Senior Viticulturist: Sustainable Vineyard Steward

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development opportunities

Wine allowance and employee discounts

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Viticulturist to manage extensive vineyards in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. The role encompasses all aspects of grape cultivation, canopy and irrigation management, pest control, and collaboration with the winemaking team to meet wine style requirements.

The ideal candidate will have a strong viticulture background, a track record of sustainable farming, and leadership abilities to guide operations in a premium wine region.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 years of progressive vineyard management experience.
• In-depth knowledge of Western Cape grape varietals and terroir.
• Experience with sustainable and organic farming in vineyards.
• Strong understanding of vine physiology, soil science and pests.
• Excellent leadership, communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement vineyard management plans for quality and yield.
• Oversee establishment, site selection, soil prep and planting.
• Manage canopy management: pruning, trellising and shoot thinning.
• Apply integrated pest, disease and weed management using sustainable methods.
• Monitor vine health, soil moisture and nutrients; take corrective actions.
• Manage irrigation systems for efficient water use.
• Plan and supervise harvest operations and grape sampling.
• Maintain detailed vineyard activity records and data.
• Collaborate with winemaking team to meet grape specs for wine styles.
• Ensure compliance with environmental and agricultural regulations.

Skills

Vineyard management

Canopy management

Irrigation management

Data analysis

Leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Viticulture/Oenology/Agri Science

Tools

Vineyard management software

Job description

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Viticulturist to manage extensive vineyards in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. The role encompasses all aspects of grape cultivation, canopy and irrigation management, pest control, and collaboration with the winemaking team to meet wine style requirements.

The ideal candidate will have a strong viticulture background, a track record of sustainable farming, and leadership abilities to guide operations in a premium wine region.