Senior Viticulturist & Vineyard Manager

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and bonus

Medical aid

Accommodation on/near estate

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a passionate Viticulturist to manage all vineyard activities at a renowned wine estate in Sandton, Gauteng. The role demands hands-on leadership to ensure healthy vines, optimal canopy management, and high-quality grape production.

You will oversee planting, pruning, irrigation, soil health, and harvest coordination, while leading a team and maintaining detailed records. The ideal candidate has a strong viticultural background and a proactive attitude toward sustainable

Qualifications

• A degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in vineyard management.
• Comprehensive knowledge of grapevine physiology, disease and pest management, and sustainable viticultural practices.
• Experience with irrigation systems, vineyard machinery, and pruning techniques.
• Understanding of wine grape varietals and their growing requirements.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all vineyard operations, including planting, pruning, trellising, and irrigation management.
• Monitor vine health, identify diseases and pests, and implement organic or integrated management strategies.
• Manage soil health through fertilization and soil amendment programs.
• Plan canopy management techniques to optimize sunlight exposure and fruit development.
• Coordinate harvest activities and manage picking crews for quality fruit.
• Supervise and train vineyard staff, fostering a culture of care and precision.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, crop yields, and vineyard health assessments.
• Collaborate with the winemaker to ensure grape quality meets wine production requirements.

Skills

Viticulture

Leadership

Team management

Record-keeping

Canopy management

Education

Degree in Viticulture or related field

Tools

Irrigation systems

Vineyard machinery

Pruning techniques

Job description

Placements24 seeks a passionate Viticulturist to manage all vineyard activities at a renowned wine estate in Sandton, Gauteng. The role demands hands-on leadership to ensure healthy vines, optimal canopy management, and high-quality grape production.

You will oversee planting, pruning, irrigation, soil health, and harvest coordination, while leading a team and maintaining detailed records. The ideal candidate has a strong viticultural background and a proactive attitude toward sustainable