Senior Viticulturist - Vineyard Management and Wine Quality

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Paid time off

Professional development

On-site accommodation

Job summary

Placements24 partners with a prestigious winery to recruit a Senior Viticulturist who will lead vineyard management in a hybrid role, requiring substantial on-site presence with remote data analysis and strategic planning.

You will oversee pruning, canopy management, irrigation, soil and tissue analysis, IPM programs, nutrient management, harvest logistics, and staff training, while collaborating with the winemaking team to align practices with terroir and premium grape quality, using vineyard

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Viticulture, Horticulture, Plant Science, or related field.
• Minimum 7 years in vineyard management.
• Experience with sustainable/organic viticulture and IPM.
• Proficiency with vineyard management software and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Oversee planting, pruning, canopy management, and irrigation.
• Develop and implement sustainable viticultural practices.
• Monitor grapevines' growth, health, and development.
• Manage pest, disease, and weed control using IPM.
• Conduct soil and tissue analysis to inform nutrients.
• Plan and manage harvest logistics for quality and timeliness.
• Supervise and train vineyard staff for safety and efficiency.
• Maintain records of activities, yields, and quality.
• Collaborate with the winemaking team to align practices with wine styles.
• Utilize vineyard software and data analysis for decision-making and reporting.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Data analysis

Vineyard management

IPM (Integrated Pest Management)

Terroir knowledge

Remote work capability

Vineyard management software

Education

Master's or PhD in Viticulture/Horticulture/Plant Science

Tools

Vineyard management software

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious winery, is seeking an experienced and dedicated Senior Viticulturist to lead their vineyard management operations. This hybrid role requires a significant presence on the vineyard, combined with remote capabilities for data analysis, reporting, and strategic planning. You will be responsible for the health, productivity, and quality of the grapevines, employing best practices in viticulture to ensure the production of premium wine grapes. This includes managing vineyard activities from pruning and canopy management to pest control and harvesting. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of terroir, grapevine physiology, and sustainable viticultural practices, alongside strong leadership and analytical skills. You will play a vital role in shaping the future quality and success of our client's wines. The role demands a passion for grape growing and a commitment to excellence in every aspect of vineyard management.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of vineyard operations, including planting, pruning, canopy management, and irrigation.
• Develop and implement sustainable viticultural practices to enhance grape quality and vineyard health.
• Monitor grapevine growth, health, and grape development throughout the season.
• Manage pest, disease, and weed control programs using integrated pest management (IPM) principles.
• Conduct soil and tissue analysis to inform nutrient management strategies.
• Plan and manage harvest logistics to ensure optimal grape quality and timely delivery to the winery.
• Supervise and train vineyard staff, fostering a culture of safety and efficiency.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, yields, and quality assessments.
• Collaborate with the winemaking team to align vineyard practices with desired wine styles.
• Utilize vineyard management software and data analysis tools for decision-making and reporting.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Viticulture, Horticulture, Plant Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in vineyard management.
• Proven expertise in grapevine physiology, soil science, and pest/disease management in cool-climate or relevant environments.
• Strong understanding of terroir and its impact on grape quality.
• Experience with sustainable or organic viticultural practices is highly desirable.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in vineyard management software and data analysis.
• Ability to work effectively both on-site and remotely, including data interpretation and reporting.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to work in varying weather conditions.
• Passion for wine and a commitment to producing exceptional grapes.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to work with world-class grape varietals and contribute to award-winning wines.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plan with employer matching.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities, including WSET or similar courses.
• Potential for on-site accommodation or housing assistance.
• A stimulating and rewarding work environment in the heart of wine country.