About the Role
Our client, a renowned wine estate located in the picturesque Paarl, Western Cape , is seeking an experienced Vineyard and Winery Sanitation Supervisor. This crucial role ensures the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene are maintained throughout the winemaking process, from vineyard operations to bottling and storage. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of food-grade cleaning and sanitization practices, chemical handling, and regulatory compliance within the food and beverage industry, with a specific focus on viticulture and oenology. You will lead a team responsible for the meticulous upkeep of winery equipment, tanks, cellars, and bottling lines, ensuring product integrity and preventing contamination. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the production of world‑class wines in the heart of the Cape Winelands, working in a beautiful setting near Paarl .
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement comprehensive cleaning and sanitization schedules for all winery areas and equipment.
- Supervise and train a team of sanitation staff, ensuring adherence to protocols and safety standards.
- Oversee the cleaning and sanitization of tanks, pipes, filters, bottling lines, and other winemaking equipment.
- Manage the safe storage, handling, and application of cleaning chemicals and sanitizers.
- Conduct regular quality control checks and audits to ensure all sanitation procedures are effective.
- Maintain accurate records of cleaning activities, chemical usage, and sanitation results.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant food safety regulations (e.g., HACCP principles) and internal quality standards.
- Collaborate with the winemaking team to address any sanitation-related concerns impacting wine quality.
- Manage inventory of sanitation supplies and equipment, recommending purchases as needed.
- Promote a culture of hygiene and safety throughout the winery operations.
Requirements
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in a cleaning or sanitation role within the food, beverage, or wine industry.
- Previous supervisory experience is highly desirable.
- Strong knowledge of food‑grade cleaning agents, sanitizers, and their application.
- Understanding of HACCP, GMP, or other food safety management systems.
- Experience in winery operations or vineyard hygiene is a significant advantage.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Physically fit and able to perform manual tasks, including working in cold environments.
- Must be detail‑oriented and committed to maintaining high standards of cleanliness.
- Willingness to work flexible hours, especially during harvest season, in the Paarl region.
Benefits
- Competitive annual salary of R78000.
- Opportunities for seasonal bonuses.
- Access to employee discounts on wine and estate products.
- Comprehensive training in winemaking sanitation best practices.
- Beautiful working environment in the heart of the Western Cape wine region.
- Contribution to the production of award‑winning wines.