Vineyard Manager - Viticulture Specialist

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Health insurance

Retirement savings plans

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Vineyard Manager for vineyards in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You will oversee planting, pruning, irrigation, pest management and harvest to ensure premium grape quality and sustainable practices.

This hands-on role requires leadership and a deep viticulture knowledge base. You’ll manage a vineyard team, monitor soil health and water usage, and stay aligned with winemaking principles.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agricultural Science or related field.
• Minimum 6 years of vineyard management experience focused on premium grape production.
• Proficiency with vineyard management software and modern viticulture technologies.

Responsibilities

• Plan, implement and manage all vineyard operations from planting to harvest.
• Oversee irrigation, canopy management, pruning, trellising and soil health programs.
• Lead staff, ensure safety, quality and efficiency across the vineyard team.
• Monitor pests and diseases with IPM strategies and record input usage and yields.
• Maintain vineyard budgets and stay updated on viticulture advancements.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Viticulture knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher in Viticulture / Horticulture / Agricultural Science

Tools

Vineyard management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned winery located in the picturesque Western Cape, is seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Vineyard Manager to oversee their extensive vineyards in the Mossel Bay area. This is a critical role responsible for the meticulous management of all viticultural operations, from vine planting and cultivation to grape harvesting, with a paramount focus on quality and sustainability. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of grape varietals, soil science, pest and disease management, and modern vineyard technologies. You will lead a dedicated vineyard team, ensuring optimal grape quality that translates into award-winning wines. This hands-on position requires a passion for viticulture, excellent leadership skills, and a commitment to producing premium grapes in one of South Africa's premier wine-growing regions. The role is integral to the success of the winery's production, directly impacting the final product.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, implement, and manage all aspects of vineyard operations, including planting, pruning, canopy management, and trellising.
• Oversee irrigation scheduling and management to ensure optimal vine health and water usage efficiency.
• Develop and execute comprehensive pest and disease monitoring and control programs, prioritizing sustainable and integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.
• Manage soil health through regular testing and implementation of appropriate fertilization and soil amendment programs.
• Supervise and train vineyard staff, ensuring high standards of work quality, safety, and efficiency.
• Oversee grape harvesting operations, including timing, logistics, and quality control.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, including input usage, yields, and vine health.
• Manage the vineyard budget effectively, controlling costs while maximizing grape quality and yield.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in viticulture and vineyard technology.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree or higher in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in vineyard management, with a strong focus on premium grape production.
• Proven expertise in vine physiology, pest and disease management, and irrigation strategies.
• Experience in managing vineyard teams and operations in the Western Cape region is highly advantageous.
• Strong understanding of winemaking principles and how vineyard practices influence wine quality.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in using vineyard management software and relevant technologies.
• A valid driver's license and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, including performance bonuses and opportunities for advancement within the company. Benefits include comprehensive health insurance and retirement savings plans. This is an on-site role in the beautiful Mossel Bay region, offering a unique lifestyle and career opportunity. You will work with state-of-the-art vineyard equipment and contribute to the production of exceptional wines.