Production Team Lead - Wine Production

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development

Scenic Stellenbosch location

Job summary

Placements24, a renowned winery in Stellenbosch, seeks a Production Team Lead to oversee daily wine production from grape reception through bottling. You will guide cellar and bottling staff, ensure quality standards, and drive continuous improvement in a hands-on role.

The ideal candidate will have at least 3 years in wine production with strong leadership, communication, and safety practices, and a solid understanding of winemaking processes in a premium winery environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years in wine production or cellar environment.
• Experience in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Strong understanding of winemaking processes, hygiene and QC.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise production staff in cellar and bottling operations.
• Ensure activities meet quality standards and winery procedures.
• Oversee fermentation, racking, blending, and bottling line operations.
• Train new team members and provide ongoing guidance.
• Maintain safe, clean working environment and health & safety compliance.
• Assist with wine stock and bottling supplies inventory.

Skills

Leadership

Winemaking knowledge

Quality control

Communication skills

Team management

Education

Viticulture/Oenology qualification

Tools

Bottling line equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned winery in the heart of the Cape Winelands, is seeking a motivated and experienced Production Team Lead for their facility in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This role is integral to overseeing daily production operations, ensuring the quality and efficiency of wine production processes from grape reception through to bottling. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of winemaking processes, excellent leadership abilities, and a commitment to quality. You will guide and support a team of cellar and bottling line workers, contributing to the winery's reputation for excellence. This is a hands-on role within a beautiful and dynamic industry. The Stellenbosch, Western Cape location is synonymous with premium wine production.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise a team of production staff in cellar and bottling operations.


• Ensure all production activities are carried out in accordance with established quality standards and winery procedures.


• Monitor and manage key stages of the winemaking process, including fermentation, racking, and blending.


• Oversee the efficient operation of bottling lines, ensuring product integrity and packaging quality.


• Train new team members and provide ongoing guidance and support to the production staff.


• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment, adhering to all health and safety regulations.


• Assist with inventory management of wine stocks and bottling supplies.


• Participate in quality control checks and sensory evaluations.


• Troubleshoot operational issues and implement solutions to maintain production flow.


• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts within the production department.

Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a wine production or cellar environment.


• Previous experience in a team leadership or supervisory role is essential.


• Good understanding of winemaking processes, hygiene, and quality control in a winery setting.


• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and lead by example.


• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.


• Physical fitness and the ability to perform manual tasks as required in a cellar environment.


• Awareness of health and safety standards in a production setting.


• Attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality wine.


• Flexibility to work extended hours during peak harvest and bottling seasons.


• A relevant qualification in Viticulture or Oenology is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, opportunities for professional development within the wine industry, and the chance to work in a scenic and rewarding environment in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . Employees benefit from involvement in the production of award-winning wines and a supportive team culture. This role provides a direct impact on the final product and offers growth potential within a respected wine estate.