Viticulture Scientist - Vineyard Management & Research

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Generous annual leave

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Viticulture Scientist for a hybrid role in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You will advance grape cultivation science, optimize vineyard practices, and conduct research to improve grape quality and disease resistance.

The role requires a Master's or Ph.D. in a related field and at least 5 years of viticulture experience. You will work across field sites and laboratories, collaborating with winemakers and R&D staff to publish findings and drive innovations in wine production.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Viticulture, Plant Science, Agronomy, Horticulture, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of research and practical experience in viticulture.
• In-depth knowledge of grape physiology, soil science, entomology, and plant pathology relevant to viticulture.
• Proven experience in experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation.
• Familiarity with vineyard management practices and technologies.

Responsibilities

• Conduct applied research on grape varietals, rootstocks, and vineyard management to improve quality and yield.
• Develop and implement sustainable viticultural practices including water management and IPM.
• Monitor vineyard health and diagnose pests, diseases and disorders.
• Collect and analyze data on vineyard performance, climate, soil, and grape composition.
• Oversee vineyard trials and ensure accurate data collection and stats.
• Collaborate with winemakers to meet winery objectives.
• Stay current with scientific literature and industry trends in viticulture and enology.

Skills

Viticulture knowledge

Plant science

Data analysis

Fieldwork

Scientific writing

Education

Master's degree or Ph.D. in Viticulture / related field

Tools

R

SAS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned leader in the wine industry, is seeking a highly qualified Viticulture Scientist to join their esteemed research and development team in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This vital role focuses on advancing the science of grape cultivation, optimizing vineyard management practices, and conducting research to enhance grape quality, yield, and disease resistance. You will be at the forefront of exploring innovative viticultural techniques, sustainable farming methods, and the impact of environmental factors on grape varietals. This position involves a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for essential fieldwork in vineyards around Mossel Bay as well as dedicated time for laboratory analysis, data interpretation, and report writing. The ideal candidate possesses a strong scientific background, a passion for viticulture, and a commitment to excellence in winemaking from grape to glass.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct applied research on grape varietals, rootstocks, and vineyard management techniques to improve quality and yield in the Western Cape climate.
• Develop and implement sustainable viticultural practices, including water management, soil health, and integrated pest management (IPM).
• Monitor vineyard health, identifying and diagnosing pests, diseases, and physiological disorders, and recommending appropriate interventions.
• Collect and analyze data related to vineyard performance, climate, soil conditions, and grape composition.
• Oversee vineyard trials and experimental plots, ensuring accurate data collection and statistical analysis.
• Collaborate with winemakers and other R&D personnel to ensure grape quality meets winery objectives.
• Stay current with scientific literature, emerging technologies, and industry trends in viticulture and enology.
• Provide technical guidance and training to vineyard staff and management on best practices.
• Contribute to the development of long-term vineyard strategies and resource management plans.
• Prepare scientific reports, presentations, and publications for internal and external dissemination.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Viticulture, Plant Science, Agronomy, Horticulture, or a related field with a strong focus on grape growing.
• Minimum of 5 years of research and practical experience in viticulture.
• In-depth knowledge of grape physiology, soil science, entomology, and plant pathology relevant to viticulture.
• Proven experience in experimental design, data analysis (including statistical software like R or SAS), and interpretation.
• Familiarity with vineyard management practices and technologies.
• Understanding of the South African wine industry and the specific challenges and opportunities in the Western Cape .
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex scientific information clearly.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to conduct fieldwork in various vineyard locations.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience, along with performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive health insurance, retirement benefits, and generous annual leave are provided.
• Opportunities for professional development include attending international viticulture conferences, further research, and potential publications.
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and equipment.
• A unique chance to contribute to the prestige of South African wines.
• Join a dedicated team passionate about the art and science of winemaking.