Horticulturist - Commercial Vineyards

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 620,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company vehicle

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Horticulturist to lead commercial vineyard operations in the KwaZulu-Natal region near Durban. You will oversee soil management, vine nutrition, irrigation and canopy control to optimize grape quality for premium wines.

Working closely with the winemaking team, you will implement IPM strategies, monitor vine health, and guide staff to ensure sustainable production. A strong background in viticulture and climate-aware practices is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Viticulture, Plant Science, or related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years hands-on experience in commercial vineyard management.
• Knowledge of grape varietals, vine physiology, and vineyard pests/diseases.
• Experience with irrigation systems, soil analysis, and nutrient management.
• Familiarity with vineyard technology and precision agriculture tools.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities to manage vineyard staff.
• Understanding of wine production processes and quality requirements.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Familiarity with KwaZulu-Natal climate and soils is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive vineyard management plans, including planting, pruning, trellising, and canopy management.
• Monitor vine health, soil conditions, and water requirements, implementing appropriate irrigation and fertilization strategies.
• Identify and manage pests, diseases, and weeds using IPM principles and sustainable methods.
• Oversee the application of fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
• Conduct regular vineyard inspections and data collection to track growth, yield, and grape quality parameters.
• Collaborate with the vineyard team and viticulture consultants to ensure optimal vineyard performance.
• Manage vineyard resources, including labor, equipment, and supplies, ensuring efficient utilization.
• Stay current with the latest research and advancements in viticulture and horticulture.
• Contribute to strategic decisions regarding vineyard expansion, varietal selection, and vineyard redevelopment near Durban.
• Ensure adherence to quality standards throughout the grape growing cycle for optimal wine production.

Skills

Vineyard management

Irrigation systems

Soil analysis

Pest & disease control

Viticulture knowledge

Lead & manage staff

Data analysis

Communication skills

Wine production knowledge

Climate & soil familiarity

Education

Bachelor's degree in Horticulture/Viticulture

Tools

Precision agriculture tools

Irrigation technology

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned wine estate nestled in the picturesque KwaZulu-Natal region, is seeking an innovative and dedicated Horticulturist specializing in commercial vineyards. This role is integral to maintaining and enhancing the quality and yield of our client's premium grape production. Based near Durban , you will be responsible for the meticulous care of the vineyards, from soil management and vine nutrition to pest and disease control, ultimately ensuring the production of high-quality grapes for world-class wines. This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled professional to apply their expertise in a renowned viticultural area, contributing to a legacy of excellence. The position requires a blend of scientific knowledge, practical application, and a passion for viticulture. You will work closely with the winemaking team to understand their needs and optimize grape quality throughout the growing season. Our client is committed to sustainable practices and cutting-edge horticultural techniques.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive vineyard management plans, including planting, pruning, trellising, and canopy management.
• Monitor vine health, soil conditions, and water requirements, implementing appropriate irrigation and fertilization strategies.
• Identify and manage pests, diseases, and weeds using integrated pest management (IPM) principles and sustainable methods.
• Oversee the application of fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
• Conduct regular vineyard inspections and data collection to track growth, yield, and grape quality parameters.
• Collaborate with the vineyard team and viticulture consultants to ensure optimal vineyard performance.
• Manage vineyard resources, including labor, equipment, and supplies, ensuring efficient utilization.
• Stay current with the latest research and advancements in viticulture and horticulture.
• Contribute to strategic decisions regarding vineyard expansion, varietal selection, and vineyard redevelopment near Durban .
• Ensure adherence to quality standards throughout the grape growing cycle for optimal wine production.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Viticulture, Plant Science, or a related agricultural discipline.
• A minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in commercial vineyard management.
• In-depth knowledge of grape varietals, vine physiology, and vineyard pests/diseases.
• Experience with irrigation systems, soil analysis, and nutrient management.
• Proficiency in vineyard technology, including precision agriculture tools, is advantageous.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities to manage vineyard staff effectively.
• Understanding of wine production processes and quality requirements.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a vineyard environment.
• Familiarity with the specific climate and soil types found in the KwaZulu-Natal region is beneficial.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including health insurance and a retirement savings plan. Employees are provided with opportunities for professional development, including specialized training courses and attendance at industry conferences. This role offers the chance to work in a beautiful setting near Durban , contributing to the production of award-winning wines. A company vehicle is provided for site visits and work-related travel. We foster a culture of innovation and dedication to quality in viticulture.