Horticulturalist - Viticulture Specialist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Premium vineyard access

Health benefits

Retirement planning assistance

International industry exposure

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly specialized Horticulturalist with Viticulture expertise for our renowned vineyard operations in the Pretoria region. You will lead all aspects of grape cultivation, establish vineyards, and drive practices that maximize yield and quality in Gauteng’s climate.

In this role you will monitor vine health, manage pest and disease control, irrigation, and nutrition, and collaborate with the winemaking team to align grape quality with style.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Viticulture, Plant Science, or related field.
• Minimum 6 years of hands-on viticulture experience.
• Deep knowledge of grape physiology, disease management, and sustainable vineyard practices.
• Experience with vineyard mapping, soil analysis, and irrigation systems.
• Familiarity with Pretoria terroir and regional challenges.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily vineyard operations and best viticulture practices.
• Manage grape vine health, pest and disease control, irrigation, and nutrition.
• Plan vineyard development: planting, trellising, pruning.
• Monitor sugar, acidity, and phenolic ripeness during season.
• Collaborate with winemaking to align grape quality with styles.
• Maintain records of activities, yields, and inputs.

Skills

Viticulture

Grape cultivation

Vineyard management

Pest control

Irrigation management

Soil analysis

Terroir knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Horticulture

Viticulture / Plant Science degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly specialized Horticulturalist with expertise in Viticulture to join their renowned vineyard operations in the Pretoria region. This role is essential for managing all aspects of grape cultivation, from vineyard establishment and management to ensuring optimal fruit quality for wine production. You will apply advanced horticultural techniques, monitor vineyard health, and implement strategies to maximize yield and grape quality in the specific climate of Gauteng . This is a unique opportunity for a passionate viticulturist to contribute to the legacy of a distinguished winery and drive excellence in grape growing.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of the vineyards, ensuring best practices in viticulture are implemented and maintained.
• Manage all aspects of grape vine health, including pest and disease control, irrigation, and nutrient management.
• Plan and execute vineyard development, including planting, trellising, and pruning strategies.
• Monitor grape development throughout the season, assessing sugar levels, acidity, and phenolic ripeness.
• Collaborate with the winemaking team to align grape quality with desired wine styles.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, yields, and inputs for analysis and reporting.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Viticulture, Plant Science, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of hands-on experience in viticulture, with a strong understanding of grape cultivation.
• In-depth knowledge of grape vine physiology, disease management, and sustainable vineyard practices.
• Experience with vineyard mapping, soil analysis, and irrigation management systems.
• Familiarity with the unique challenges and opportunities of viticulture in the Pretoria region and its specific terroir.
• Strong observational skills and attention to detail, essential for monitoring vine health and grape maturity.

Benefits

• A competitive annual salary and potential for bonuses based on vineyard performance.
• Access to a premium vineyard and state-of-the-art facilities.
• Opportunity to work with a highly respected brand in the wine industry.
• Comprehensive health benefits and retirement planning assistance.
• Potential for international exposure through industry events and collaborations.