Vineyard Viticulture Lead - Quality & Sustainability

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Education opportunities

Industry seminars

International exposure

Job summary

Placements24 is assisting a prestigious wine estate in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, to recruit a Viticulturist who will lead all vineyard operations, from soil prep to harvest. The role focuses on grape quality, canopy management, pest control, and water management to support premium wine production.

The successful candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree in Viticulture or related field, 5+ years in vineyard management, and strong IPM, irrigation, and data analysis skills, with a commitment to

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Viticulture, Agricultural Science, Oenology, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years hands-on vineyard management experience.
• Proven expertise in grape cultivation, vine physiology, and wine grape quality assessment.
• Strong knowledge of vineyard pests, diseases, and IPM strategies.
• Experience with irrigation systems and water management in viticulture.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in vineyard management software and data analysis.
• Deep understanding of the terroir and climate of the Western Cape wine regions.
• Commitment to sustainable viticultural practices.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement vineyard management plans to optimize grape quality and yield.
• Manage vine health including pruning, training, canopy management, and nutrition.
• Monitor vineyard pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies; implement control measures.
• Oversee irrigation scheduling and water management in viticulture.
• Conduct regular vineyard block assessments and record-keeping in Mossel Bay.
• Manage vineyard staff including hiring, training and supervision.
• Collaborate with winemaking team to align harvest timing with winery needs.
• Promote sustainable and organic farming practices within the vineyards.
• Stay abreast of research and innovations in viticulture.

Skills

Grape cultivation

IPM strategies

Irrigation management

Vineyard leadership

Data analysis

Terroir knowledge

Sustainable viticulture

Education

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

Tools

Vineyard management software

Job description

Placements24 is assisting a prestigious wine estate in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, to recruit a Viticulturist who will lead all vineyard operations, from soil prep to harvest. The role focuses on grape quality, canopy management, pest control, and water management to support premium wine production.

The successful candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree in Viticulture or related field, 5+ years in vineyard management, and strong IPM, irrigation, and data analysis skills, with a commitment to