Viticulture Specialist - Wine Estate Operations

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Highly competitive salary and benefits

Performance-based bonuses and profit分享

Access to world-class winemaking facl.

International travel opportunities

Company housing or housing allowance

Wine and estate product discounts

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an expert Viticulture Specialist to oversee all vineyard operations in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You will manage grapevines from planting to harvest, implementing cutting-edge viticultural practices and ensuring premium wine grapes.

Responsibilities include developing vineyard plans, monitoring vine health, irrigation, pest control, yield forecasting, staff supervision, and compliance with environmental standards.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Viticulture, Horticulture or related field required.
• Minimum 6 years in viticulture with premium wine grape vineyard experience.
• Deep knowledge of Western Cape varietals and terroir influences.
• Leadership and communication skills for managing vineyard staff.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute vineyard management plans from planting to harvest.
• Monitor vine health, soil, water status, and nutrient levels.
• Oversee integrated pest and disease control using sustainable methods.
• Manage irrigation systems and optimize water use.
• Forecast yields and coordinate harvest with the winemaking team.
• Supervise vineyard staff and enforce safety protocols.
• Maintain records of vineyard activities and performance data.
• Research and implement innovative viticultural techniques.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and environmental regulations.

Skills

Vineyard management

Team leadership

Soil science

Pest management

Education

Master’s degree in Viticulture or related field

Tools

GIS mapping

Irrigation scheduling

Data analysis

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious wine estate located in the heart of the Cape Winelands, is seeking an expert Viticulture Specialist to oversee all vineyard operations in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This critical role involves the management of grapevines, from planting and cultivation through to harvest, ensuring the production of premium quality grapes for winemaking. You will be responsible for implementing cutting-edge viticultural practices, soil management, irrigation, pest and disease control, and yield optimization. This position is integral to the Agriculture & Forestry sector, focusing on a high-value agricultural product. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of grape growing specific to the maritime climate and terroir of the region, and a passion for producing exceptional wine grapes.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive vineyard management plans, including planting, pruning, canopy management, and shoot thinning.
• Monitor vine health, soil conditions, water status, and nutrient levels, implementing corrective actions as needed.
• Manage integrated pest and disease control programs, employing sustainable and environmentally friendly methods.
• Oversee irrigation systems, ensuring efficient water use tailored to vine requirements throughout the growing season.
• Conduct detailed yield forecasting and harvest planning, coordinating with the winemaking team.
• Supervise vineyard staff, providing training, setting performance standards, and ensuring safety protocols are followed.
• Manage vineyard equipment maintenance and operation.
• Maintain accurate records of all vineyard activities, input applications, and performance data.
• Research and implement innovative viticultural techniques to enhance grape quality and vineyard sustainability.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant industry standards and environmental regulations.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or equivalent in Viticulture, Horticulture, Plant Science, or a related agricultural discipline.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in viticulture, with a proven track record in managing premium wine grape vineyards.
• In-depth knowledge of grape varietals suitable for the Western Cape region and specific terroir influences.
• Expertise in vine physiology, soil science, pest and disease management, and irrigation scheduling.
• Experience with vineyard mapping, data analysis, and precision agriculture techniques.
• Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a challenging outdoor environment and manage seasonal demands.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the estate's properties.
• A passion for wine and an understanding of the winemaking process is highly advantageous.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and benefits package, commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonuses and potential for profit sharing.
• Access to world-class winemaking facilities and expertise.
• Opportunities for international travel and professional development.
• Company-provided housing or housing allowance.
• A stimulating work environment in a renowned wine-producing region.
• Employee discounts on wine and estate products.