Horticultural Specialist - Viticulture

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 600.000 - 1.000.000; Vollzeit

Benefits dieser Stelle

Competitive salary with performance-bk

Private medical insurance

Retirement fund

Housing options near Rustenburg

Training and conferences

Zusammenfassung

Placements24 is seeking a dedicated Horticultural Specialist with a focus on viticulture for a renowned estate near Rustenburg, North West. You will oversee vineyard operations from pruning to harvest, ensuring top-quality grapes for premium wine production and collaborating with the winemaking team.

The role requires a BSc or higher in Viticulture or related field and at least four years in vineyard management, with strong soil, irrigation, and IPM knowledge.

Qualifikationen

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Viticulture, Horticulture, Plant Science, or a related agricultural field.
• At least 4 years of practical experience in vineyard management, with understanding of grape varietals.

Aufgaben

• Oversee all vineyard operations to optimize grape quality and yield.
• Manage soil health and vine nutrition programs with sampling and fertilization.
• Implement IPM strategies and monitor pests/diseases with treatments as needed.
• Develop and manage irrigation schedules based on vine needs and conditions.
• Conduct vineyard walks to assess vine health and fruit development.
• Supervise vineyard staff and provide training on best practices.
• Collaborate with winemaking team on harvest timing and grape quality.
• Research and implement innovative viticultural techniques for quality and sustainability.

Ausbildung

Bachelor's degree or higher in Viticulture, Horticulture, Plant Science, or related field

4+ years vineyard management experience

Jobbeschreibung

About the Role

Our client, a renowned viticulture estate situated near Rustenburg, North West , is looking for a dedicated and expert Horticultural Specialist with a focus on viticulture. This role is critical for maintaining and enhancing the quality of grapes for premium wine production. The specialist will be responsible for all aspects of vineyard management, from soil health and vine nutrition to canopy management and pest control. We are seeking a professional with a keen eye for detail, a passion for viticulture, and a commitment to sustainable and organic farming practices. The successful candidate will work closely with the winemaking team to ensure the highest quality fruit is produced, contributing directly to the estate's esteemed reputation. This position offers a unique blend of hands-on field work and strategic planning within the beautiful agricultural landscape of the North West province.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all vineyard operations, including pruning, trellising, shoot thinning, and cluster thinning to optimize grape quality and yield.
• Manage soil health and vine nutrition programs, including soil sampling, analysis, and targeted fertilization.
• Implement integrated pest and disease management (IPM) strategies, monitoring vineyards for pests and diseases and applying appropriate treatments.
• Develop and manage irrigation schedules based on vine needs and environmental conditions.
• Conduct regular vineyard walks to assess vine health, fruit development, and identify potential issues.
• Supervise vineyard staff, providing training and guidance on best practices.
• Collaborate with the winemaking team on harvest timing and grape quality assessment.
• Research and implement innovative viticultural techniques to improve wine quality and vineyard sustainability.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree or higher in Viticulture, Horticulture, Plant Science, or a related agricultural field.
• At least 4 years of practical experience in vineyard management, with a strong understanding of grape varietals and their specific needs.
• Knowledge of soil science, entomology, plant pathology, and irrigation systems relevant to viticulture.
• Experience with both conventional and sustainable/organic farming practices is highly desirable.
• Ability to work effectively in both field and office settings, with some hybrid flexibility.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to manage a team effectively.
• Familiarity with the climate and soil types of the North West region is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive salary, complemented by a performance bonus structure.
• Private medical insurance.
• A retirement fund.
• Subsidized housing options in the vicinity of Rustenburg.
• Employees are encouraged to participate in industry conferences and training programs to enhance their skills.
• This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to a prestigious agricultural estate and develop your career in the specialized field of viticulture within the scenic North West.