Horticulturalist - Viticulture Specialist

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 350,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Professional development

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Horticulturalist with a Viticulture specialization in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This hybrid role combines hands-on vineyard duties with planning and analysis in the office.

You will manage grape cultivation, canopy management, soil health, IPM, and harvest planning, collaborating with the winemaking team to ensure high-quality grapes for production.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years hands-on viticulture or vineyard management experience
• Strong knowledge of grapevine physiology and vineyard establishment techniques
• Familiarity with soil science, irrigation, and integrated pest management (IPM)
• Experience with vineyard equipment is a plus
• Willingness to work hybrid schedule and adapt to peak seasons

Responsibilities

• Manage vineyard operations including planting, pruning, trellising and irrigation
• Implement sustainable viticulture practices to enhance grape quality
• Monitor vineyard health, pests and diseases and implement control strategies
• Conduct soil and tissue analysis to optimize fertilization
• Manage canopy development for optimal sunlight and air circulation
• Oversee grape harvesting for timely collection
• Collaborate with winemaking team on grape quality and harvest timing
• Maintain records of vineyard activities, yields, and resource usage
• Operate and maintain vineyard equipment and machinery
• Stay current with viticulture and enology research

Skills

Observational skills

Staff management

Record-keeping

Analytical mindset

Hybrid work adaptability

Education

Bachelor's degree in Horticulture or Viticulture

Tools

Vineyard mapping tools

Precision viticulture tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned producer of fine wines, is seeking a skilled and passionate Horticulturalist with a specialization in Viticulture . This hybrid role is based in the picturesque wine-growing region of Mossel Bay, Western Cape, ZA , offering a unique blend of hands-on vineyard management and strategic planning. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of grape cultivation, from vineyard establishment and soil management to canopy management, pest control, and harvesting. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of grapevine physiology, soil science, and the specific challenges and opportunities of viticulture in the Western Cape. This position requires a hands-on approach, combined with excellent observational and analytical skills to ensure the production of high-quality grapes for winemaking. You will work closely with the winemaking team to align vineyard practices with desired wine profiles, contributing significantly to the final product's excellence. The hybrid nature of this role allows for focused time in the vineyards and in the office for planning and analysis.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage vineyard operations, including planting, pruning, trellising, and irrigation.
• Implement sustainable viticulture practices to enhance grape quality and minimize environmental impact.
• Monitor vineyard health, identify pests and diseases, and implement effective control strategies.
• Conduct soil and tissue analysis to determine nutrient requirements and optimize fertilization.
• Manage canopy development to ensure optimal sunlight exposure and air circulation.
• Oversee grape harvesting operations, ensuring timely and efficient collection of fruit.
• Collaborate with the winemaking team on grape quality assessment and harvest timing decisions.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, crop yields, and resource usage.
• Operate and maintain vineyard equipment and machinery.
• Stay current with research and advancements in viticulture and enology.

Requirements

• Degree in Horticulture, Viticulture, Plant Science, Agriculture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of hands-on experience in viticulture or vineyard management.
• Strong knowledge of grapevine physiology, grape varietals, and vineyard establishment techniques.
• Familiarity with soil science, irrigation systems, and integrated pest management (IPM).
• Experience with vineyard mapping and precision viticulture tools is a plus.
• Excellent observational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage and motivate vineyard staff.
• Proficiency in record-keeping and basic computer skills.
• A passion for wine and a commitment to producing high-quality grapes.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, especially during peak seasons, and adapt to a hybrid work schedule.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Health and wellness benefits package.
• Access to high-quality wines and vineyard experiences.
• Opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement.
• Paid time off and holiday leave.
• Work in a beautiful and world-renowned wine-producing region.
• Potential for growth within the company's wine portfolio.