Viticulture Specialist - Vineyard Management

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-site housing

Housing allowance

Medical benefits

Retirement benefits

Conference attendance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Viticulture Specialist to lead vineyard management in Mossel Bay’s renowned wine region. You will oversee all aspects of grape cultivation from soil preparation to harvesting, ensuring grape quality for premium wines.

The ideal candidate holds an advanced degree in viticulture or related field, with at least 7 years in commercial vineyard management, strong irrigation expertise, and proven leadership.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agronomy or related field.
• Minimum 7 years of progressive experience in commercial vineyard management.
• In-depth knowledge of grapevine physiology, soil science, and pest/disease management specific to viticulture.
• Proven experience with irrigation management and understanding water requirements for grape varietals.
• Excellent leadership and team coordination skills.
• Familiarity with wine production processes and quality control.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive vineyard management plans, including pruning, trellising, and canopy management.
• Monitor vineyard health, soil conditions, pest and disease pressure, and implement control measures.
• Manage irrigation systems to ensure optimal water availability for grapevines.
• Oversee vineyard staff, providing training and ensuring efficient execution of tasks.
• Collaborate with the winery team to ensure grape quality meets winemaking requirements.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, inputs, yields, and quality assessments.

Skills

Vineyard management

Grape physiology

Irrigation management

Pest & disease management

Leadership

Quality control in wine production

Education

Advanced degree in Viticulture/Horticulture/Agronomy

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced Viticulture Specialist to lead vineyard management operations in the renowned wine-producing region of Mossel Bay . This role is responsible for ensuring the health and productivity of the vineyards, optimizing grape quality for winemaking, and implementing sustainable viticultural practices. You will oversee all aspects of grape cultivation, from soil preparation and planting to canopy management and harvesting, working closely with the winemaking team. This is a premier opportunity for a passionate viticulturist to shape the quality of premium grapes and contribute to the reputation of an esteemed winery.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive vineyard management plans, including pruning, trellising, and canopy management.
• Monitor vineyard health, soil conditions, pest and disease pressure, and implement appropriate control measures.
• Manage irrigation systems to ensure optimal water availability for grapevines.
• Oversee vineyard staff, providing training and ensuring efficient execution of tasks.
• Collaborate with the winery team to ensure grape quality meets specific winemaking requirements.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, inputs, yields, and quality assessments.

Requirements

• Advanced degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agronomy, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in commercial vineyard management.
• In-depth knowledge of grapevine physiology, soil science, and pest/disease management specific to viticulture.
• Proven experience with irrigation management and a strong understanding of water requirements for different grape varietals.
• Excellent leadership and team coordination skills.
• Familiarity with wine production processes and quality control.

Benefits

• Substantial annual salary commensurate with extensive experience.
• On-site housing or a generous housing allowance.
• Access to state-of-the-art vineyard technology and resources.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities to attend international wine and viticulture conferences.