Horticulturist - Viticulture Focus

Placements24; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 550,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based incentives

Access to advanced vineyard technology

Professional development workshops

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Horticulturist with a viticulture focus to manage and enhance vineyard operations in Centurion, Gauteng. You will oversee soil preparation, planting, canopy management, irrigation, pest control, and harvest activities, aligning with climate and sustainable practices for optimal yield and grape quality.

The role requires 4+ years in vineyard management, knowledge of grape varietals, irrigation, soil management, and leadership of vineyard staff.

Qualifications

• Degree in Horticulture, Viticulture, Agronomy, or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all vineyard operations, including pruning, trellising, irrigation, and fertilization programs.
• Monitor grape development, vine health, and maturity levels to determine optimal harvest times.
• Implement integrated pest and disease management strategies to protect the vineyard.
• Conduct soil and tissue analysis to inform nutrient management and soil amendment decisions.
• Manage vineyard staff, ensuring efficient workflow and adherence to best practices.
• Research and adopt innovative viticulture techniques to improve grape quality and yield.

Skills

Vineyard management

Team leadership

Pest & disease knowledge

Sustainable farming practices

Education

Degree in Horticulture/Viticulture/Agronomy

Tools

Irrigation systems

Soil management

Canopy manipulation

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a skilled Horticulturist with a specialized focus on viticulture to manage and enhance their vineyard operations in Centurion, Gauteng . This position is crucial for ensuring the production of high-quality grapes for wine and table consumption. You will be responsible for all aspects of vineyard management, from soil preparation and planting to canopy management, pest control, and harvesting. The role demands a deep understanding of grape varietals, climate impacts, and sustainable viticultural practices to optimize yield and grape quality within the unique conditions of the Gauteng region.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all vineyard operations, including pruning, trellising, irrigation, and fertilization programs.
• Monitor grape development, vine health , and maturity levels to determine optimal harvest times.
• Implement integrated pest and disease management strategies to protect the vineyard from threats.
• Conduct soil and tissue analysis to inform nutrient management and soil amendment decisions.
• Manage vineyard staff, ensuring efficient workflow and adherence to best practices.
• Research and adopt innovative viticulture techniques to improve grape quality and yield, adapting to local microclimates in Centurion .

Requirements

• Degree in Horticulture, Viticulture, Agronomy, or a related field.
• At least 4 years of hands-on experience in vineyard management, with a strong emphasis on grape cultivation.
• In-depth knowledge of different grape varietals, their growing requirements, and disease susceptibility.
• Experience with irrigation systems, soil management, and canopy manipulation techniques.
• Ability to lead and motivate a team of vineyard workers effectively.
• Familiarity with sustainable and organic farming principles in viticulture.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
• Performance-based incentives tied to grape yield and quality.
• Opportunity to work with premium grape varietals.
• Access to advanced vineyard technology and equipment.
• Contribution towards professional development and industry workshops.