Senior Viticulturist — Premium Stellenbosch Estate

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing assistance

Performance bonuses

Retirement benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Viticulturist for a renowned Stellenbosch wine estate to oversee grape cultivation, soil health, irrigation, and harvest planning. You will lead a vineyard team, apply sustainable farming practices, and collaborate with the winemaker to meet quality targets.

The role demands at least seven years in premium viticulture, strong knowledge of vine physiology, soil science, and pest management, plus experience with vineyard software.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in viticulture with track record in premium wine production.
• Experience with sustainable and organic farming.
• Deep knowledge of grapevine physiology, soil science, entomology and plant pathology.
• Experience with irrigation systems, soil analysis and vineyard mapping technologies.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills.
• Strong analytical and data-driven approach to vineyard management.
• Understanding of wine production processes and factors influencing grape quality.
• Proficiency in vineyard management software and office applications.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agronomy, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive vineyard management plans (irrigation, fertilization, pest and disease control, canopy management).
• Monitor vine health, soil conditions and microclimates to identify issues and implement solutions.
• Lead a vineyard team with training, supervision and performance evaluations.
• Oversee harvest timing to ensure optimal grape quality and minimize damage.
• Maintain detailed records of activities, observations and interventions.
• Research and implement innovative viticultural practices and technologies.
• Manage vineyard budget and resource allocation.
• Collaborate with winemaker to meet grape quality requirements for varietals.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.
• Contribute to strategic planning and long-term development of the vineyard.

Skills

Vineyard leadership

Viticulture expertise

Sustainable farming

Soil science

Grape physiology

Irrigation systems

Data-driven management

Vineyard mapping tech

Winemaking collaboration

Office software

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s in Viticulture/Horticulture/Agronomy

Tools

Vineyard management software

General office apps

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Viticulturist for a renowned Stellenbosch wine estate to oversee grape cultivation, soil health, irrigation, and harvest planning. You will lead a vineyard team, apply sustainable farming practices, and collaborate with the winemaker to meet quality targets.

The role demands at least seven years in premium viticulture, strong knowledge of vine physiology, soil science, and pest management, plus experience with vineyard software.