Lead Agronomist - Viticulture Specialist

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and retirement benefits

Wine discounts

Accommodation options

Professional development opportunities

Housing allowance

Job summary

Placements24 represents a prestigious vineyard and wine estate in the Cape Town region. They seek a Lead Agronomist with advanced viticulture expertise to manage the estate's vineyard operations and drive high-quality grape production on site.

The candidate will lead a team, collaborate with winemaking, and implement cutting-edge practices to enhance vine health, grape quality, and sustainable cultivation across terroirs.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Viticulture, Agronomy, Horticulture, or closely related field.
• Minimum 8 years of specialized vineyard management and viticulture experience.
• Proven expertise in South African grape varietals and terroir.
• Strong knowledge of vineyard pests, diseases, and IPM strategies.
• Experience with soil science, plant physiology, and irrigation management for viticulture.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Proficiency in vineyard data management software and analytical tools.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive vineyard management plans focusing on viticultural best practices.
• Conduct soil analysis, water management strategies, and nutrient programs.
• Monitor vine health, identify diseases/pests, and apply effective control measures.
• Oversee pruning, trellising, canopy management, and harvesting.
• Manage irrigation systems to optimize water status and grape quality.
• Lead and mentor vineyard staff with high work and safety standards.
• Collaborate with winemaking to align grape quality with production targets.
• Research and adopt new viticultural technologies to improve yield and quality.
• Maintain accurate records of vineyard activities, inputs, and outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and promote sustainability.

Skills

Viticulture expertise

IPM (Integrated Pest Management)

Data analysis

Leadership

Irrigation management

Soil science

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Viticulture / Agronomy / Horticulture

Tools

Vineyard data management software

Analytical tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious vineyard and wine estate located in the scenic Cape Town region, is seeking an experienced and innovative Lead Agronomist with a specialization in Viticulture. This role is critical to maintaining and enhancing the quality of grapes produced, directly influencing the renowned wines the estate is known for. The Lead Agronomist will be responsible for the holistic management of the vineyard, employing cutting-edge scientific practices to ensure optimal vine health, grape quality, and sustainable cultivation. This is an on-site position, requiring a deep connection with the land and a hands-on approach to vineyard management. The successful candidate will join a dedicated team passionate about producing world-class wine.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive vineyard management plans, focusing on viticultural best practices.
• Conduct detailed soil analysis, water management strategies, and nutrient application programs.
• Monitor vine health, identify potential diseases and pests, and implement effective control measures.
• Oversee all vineyard operations, including pruning, trellising, canopy management, and harvesting.
• Manage irrigation systems efficiently to optimize vine water status and grape quality.
• Lead and mentor vineyard staff, ensuring high standards of work and safety.
• Collaborate with the winemaking team to understand grape quality requirements and production targets.
• Research and implement new viticultural technologies and techniques to improve grape yield and quality.
• Maintain accurate records of all vineyard activities, inputs, and outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and promote sustainable vineyard practices.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Viticulture, Agronomy, Horticulture, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of specialized experience in vineyard management and viticulture.
• Proven expertise in South African grape varietals and terroir.
• Strong knowledge of vineyard pests, diseases, and integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.
• Experience with soil science, plant physiology, and irrigation management specific to viticulture.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Proficiency in vineyard data management software and analytical tools.
• A passion for wine and a deep understanding of the link between vineyard practices and wine quality.
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a strategic mindset for long-term vineyard planning.

Benefits

• This role offers an attractive salary, reflective of extensive experience and specialized knowledge.
• The compensation package includes a comprehensive medical aid plan, providing coverage for essential healthcare needs.
• A retirement annuity contribution from the company is provided, ensuring long-term financial security.
• Employees are entitled to significant discounts on the estate's wines and other products.
• Opportunities for further professional development, including international conferences and specialized training, are available.
• Accommodation options or a housing allowance may be provided.
• The work environment is exceptionally scenic and supportive, fostering a strong sense of community among staff.