Viticulture Specialist - Vineyard Management

Placements24; South Africa; Remote; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based incentive

Medical aid and retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Viticulture Specialist for a renowned winery in Cape Town, Western Cape, to manage and optimize its extensive vineyard operations and ensure premium grape production. You will lead day-to-day vineyard activities, plan pruning, trellising, irrigation and harvests, monitor pests and diseases, and collaborate with the winemaking team to meet exacting quality standards.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in viticulture, a degree in Viticulture/Horticulture/Agronomy (Master's

Qualifications

• 7+ years of hands-on viticulture experience in cool-climate Western Cape varietals.
• Strong knowledge of soil management, pest/disease control, and irrigation systems.
• Experience leading a vineyard team and coordinating with winemaking staff.
• Familiar with SA wine industry standards and regulations.
• Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Proficient in vineyard management software.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day vineyard operations ensuring quality and sustainability.
• Develop detailed vineyard plans for pruning, trellising, irrigation, and fertilization.
• Monitor vineyard health and intervene against pests and diseases.
• Conduct soil and vine analyses to guide management decisions.
• Manage vineyard staff with training and performance feedback.
• Plan grape harvests for optimal ripeness and quality.
• Research new varietals and vineyard technologies for Cape Town.
• Maintain records of activities, inputs, and yields.
• Collaborate with winemaking team to meet specifications.
• Ensure compliance with agricultural regulations and best practices.

Skills

Viticulture expertise

Team management

Pest and disease control

Irrigation management

Data analysis

Education

Degree in Viticulture/Horticulture/Agronomy

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Vineyard management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned winery located in the picturesque **Cape Town, Western Cape**, seeks a highly skilled and dedicated Viticulture Specialist to manage and optimize its extensive vineyard operations.

This role is crucial for ensuring the production of premium quality grapes, essential for award-winning wines.

The ideal candidate will possess an exceptional understanding of grape-growing techniques, climate adaptation, and sustainable vineyard management practices specific to the **Western Cape** region.

You will be responsible for all aspects of vineyard health, from soil preparation and planting to canopy management, pest control, and harvest planning.

This position offers a unique opportunity to work with cutting-edge viticultural technology and contribute to the legacy of a prestigious wine producer.

The role requires a blend of scientific knowledge and practical, hands-on vineyard experience in **Cape Town**.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all day-to-day operations of the vineyards, ensuring adherence to quality and sustainability standards.
• Develop and implement detailed vineyard management plans, including pruning, trellising, irrigation, and fertilization programs.
• Monitor vineyard health, identify potential threats from pests, diseases, and environmental stressors, and implement timely interventions.
• Conduct regular soil and vine analysis to assess nutrient needs and guide management decisions.
• Manage vineyard staff, providing training, supervision, and performance feedback.
• Plan and coordinate grape harvesting to ensure optimal ripeness and quality.
• Research and trial new grape varietals and vineyard technologies suitable for the Cape Town environment.
• Maintain accurate records of vineyard activities, inputs, and yield data.
• Collaborate closely with the winemaking team to ensure grape quality meets winery specifications.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant agricultural regulations and environmental best practices.

Requirements

• Degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agronomy, or a related field. A Master's degree is preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of hands-on experience in viticulture, with a strong focus on cool-climate grape varietals common in the Western Cape .
• In-depth knowledge of vineyard establishment, soil management, pest and disease control, and irrigation systems.
• Familiarity with South African wine industry standards and regulations.
• Proven ability to manage a vineyard team and operate effectively within a winery context.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with meticulous attention to detail.
• Strong communication and reporting skills, including proficiency in vineyard management software.
• Ability to work flexible hours, particularly during peak seasons (pruning, harvest).
• Passion for wine and a commitment to producing high-quality grapes.

Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary package, a performance-based incentive plan, and comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions. Employees are provided with a company vehicle for work-related travel, subsidized housing options may be available. Opportunities for professional development, including industry conferences and specialized training, are provided. Join a prestigious and innovative winery in **Cape Town**, **Western Cape**, and be part of a team dedicated to excellence in winemaking and viticulture.