Senior Viticulturist

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing assistance

Performance-based incentives

Professional development

Hybrid role

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Viticulturist for a premier wine estate in Mpumalanga. You will oversee all grape cultivation activities, drive soil health, irrigation, IPM, and sustainability initiatives to deliver premium quality fruit.

In this hybrid role, you will lead vineyard teams, collaborate with winemakers, maintain records, and optimize harvest timing while adhering to safety and environmental standards in the local climate.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agronomy, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years progressive viticulture and vineyard management experience.
• Strong knowledge of grape physiology, soil science and IPM.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement vineyard management plans, including pruning, canopy management, and irrigation strategies.
• Monitor vine health, soil conditions, and vineyard pests and diseases, implementing appropriate control measures.
• Conduct regular vineyard inspections and detailed record-keeping of all activities and observations.
• Oversee vineyard staff, providing training and ensuring efficient execution of tasks.
• Manage vineyard resources, including water, fertilizers, and pest control products, with a focus on sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
• Collaborate with the winemaking team to define grape quality parameters and harvest timing.
• Research and implement innovative viticultural techniques to improve grape quality and yield.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Contribute to the estate's overall sustainability initiatives.

Skills

Viticulture

Horticulture

IPM

Irrigation management

Water management

Grape varietals

Leadership

Organizational skills

Communication

Data analysis

Vineyard management software

Sustainable agriculture

Hybrid work

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher in Viticulture/Horticulture/Agronomy or related field

Tools

Vineyard management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned wine estate in the heart of the **Mpumalanga** wine region, is seeking an experienced Senior Viticulturist to manage and enhance their vineyard operations. This role requires a blend of scientific expertise and practical vineyard management skills. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of grape cultivation, from soil health and vine nutrition to pest and disease management, with the ultimate goal of producing premium quality grapes. This position offers a hybrid work model, allowing for flexibility while ensuring hands-on presence in the vineyards. The ideal candidate possesses a strong understanding of viticultural science, sustainable farming practices, and the unique challenges of grape growing in the local climate. You will work closely with the winemaking team to ensure the grapes meet the highest standards for wine production.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive vineyard management plans, including pruning, canopy management, and irrigation strategies.
• Monitor vine health, soil conditions, and vineyard pests and diseases, implementing appropriate control measures.
• Conduct regular vineyard inspections and detailed record-keeping of all activities and observations.
• Oversee vineyard staff, providing training and ensuring efficient execution of tasks.
• Manage vineyard resources, including water, fertilizers, and pest control products, with a focus on sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
• Collaborate with the winemaking team to define grape quality parameters and harvest timing.
• Research and implement innovative viticultural techniques to improve grape quality and yield.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Contribute to the estate's overall sustainability initiatives.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree or higher in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agronomy, or a related agricultural science field.
• A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in viticulture and vineyard management.
• In-depth knowledge of grape vine physiology, soil science, and integrated pest management (IPM).
• Experience with irrigation systems and water management in vineyards.
• Familiarity with wine grape varietals and their specific cultivation requirements.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid setting, balancing field duties with administrative tasks.
• Proficiency in vineyard management software and data analysis.
• A passion for quality winemaking and sustainable agricultural practices.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including during peak harvest seasons, and occasional remote work for planning and analysis.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with attractive benefits including housing assistance and performance-based incentives.
• You will be part of a prestigious wine estate with a commitment to excellence in both viticulture and winemaking.
• Professional development opportunities are available, allowing you to stay at the forefront of viticultural advancements.
• This hybrid role provides a balance of on-site vineyard work and remote administrative tasks in the beautiful **Mpumalanga** region.
• Join a dedicated team passionate about crafting exceptional wines from vine to bottle.