Lead Horticulturalist - Vineyards & Viticulture

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Annual performance bonuses tied to vit

Accommodation on estate

Access to viticultural resources

International study tours

Job summary

Placements24 represents a renowned wine estate in Cape Town seeking a Lead Horticulturalist to oversee all vineyard operations, focusing on premium wine grape production. You will manage a vineyard team, implement sustainable practices, and collaborate with winemaking to ensure fruit meets specifications.

A degree in viticulture or related field and 8+ years of vineyard leadership are required. This hands-on role offers a base salary, performance bonuses, accommodation, and access to top

Qualifications

• Degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agricultural Science, or related field.
• Minimum 8 years in vineyard management for premium wine grape production.
• Demonstrated leadership with ability to manage and motivate a team.
• Knowledge of grape varietals, soil analysis, and nutrient management.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily vineyard operations including planting, pruning, canopy management, irrigation, and harvesting.
• Lead, train, and supervise a vineyard team to ensure best practices.
• Develop vineyard management plans for optimal grape quality and yield for varietals.
• Monitor soil health, vine nutrition, and water status; apply treatments.
• Implement IPM programs to protect vines.
• Manage vineyard equipment maintenance and safety.
• Collaborate with winemaking team to meet grape specifications.
• Record-keeping and budgeting input for vineyard activities.

Skills

Leadership

Vineyard management

Viticulture knowledge

Soil analysis

Irrigation systems

IPM

Team management

Communication

Education

Degree in Viticulture/Horticulture/Agricultural Science

Postgraduate qualification (advantage)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned wine estate situated in the picturesque Cape Town, Western Cape, is actively seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Horticulturalist to oversee all aspects of their vineyard operations. This critical position demands a deep passion for viticulture, coupled with extensive practical knowledge of grape cultivation, soil management, and pest control specific to premium wine grape varietals. The Lead Horticulturalist will be responsible for managing a dedicated vineyard team, ensuring the highest quality of fruit production, and implementing sustainable practices that enhance the long‑term health and productivity of the vineyards. This role is based at our client's stunning estate and offers an unparalleled opportunity to contribute to the creation of award‑winning wines. The successful candidate will be a hands‑on leader, capable of making strategic decisions while also being comfortable working directly with the vines. You will play a crucial role in defining the future quality and character of the wines produced. The position is integral to maintaining the estate's reputation for excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all daily vineyard operations, including planting, pruning, canopy management, irrigation, and harvesting.
• Lead, train, and supervise a team of vineyard workers, ensuring efficiency and adherence to best practices.
• Develop and implement vineyard management plans focusing on optimal grape quality and yield for specific varietals.
• Monitor soil health, vine nutrition, and water status, recommending and applying appropriate treatments.
• Implement and manage integrated pest and disease management (IPM) programs to protect the vines.
• Oversee the maintenance and operation of vineyard equipment, ensuring safety and efficiency.
• Conduct regular vineyard inspections and detailed record‑keeping of all activities.
• Collaborate with the winery's winemaking team to ensure grapes meet desired specifications.
• Research and propose innovative techniques for improving vineyard performance and sustainability.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Contribute to budgeting and financial planning for the vineyard department.

Requirements

• Degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
• A postgraduate qualification is a significant advantage.
• Minimum of 8 years of comprehensive experience in vineyard management, with a strong focus on premium wine grape production.
• Demonstrated leadership experience, with the ability to manage and motivate a team effectively.
• In‑depth knowledge of various grape varietals, their specific growing requirements, and wine‑making potential.
• Proficiency in vineyard mapping, soil analysis, and nutrient management techniques.
• Experience with sustainable and organic farming practices is highly preferred.
• Familiarity with vineyard mechanization and irrigation systems.
• Excellent problem‑solving, decision‑making, and organizational skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, capable of working collaboratively with diverse teams.
• Physical fitness and ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Valid driver's license is essential.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive remuneration package, including a substantial base salary, annual performance bonuses tied to vineyard yield and quality, and comprehensive medical aid and pension fund benefits.
• Accommodation on or near the estate may be provided.
• You will have access to state‑of‑the‑art viticultural resources and the opportunity to work alongside world‑class winemakers.
• Continuous learning and professional development opportunities, including international study tours, are available.
• This role offers a unique lifestyle and career progression within a prestigious wine‑producing environment in Cape Town.