Vineyard Operations Leader - Viticulture & Sustainability

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Housing options on or near estate

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Horticultural Operations Manager with viticulture expertise near Cape Town, Western Cape. The role directs vineyard management from soil preparation to harvest, focusing on quality, sustainability, and terroir-driven wine production.

You will lead staff, optimize growth, monitor vineyard health with sensors, and collaborate with the winemaking team to align grape production with desired wine styles.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Viticulture, Horticulture or related field.
• 8+ years of progressive viticulture and vineyard management experience.
• Knowledge of Cape Town region grape varietals and terroir.
• Experience with sustainable and organic viticulture practices.
• Strong leadership, communication, and team management skills.
• Proficiency with vineyard management software and data reporting.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement vineyard management plans across planting, pruning, irrigation, and canopy control.
• Oversee grape cultivation to achieve optimal ripeness and sugar/acid balance for winemaking.
• Manage pest, disease, and weed control using IPM and sustainable practices.
• Supervise and train vineyard staff, ensuring safety and high-quality execution.
• Monitor vineyard health and environmental conditions with sensors and tech.
• Plan and manage grape harvests for peak quality.
• Collaborate with winery team to align grape production with wine styles.
• Manage budgets, resources, and equipment maintenance.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities and yields.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Data analysis

Reporting

Vineyard software

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agricultural Science, or related field

Tools

Vineyard management software

Data analysis tools

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Horticultural Operations Manager with viticulture expertise near Cape Town, Western Cape. The role directs vineyard management from soil preparation to harvest, focusing on quality, sustainability, and terroir-driven wine production.

You will lead staff, optimize growth, monitor vineyard health with sensors, and collaborate with the winemaking team to align grape production with desired wine styles.