Viticulture Scientist - Vineyard Management

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Ibrido; ZAR 1.300.000 - 2.000.000; Tempo pieno

Vantaggi offerti da questo lavoro

Competitive salary package

Health insurance

Professional development opportunities

Hybrid work arrangement

Descrizione del lavoro

Placements24 is seeking a Viticulture Scientist to lead vineyard management in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. The role focuses on optimizing grape quality and yield through scientific research, innovative practices, and meticulous vine management in a premium wine estate.

The ideal candidate will have 6+ years in viticulture, strong knowledge of grapevine physiology, soil science, climate effects, and sustainable techniques, with collaboration across the winemaking team.

Competenze

• Master's or PhD in Viticulture, Plant Science, Agronomy, or related field.
• 6+ years' viticulture experience with strong vineyard management and research focus.
• Knowledge of grapevine physiology, soil science, climate influences and sustainable viticulture.
• Experience with vineyard mapping and data analysis is desirable.

Mansioni

• Lead vineyard operations to optimize grape quality and yield through scientific practices.
• Prune canopies, manage irrigation, fertilization and pest/disease control.
• Monitor soil, climate data and vineyard health to guide decisions.
• Develop sustainable viticultural strategies focusing on water conservation and biodiversity.
• Oversee planting of new grape varietals/rootstocks for Mossel Bay terroir.
• Collaborate with Head Winemaker to meet grape requirements for wine styles.
• Manage vineyard staff with training and supervision on best practices.
• Maintain detailed records of activities, yields, and quality assessments.
• Stay updated with global viticulture research and technology.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and industry standards.

Conoscenze

Viticulture expertise

Vineyard management

Data analysis

Leadership

Formazione

Master's or PhD in Viticulture/Plant Science/Agronomy

Strumenti

GIS mapping

Statistical software

Descrizione del lavoro

About the Role

Our client, a renowned wine estate, is seeking a highly skilled Viticulture Scientist to lead their vineyard management efforts in the picturesque region of Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This role focuses on optimizing grape quality and yield through scientific research, innovative vineyard practices, and meticulous management of grapevines. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of grapevine physiology, soil science, climate influences, and sustainable viticultural techniques. You will be responsible for the health and productivity of the vineyards, working closely with the winemaking team to ensure the highest quality grapes for premium wine production. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the legacy of excellence in winemaking by applying cutting-edge science to the art of viticulture in the beautiful Western Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research and implement advanced viticultural practices to enhance grape quality and yield.
• Manage all aspects of vineyard operations, including pruning, canopy management, irrigation, fertilization, and pest/disease control.
• Monitor vineyard health, soil conditions, and climate data, utilizing scientific analysis to inform management decisions.
• Develop and implement sustainable viticultural strategies, focusing on water conservation, soil health, and biodiversity.
• Oversee the selection and planting of new grape varietals and rootstocks suitable for the Mossel Bay terroir.
• Collaborate closely with the Head Winemaker to understand grape requirements for different wine styles.
• Manage vineyard staff, providing training and supervision to ensure adherence to best practices.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, observations, yields, and quality assessments.
• Stay abreast of the latest research and technological advancements in viticulture globally.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental regulations and industry standards.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Viticulture, Plant Science, Agronomy, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in viticulture, with a strong emphasis on vineyard management and research.
• In-depth knowledge of grapevine physiology, phenology, and responses to environmental factors.
• Proven experience with soil and water management techniques in a viticultural context.
• Familiarity with integrated pest and disease management strategies specific to vineyards.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex scientific data.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead teams and collaborate effectively.
• Experience with vineyard mapping and data analysis tools is highly desirable.
• Adaptability to working in diverse weather conditions and vineyard environments.
• Passion for winemaking and a commitment to producing high-quality grapes in the Western Cape .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, performance incentives, and comprehensive benefits including health insurance and retirement provisions.
• Opportunities for professional development, including attending international viticulture conferences, are available.
• You will work on a world-class wine estate with access to state-of-the-art facilities and research resources.
• The role offers a hybrid work arrangement, balancing hands-on vineyard work with data analysis and strategic planning.
• Be part of a team dedicated to crafting exceptional wines through scientific excellence in the heart of South Africa 's wine country.