Vineyard Operations Specialist

Placements24; South Africa; Remote; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Remote work flexibility

Access to latest viticultural tech

Conference attendance support

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Vineyard Operations Specialist for a prestigious wine estate in the Paarl region. The remote role provides oversight and strategic guidance for all vineyard management practices, collaborating with the on-site viticulture team to optimize health, yield and quality of grapes for acclaimed wines.

You will analyze soil, climate and growth data, develop management plans, monitor budgets, and stay current with viticulture technology and sustainable farming.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree (M.Sc. or Ph.D.) in Viticulture, Agronomy, Horticulture or closely related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of hands-on vineyard management and operations experience.
• Proficiency with vineyard management software, data analysis tools and remote communication technologies.

Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee vineyard management plans including irrigation, fertilization, pest and disease control, and pruning schedules.
• Analyze vineyard data (soil, climate, growth patterns) to advise on vine health and grape quality.
• Collaborate remotely with on-site viticulture team to ensure accurate execution and provide technical support.
• Manage vineyard inventory, supplies, equipment maintenance and budget tracking.
• Stay up-to-date with viticulture technology and sustainable farming practices; recommend adoption where appropriate.
• Monitor crop development and predict yields to meet grape supply needs with winemaking team.

Skills

Vineyard management

Data analysis

Remote collaboration

Communication

Analytical thinking

Education

M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Viticulture/Agronomy/Horticulture

Tools

Vineyard management software

Data analysis tools

Remote communication tech

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious wine estate in the picturesque Paarl region, is seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Vineyard Operations Specialist to join their remote team. This crucial role involves providing expert oversight and strategic guidance for all vineyard management practices, ensuring the cultivation of premium grape varietals for their acclaimed wines. While the role is remote, you will work closely with the on-site viticulture team, utilizing technology and data analysis to optimize vineyard health, yield, and quality. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced viticulturist who thrives on data-driven decision-making and remote collaboration, contributing to the estate's legacy of winemaking excellence from afar.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee the implementation of vineyard management plans, including irrigation, fertilization, pest and disease control strategies, and pruning schedules.
• Analyze vineyard data (soil, climate, growth patterns) to make informed recommendations for optimal vine health and grape quality.
• Collaborate remotely with the on-site viticulture team to ensure accurate execution of vineyard practices and provide technical support.
• Manage vineyard inventory, including supplies, equipment maintenance, and budget tracking for vineyard operations.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in viticulture technology and sustainable farming practices, recommending adoption where appropriate.
• Monitor crop development and predict yields, working closely with the winemaking team to meet grape supply requirements.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (M.Sc. or Ph.D.) in Viticulture, Agronomy, Horticulture, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of hands-on experience in vineyard management and operations.
• Proven expertise in grape varietal cultivation, soil science, pest management, and irrigation systems.
• Proficiency in utilizing vineyard management software, data analysis tools, and remote communication technologies.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to provide strategic guidance remotely.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with diverse teams.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Remote work flexibility, allowing for a greater work-life balance.
• Access to cutting-edge viticultural technology and research.
• Opportunities to contribute to the production of award-winning wines.
• Contribution towards professional development and relevant industry conferences.