Senior Agronomist - Viticulture Specialist

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Study leave for professional develop.

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch is seeking a Senior Agronomist with viticulture expertise to lead vineyard health, growth and productivity. You will oversee soil preparation, planting, pest control and harvesting to ensure high-quality grapes for wine production.

Ideal candidates bring 8+ years in vineyard management, strong leadership, and the ability to apply precision viticulture techniques within a renowned wine estate.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Viticulture, Agronomy, Horticulture, or related field.
• 8+ years in vineyard management and viticulture research.
• Knowledge of wine grape varietals, clonal selection, and rootstock suitability.
• Experience with vineyard establishment, development, and precision viticulture.
• Strong leadership, communication, and team management skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement vineyard management plans to optimize quality and yield.
• Lead soil and leaf tissue analysis to guide irrigation and fertilization.
• Oversee IPM-based pest and disease management programs.
• Manage pruning, canopy management, and harvest logistics.
• Train and supervise vineyard staff with safety and best practices.

Skills

Vineyard management

IPM

Soil & leaf analysis

Irrigation planning

Staff leadership

Education

MSc or PhD in Viticulture, Agronomy, or related

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Agronomist with a specialization in Viticulture to join their prestigious team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This critical role will oversee the health, growth, and productivity of extensive vineyards, applying advanced horticultural and scientific principles. You will be responsible for managing all aspects of vineyard management, from soil preparation and planting to pest control and harvesting, ensuring the highest quality grapes for wine production. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to one of South Africa's most renowned wine-producing regions, working with cutting-edge viticultural practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive vineyard management plans, focusing on optimal grape quality and yield.
• Conduct detailed soil and leaf tissue analysis to inform precise irrigation and fertilization strategies.
• Oversee pest and disease management programs, employing integrated pest management (IPM) techniques.
• Manage vineyard operations, including pruning, canopy management, and harvest logistics.
• Train and supervise vineyard staff, ensuring adherence to best practices and safety protocols.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Viticulture, Agronomy, Horticulture, or a related agricultural science.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in vineyard management and viticulture research.
• In-depth knowledge of wine grape varietals , clonal selection, and rootstock suitability.
• Proven experience with vineyard establishment, development, and precision viticulture techniques.
• Strong leadership, communication, and team management skills.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement benefits.
• Generous paid time off and study leave for professional development.
• Access to cutting-edge vineyard technology and research facilities.
• Opportunities for career advancement within a leading wine estate.