Viticulture Specialist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Professional development

Modern vineyard technology

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an expert Viticulture Specialist near Rustenburg, North West, to lead vineyard operations, optimize grape quality, and manage pest/disease strategies. The role demands hands-on field leadership and on-site supervision of critical vineyard activities.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in grape physiology, irrigation, soil management, and collaboration with winemakers to meet end-use requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Plant Science, or related discipline.
• At least 5 years of hands-on viticulture or vineyard management experience.
• Strong knowledge of grapevine physiology, rootstock, and varietals suitable for the North West region.
• Demonstrated experience in pest and disease management, including control strategies.
• Proficiency in vineyard assessment techniques and data collection.
• Experience with irrigation systems and soil nutrient management.
• Ability to lead and manage a field crew effectively.
• Familiarity with local agricultural regulations and environmental best practices.
• Valid driver's license and ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Manage all vineyard operations, from planting and pruning to canopy management and harvesting.
• Monitor vine health, identify threats, and implement timely interventions.
• Develop and execute vineyard fertilization and irrigation plans based on soil analysis and vine needs.
• Supervise vineyard staff, providing training and ensuring adherence to best practices.
• Conduct research and trials to improve grape quality, yield, and sustainability.
• Implement and manage integrated pest and disease management programs.
• Oversee harvest operations, ensuring optimal timing and quality of grape collection.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, including block performance, treatments, and yield data.
• Collaborate with winemakers or marketers to ensure grape quality meets end-use requirements.

Skills

Viticulture

Vineyard management

Pest and disease management

Irrigation systems

Data collection

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Viticulture

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished agricultural entity located near Rustenburg , North West , is looking for an expert Viticulture Specialist to join their team. This role focuses on the science, production, and management of grapevines, with a potential application in table grapes or wine production. The specialist will be responsible for optimizing vineyard health, yield, and grape quality through advanced viticultural practices and meticulous vineyard management. This position requires a deep understanding of grapevine physiology, soil management, pest and disease control, and harvesting strategies. The role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a growing agricultural operation in a region known for its diverse agricultural potential, and requires a professional who can balance scientific knowledge with practical application in the vineyard. The role requires regular presence on-site to oversee critical vineyard activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of vineyard operations, from planting and pruning to canopy management and harvesting.
• Monitor vine health, identify potential threats (pests, diseases, nutrient deficiencies), and implement timely interventions.
• Develop and execute vineyard fertilization and irrigation plans based on soil analysis and vine needs.
• Supervise vineyard staff, providing training and ensuring adherence to best practices.
• Conduct research and trials to improve grape quality, yield, and vineyard sustainability.
• Implement and manage integrated pest and disease management programs.
• Oversee harvest operations, ensuring optimal timing and quality of grape collection.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, including block performance, treatments, and yield data.
• Collaborate with winemakers or marketers to ensure grape quality meets specific end-use requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Plant Science, or a related discipline.
• At least 5 years of hands-on experience in viticulture or vineyard management.
• Strong knowledge of grapevine physiology, rootstock, and varietal characteristics suitable for the North West region.
• Demonstrated experience in pest and disease management, including identification and control strategies.
• Proficiency in vineyard assessment techniques and data collection.
• Experience with irrigation systems and soil nutrient management.
• Ability to lead and manage a field crew effectively.
• Familiarity with local agricultural regulations and environmental best practices.
• Valid driver's license and ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package based on expertise and experience.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Health insurance and retirement savings plan.
• Opportunities for ongoing professional development in viticulture.
• A dynamic role within an expanding agricultural enterprise near Rustenburg .
• Supportive team environment and access to modern vineyard technology.