Vineyard Operations Lead - Viticulture & Harvest

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid contributions

Provident fund

Performance-related bonuses

Accommodation may be available

Job summary

Placements24 has a premier vineyard and winery operation in the Free State seeking an experienced Farm Operations Manager to oversee viticulture and farm management on-site.

You will lead vineyard health, irrigation, pest and disease control, harvesting logistics and staff supervision while maintaining high-quality grape production and sustainable practices for a renowned wine estate.

Qualifications

• Degree or higher in viticulture, horticulture, or agricultural science.
• Minimum 5 years in vineyard management or high-value crop farming.
• Strong leadership, communication and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all vineyard operations including planting, pruning, canopy management, irrigation, and pest/disease control.
• Oversee grape harvesting planning and execution for quality.
• Manage farm equipment maintenance and ensure operational readiness.
• Supervise, train and motivate vineyard workers and seasonal staff.
• Implement sustainable farming practices and environmental stewardship.
• Manage budgets for vineyard operations (labour, materials, equipment).
• Maintain records of vineyard activities, yields and inputs.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with winemakers to meet winery specifications.
• Monitor weather and implement frost, drought or heat risk strategies.

Skills

Viticulture knowledge

Staff supervision

Budget management

Irrigation systems

Pest & disease control

Education

Bachelor's degree in Viticulture/Horticulture/Agricultural Science

Tools

Farm management software

Job description

Placements24 has a premier vineyard and winery operation in the Free State seeking an experienced Farm Operations Manager to oversee viticulture and farm management on-site.

You will lead vineyard health, irrigation, pest and disease control, harvesting logistics and staff supervision while maintaining high-quality grape production and sustainable practices for a renowned wine estate.