Viticulture Specialist - Vineyard Management and Quality Control

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Vor Ort; ZAR 600.000 - 900.000; Vollzeit

Benefits dieser Stelle

Medical aid

Provident fund

Professional development

Zusammenfassung

Placements24 is seeking a Viticulture Specialist in Mossel Bay to lead sustainable vineyard operations and maximize grape quality for premium wines. You will work onsite with the winemaking team to implement planting, canopy, and harvest plans while driving data-driven decisions.

The role requires a degree in Viticulture or related field, 5+ years of hands-on vineyard experience, knowledge of pest/disease management, and proficiency with vineyard software. A valid driver’s licence is essential.

Qualifikationen

• Bachelor's degree in Viticulture or related field.
• Minimum 5 years hands-on vineyard management experience.
• Strong knowledge of grape physiology, pests, and sustainable viticulture.
• Experience with irrigation and fertigation systems in vineyards.
• Familiarity with Western Cape climate and soils.
• Proficiency with vineyard management software and data analysis.
• Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong leadership and communication abilities.
• Valid driver's licence.

Aufgaben

• Develop and implement vineyard management plans including pruning, canopy management, and shoot thinning.
• Monitor vine health, soil conditions, and grape development during the season.
• Apply integrated pest and disease management to minimize crop loss and environmental impact.
• Manage irrigation schedules and fertilization based on soil moisture data.
• Plan and supervise harvest for optimal ripeness and quality.
• Maintain records of vineyard activities, inputs, yields and quality parameters.
• Collaborate with winemaking team to ensure grape quality.
• Oversee vineyard staff and ensure safety and operations standards.
• Research and evaluate new grape varietals, clones, and vineyard technologies.

Kenntnisse

Vineyard management

Leadership

Data analysis

Communication

Decision making

Ausbildung

Bachelor's degree in Viticulture

Tools

Irrigation software

Pest & disease monitoring tools

Jobbeschreibung

About the Role

Our client, a renowned wine estate situated in the picturesque region of Mossel Bay, Western Cape , is actively seeking a dedicated Viticulture Specialist to join their esteemed team. This role is central to ensuring the production of premium grapes for winemaking, focusing on sustainable vineyard management, optimal grape quality, and yield maximization. The Viticulture Specialist will oversee all aspects of vineyard operations, from soil preparation and vine care to pest and disease management and harvest planning. The ideal candidate will possess a deep scientific understanding of grape growing, combined with practical experience in vineyard operations and a passion for producing high-quality fruit. This is an on-site position requiring a hands‑on approach and a commitment to excellence in viticulture. You will work closely with the winemaking team to align vineyard practices with desired wine styles.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and implement comprehensive vineyard management plans, including pruning, canopy management, and shoot thinning. Monitor vine health, soil conditions, and grape development throughout the growing season. Implement integrated pest and disease management strategies to minimize crop loss and environmental impact. Manage irrigation schedules and fertilization programs based on soil moisture data and vine needs. Plan and supervise the grape harvest, ensuring optimal ripeness and quality at picking. Conduct regular vineyard assessments and provide data‑driven recommendations for improvement. Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, inputs, yields, and quality parameters. Collaborate with the winemaking team to ensure grape quality meets the required specifications. Oversee vineyard staff, providing training and ensuring adherence to safety and operational standards. Research and evaluate new grape varietals, clones, and vineyard technologies.

Requirements

A degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Plant Science, Agriculture, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of hands‑on experience in vineyard management, preferably in a quality‑focused environment. Strong knowledge of grape physiology, vineyard pests and diseases, and sustainable viticultural practices. Experience with irrigation and fertigation systems in vineyards. Familiarity with the unique climate and soil conditions of the Western Cape region. Proficiency in vineyard management software and data analysis. Excellent organizational, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills. Strong leadership and communication abilities. A commitment to sustainable and environmentally responsible farming practices. Valid driver's license.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with potential bonuses tied to vineyard performance and grape quality. Benefits include medical aid contributions, a provident fund, and opportunities for professional development within the wine industry. This role provides an excellent opportunity to contribute to the production of world-class wines in a beautiful setting.