Vineyard Foreman

Christine Loopstra; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 320,000 - 420,000; Full time

Job summary

Christine Loopstra seeks an experienced Vineyard Foreman for a prestigious Stellenbosch wine estate to oversee daily vineyard operations, lead teams, and ensure safety and excellence in viticulture.

The successful candidate will coordinate activities with the Farm Manager, supervise tractor operators and seasonal workers, and plan pruning, harvesting and irrigation while maintaining equipment and stock and upholding health and safety standards.

Qualifications

• Experience in vineyard operations with supervisory responsibilities.
• Strong knowledge of viticulture, vineyard maintenance and grape growing practices.
• Proven ability to supervise and motivate employees and contract teams.
• Strong organisational, planning and problem‑solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate daily vineyard operations with the Farm Manager.
• Supervise vineyard staff, tractor operators and contract workers for productivity and quality.
• Plan and oversee pruning, harvesting, irrigation and general vineyard maintenance.
• Monitor vine health, grape development, pests and weeds; report concerns.
• Assist with grape sampling and quality monitoring through the season.
• Oversee irrigation programmes and machinery maintenance as needed.
• Operate tractors and agricultural equipment as required.
• Manage chemical stocks and vineyard supplies safely and efficiently.
• Train new employees and uphold procedures and safety standards.
• Maintain clean, safe vineyards and working areas; enforce health and safety rules.

Skills

Leadership

Viticulture

Team supervision

Safety

Education

Viticulture or Agriculture qualification

Job description

VINEYARD FOREMAN

Stellenbosch: My client, a prestigious wine estate in the Cape Winelands, is seeking an experienced and hands-on Vineyard Foreman to oversee daily vineyard operations, lead vineyard teams and ensure that all activities are carried out efficiently and to the required standard.
This role is ideally suited to a practical, organised and safety-conscious individual with sound viticultural knowledge, strong leadership abilities and a passion for vineyard operations.

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE
To coordinate and supervise vineyard activities throughout the growing season, ensuring effective staff management, sound vineyard maintenance, optimal grape quality and compliance with operational and safety standards.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

• Coordinate daily vineyard operations in conjunction with the Farm Manager
• Supervise vineyard employees, tractor operators and contract workers, ensuring productivity and quality workmanship
• Plan and oversee seasonal activities, including pruning, harvesting, irrigation and general vineyard maintenance
• Monitor vine health, grape development, pests and weeds, reporting any concerns promptly
• Assist with grape sampling and quality monitoring throughout the growing season
• Oversee irrigation programmes and assist with system maintenance when required
• Operate tractors and agricultural machinery as operationally necessary
• Manage chemical stocks, vineyard supplies and consumables, ensuring responsible handling and usage
• Ensure machinery and equipment are maintained, cleaned and any faults reported
• Train new employees and promote adherence to vineyard procedures and work standards
• Maintain clean, orderly and safe vineyards, paddocks and working areas
• Uphold health, safety and emergency procedures
• Assist with cellar operations, deliveries and other farm-related activities when required
• Support the Farm Manager with operational planning and take ownership of assigned duties

CRITERIA

• Previous experience in vineyard operations, preferably in a supervisory or foreman capacity
• Sound knowledge of viticulture, vineyard maintenance, irrigation and grape-growing practices
• Practical experience with tractors, agricultural equipment and chemical handling
• Proven ability to supervise and motivate employees and contract teams
• A qualification in Viticulture, Agriculture or a related field will be advantageous
• Strong organisational, planning and problem-solving abilities
• Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a diverse team
• A proactive, dependable and hands-on approach, with the ability to work independently
• A strong commitment to workplace safety, operational standards and grape quality