Horticultural Manager - Viticulture Specialist

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,350,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-site accommodation

Housing allowance

Job summary

Placements24 invites a skilled Horticultural Manager with a Viticulture focus to lead vineyard operations near Mossel Bay, Western Cape. The role requires strategic vineyard oversight, staff leadership, and a commitment to premium grape quality.

You will implement plans, monitor health and soil, and work closely with the winery team to ensure grape specifications for winemaking. A proactive, hands-on leader with six years of experience is ideal.

Qualifications

• Requires a degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agronomy, Plant Science, or related field.
• Minimum 6 years of progressive vineyard management experience with emphasis on viticulture.
• Knowledge of grape varietals and their cultivation needs.
• Strong pest/disease management, irrigation, and soil health understanding.
• Proven leadership and communication skills; ability to manage a vineyard team.
• Experience with farm management software and standard office apps.
• Commitment to sustainable and environmentally sound practices.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all vineyard operations: planting, pruning, training, canopy management, and harvesting.
• Develop annual vineyard management plans including irrigation, fertilization, and pest/disease control.
• Lead and supervise vineyard workers; allocate tasks and ensure quality.
• Monitor vineyard health, soil conditions, and grape development; intervene as needed.
• Promote sustainable viticultural practices and efficient resource use.
• Manage inputs such as water and fertilizers to optimize efficiency.
• Maintain vineyard equipment and machinery; ensure safety and compliance.
• Ensure health, safety, and environmental regulations are met.
• Collaborate with winery team to meet winemaking grape quality specs.
• Maintain records of activities, yields, and quality assessments.
• Stay updated on viticulture research and innovations.
• Contribute to expansion and replanting strategies.

Skills

Viticulture expertise

Leadership

Irrigation management

Pest & disease management

Soil health knowledge

Communication

Farm management software

Education

Bachelor's degree in Viticulture or related field

Tools

Farm management software

Office applications

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned vineyard and winery estate, is seeking a highly skilled and passionate Horticultural Manager with a specialization in Viticulture to lead their vineyard operations near Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This critical role involves overseeing all aspects of grape cultivation, from vineyard establishment and management to harvesting, ensuring the production of premium quality grapes. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of viticultural practices, soil science, pest and disease management, and irrigation systems specific to the Western Cape climate. You will manage a dedicated vineyard team, implement sustainable practices, and drive operational efficiency to maximize grape yield and quality. This is a hands-on, leadership position within a prestigious agricultural enterprise, offering a unique opportunity to shape the future of their renowned wines. The role demands a strategic approach to vineyard management, coupled with meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to excellence. You will be responsible for ensuring the long-term health and productivity of the vineyards, contributing significantly to the estate's reputation and success. The focus will be on adopting innovative techniques to enhance grape quality and resilience.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of vineyard operations, including planting, pruning, training, canopy management, and harvesting.
• Develop and implement annual vineyard management plans, including irrigation schedules, fertilization programs, and pest/disease control strategies.
• Supervise and lead a team of vineyard workers, ensuring efficient task allocation and high-quality execution.
• Monitor vineyard health, soil conditions, and grape development, making timely interventions as needed.
• Implement and promote sustainable and organic viticultural practices.
• Manage vineyard resources, including water, fertilizers, and other inputs, to optimize efficiency and minimize waste.
• Oversee the maintenance and operation of vineyard equipment and machinery.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with the winery team to ensure grape quality meets the specific requirements for winemaking.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, yield data, and quality assessments.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements and research in viticulture and enology.
• Contribute to vineyard expansion and replanting strategies.

Requirements

• A degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agronomy, Plant Science, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in vineyard management, with a strong emphasis on viticulture.
• Proven expertise in managing grapevines, including knowledge of different varietals and their specific cultivation needs.
• In-depth understanding of pest and disease management, irrigation techniques, and soil health in viticultural contexts.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in farm management software and standard office applications.
• A strong commitment to sustainable and environmentally sound agricultural practices.
• Ability to work effectively in outdoor conditions and potentially challenging weather.
• A valid driver's license is essential.
• Practical knowledge of vineyard equipment and machinery operation and maintenance.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to vineyard challenges.

Benefits

• This position offers an attractive salary package, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• You will work in a beautiful and productive vineyard environment with access to modern equipment and resources.
• Opportunities for professional development, including specialized viticulture courses and industry workshops, are provided.
• On-site accommodation or a housing allowance may be available.
• Enjoy a dynamic role where you can directly influence the quality of award-winning wines and contribute to a legacy brand.
• This role is integral to the estate’s operations and offers significant career growth within the premium wine industry.