Lead Viticulture & Vineyard Steward | George, WC

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation provided

Performance bonuses

Health insurance

Retirement fund

Viticulture tech access

Wine discounts

Conference attendance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Horticulturalist specializing in Viticulture to head our vineyards near George, Western Cape. This hands-on leadership role covers planting, pruning and harvest to ensure premium grape quality for fine wine production.

The successful candidate will manage a team on site, drive sustainable viticulture practices, monitor soil and climate, and coordinate with winemaking teams to align harvest with quality targets.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Horticulture, Viticulture, Agricultural Science, or related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive viticulture and vineyard management experience.
• Deep knowledge of grapevine physiology, site selection, and rootstock compatibility.
• Experience with IPM and sustainable farming practices.
• Proficiency in vineyard management software and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all viticultural operations, including planting, canopy management, irrigation, fertilization, and pest/disease control.
• Develop and implement strategic vineyard management plans to optimize grape quality, yield, and vineyard health.
• Conduct regular vineyard inspections, soil testing, and weather monitoring to inform decision-making.
• Manage and lead a team of vineyard workers, providing training, supervision, and performance feedback.
• Research and implement best practices in sustainable viticulture, water management, and soil conservation.
• Coordinate with winemaking teams to ensure grape phenology aligns with harvest schedules and quality targets.
• Maintain accurate records of vineyard activities, inputs, and yields.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations within the vineyard operations in George, Western Cape.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Data analysis

Viticulture knowledge

IPM experience

Education

BSc/MSc Horticulture

Tools

Vineyard management software

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Horticulturalist specializing in Viticulture to head our vineyards near George, Western Cape. This hands-on leadership role covers planting, pruning and harvest to ensure premium grape quality for fine wine production.

The successful candidate will manage a team on site, drive sustainable viticulture practices, monitor soil and climate, and coordinate with winemaking teams to align harvest with quality targets.