Vineyard Management Lead — Viticulture & Quality Grapes

Placements24; Randburg; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Housing allowance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Viticulturist to manage vineyards in Randburg, Gauteng. You will oversee all grape cultivation stages, from establishment to harvest, ensuring high-quality wine or table grapes.

The role requires hands-on leadership and strategic planning. The ideal candidate has 5+ years in vineyard management, deep grape physiology knowledge, IPM experience, and strong irrigation and soil science skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agronomy, or related field.
• 5+ years of proven vineyard management experience.
• Deep knowledge of grape physiology, phenology and best practices.
• Experience with IPM in viticulture.
• Proficiency in irrigation management and water-use efficiency techniques.
• Understanding of soil science and its impact on grape quality.
• Strong leadership, communication, and team management skills.
• Valid driver's license for Randburg area and vineyard sites.
• Experience with wine grape varietals and their cultivation needs.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement vineyard management plans including canopy management, pruning, and training.
• Monitor grape health, pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies; implement control measures.
• Manage irrigation systems to ensure optimal water availability.
• Oversee soil health management, fertilization, cover cropping, and erosion control.
• Plan planting, grafting, and replanting activities.
• Supervise vineyard staff; provide training on best practices.
• Conduct vineyard walks to assess growth, fruit development, and vineyard condition.
• Manage harvest operations including timing, logistics, and quality control.
• Implement sustainable viticultural practices to minimize environmental impact.
• Maintain records of vineyard activities, inputs, and yield data.
• Collaborate with winemakers to meet production quality requirements.
• Stay informed about viticultural research and technology.

Skills

Viticulture expertise

Field leadership

IPM knowledge

Irrigation management

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Viticulture

Tools

Irrigation systems

Soil analysis tools

Job description

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Viticulturist to manage vineyards in Randburg, Gauteng. You will oversee all grape cultivation stages, from establishment to harvest, ensuring high-quality wine or table grapes.

The role requires hands-on leadership and strategic planning. The ideal candidate has 5+ years in vineyard management, deep grape physiology knowledge, IPM experience, and strong irrigation and soil science skills.