Vineyard & Farm Operations Lead (Hands-On, Sustainable)

HotelJobs; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 640,000; Full time

Job summary

HotelJobs is seeking a hands-on Farm & Vineyards Manager to run the day-to-day operations of vineyards and farms near Stellenbosch. The role requires thriving outdoors, and the ability to lead a team through pruning to harvest while maintaining quality, safety, and sustainability.

You will manage vine health, soil health, equipment maintenance, and ensure compliance with ethical standards across estates, including WIETA and Fairtrade.

Qualifications

• Requires Grade 12 or higher with winemaking/oenology/viticulture emphasis or related agricultural degree.
• Minimum 5 years of experience on a vineyard-operating farm.
• Technical knowledge of farm and vineyard machinery and winemaking processes.
• Proven experience in leading and managing a team.
• Strong problem-solving skills and hands-on approach.
• Computer literacy is essential.
• Willingness to work overtime when needed.
• Fluent in English and Afrikaans.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all vineyard operations including planting, pruning, irrigation, fertilization, pest control, and harvesting.
• Monitor vine health and growth to maximize grape quality and yield.
• Develop soil health programmes aligned with sustainability goals.
• Plan seasonal and annual vineyard programmes.
• Lead and manage vineyard staff, including scheduling and performance reviews, with safety focus.
• Supervise workforce during peak periods such as harvest.
• Promote sustainable farming, water conservation, and pest management per WIETA and Fairtrade.
• Ensure equipment and tractors are maintained and safe to operate.
• Plan and oversee property maintenance and repairs within budget.
• Manage security and liaise with service providers.
• Maintain accurate compliance and audit records.
• Support promotional activities, farm tours, and tastings with sales/marketing teams.

Skills

Team Leadership

Vineyard Management

Agriculture Knowledge

Fluency in English

Fluency in Afrikaans

Problem Solving

Computer Literacy

Education

Winemaking/Oenology/Viticulture degree

Grade 12

Tools

Farm machinery knowledge

Equipment maintenance

Job description

HotelJobs is seeking a hands-on Farm & Vineyards Manager to run the day-to-day operations of vineyards and farms near Stellenbosch. The role requires thriving outdoors, and the ability to lead a team through pruning to harvest while maintaining quality, safety, and sustainability.

You will manage vine health, soil health, equipment maintenance, and ensure compliance with ethical standards across estates, including WIETA and Fairtrade.