Horticulturist - Vineyard Operations

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Housing stipend

Vineyard tech access

Annual leave

Study leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Horticulturist to join a renowned vineyard operation near Cape Town. The role focuses on cultivation, health, and productivity of grapevines to support high-quality wine grapes.

You will implement best viticulture practices, manage vineyard resources, and collaborate with winemakers. The position offers accommodation options and opportunities to work with cutting-edge vineyard technology.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Viticulture, Agronomy, or related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in viticulture or commercial horticulture.
• Strong knowledge of grapevine physiology, soil science, and pest/disease management.
• Experience with vineyard management software and data analysis is a plus.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team in an outdoor environment.
• Excellent observational skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of vineyard care, including soil health, irrigation, pruning, and canopy management.
• Monitor grapevines for pests, diseases, and nutritional deficiencies, implementing appropriate treatments.
• Conduct soil and tissue analysis to inform fertilization and irrigation strategies.
• Oversee seasonal vineyard activities, such as budding, flowering, veraison, and harvesting.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, yields, and grape quality.
• Collaborate with the winemaking team to ensure optimal grape maturity and quality for production.

Skills

Grapevine physiology

Soil science

Pest management

Disease management

Data analysis

Teamwork

Independent work

Observation skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Viticulture, Agronomy, or a related field

Tools

Vineyard management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a skilled Horticulturist to join their renowned vineyard operation near Cape Town . This role focuses on the cultivation, health, and productivity of grapevines, playing a crucial part in producing high-quality wine grapes. You will be responsible for implementing best practices in viticulture, managing vineyard resources, and contributing to the overall success of the winery. This position offers a fantastic opportunity for a passionate horticulturalist to work in a beautiful setting, applying scientific knowledge to the art of winemaking, and contributing to a legacy of excellence in the Western Cape wine region, collaborating with a dedicated team of viticulturists and winemakers.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of vineyard care, including soil health, irrigation, pruning, and canopy management.
• Monitor grapevines for pests, diseases, and nutritional deficiencies, implementing appropriate treatments.
• Conduct soil and tissue analysis to inform fertilization and irrigation strategies.
• Oversee seasonal vineyard activities, such as budding, flowering, veraison, and harvesting.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, yields, and grape quality.
• Collaborate with the winemaking team to ensure optimal grape maturity and quality for production.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Viticulture, Agronomy, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in viticulture or commercial horticulture.
• Strong knowledge of grapevine physiology, soil science, and pest/disease management.
• Experience with vineyard management software and data analysis is a plus.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team in an outdoor environment.
• Excellent observational skills and attention to detail.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Accommodation options available or a housing stipend.
• Access to cutting-edge vineyard technology and research.
• Generous annual leave and study leave for professional development.
• Immersive experience within a leading wine-producing estate.