.
• Accommodation may be available.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a passionate agricultural professional to make a significant impact in the heart of the Free State wine region.