Viticulture Technician

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive training

Career advancement

Wine tastings

Annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is partnering with a prestigious winery in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, to recruit a Viticulture Technician. You will work with the viticulturist to monitor vineyard health, manage irrigation, control pests and diseases, and optimize grape yield and quality in a hands-on role.

The ideal candidate holds a diploma or degree in viticulture or related field and has 2–3 years of practical vineyard experience.

Qualifications

• Diploma or degree in viticulture or related field.
• 2–3 years vineyard experience, ideally Stellenbosch.
• Knowledge of grapevine physiology, pests and diseases, and irrigation.
• Valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Assist in vineyard management plans: pruning, training, canopy management.
• Monitor vine health, identify pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies, and recommend treatments.
• Manage irrigation systems for optimal water usage for vine growth and grape quality.
• Conduct regular vineyard walks to assess grape development, ripeness, and vine condition.
• Assist in harvesting operations, ensuring grapes are picked at optimal maturity.
• Collect and record data on vineyard performance, soil conditions, weather patterns, and pest/disease incidence.
• Operate and maintain vineyard machinery, including tractors, sprayers, and harvesters.
• Collaborate with the winemaking team to understand grape quality requirements and achieve desired wine styles.
• Implement sustainable viticultural practices and safety protocols.

Skills

Viticulture

Pest management

Irrigation management

Data collection

Machinery operation

Teamwork

Education

Diploma in Viticulture

Degree in Agriculture

Horticulture diploma

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious winery in the renowned Stellenbosch wine region of the Western Cape , is seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Viticulture Technician. This role is integral to the vineyard management team, focusing on the meticulous cultivation of grapevines to ensure the production of premium quality wines. The successful candidate will work closely with the viticulturist, applying technical expertise to monitor vineyard health, manage irrigation, control pests and diseases, and optimize grape yield and quality. This is a hands-on role that requires a passion for viticulture and a keen eye for detail within one of South Africa's most celebrated wine-producing areas. You will be instrumental in maintaining the high standards of excellence for which the winery is known.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the implementation of vineyard management plans, including pruning, training, and canopy management.
• Monitor vine health, identify pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies, and recommend appropriate treatments.
• Manage irrigation systems, ensuring optimal water usage for vine growth and grape quality.
• Conduct regular vineyard walks to assess grape development, ripeness, and overall vine condition.
• Assist in harvesting operations, ensuring grapes are picked at optimal maturity.
• Collect and record data on vineyard performance, soil conditions, weather patterns, and pest/disease incidence.
• Operate and maintain vineyard equipment, including tractors, sprayers, and harvesters.
• Collaborate with the winemaking team to understand grape quality requirements and achieve desired wine styles.
• Implement sustainable and environmentally friendly viticultural practices.
• Adhere to strict safety protocols in all vineyard operations.

Requirements

• Diploma or Degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agriculture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2-3 years of practical experience in vineyard management or viticulture, ideally within the Stellenbosch region.
• Strong understanding of grapevine physiology, pest and disease management, and irrigation techniques.
• Experience with vineyard machinery operation and maintenance.
• Ability to collect and analyze vineyard data accurately.
• Good observational skills and attention to detail.
• Physically fit and able to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Team player with good communication skills.
• Knowledge of sustainable viticultural practices.
• Valid driver's license.

Benefits

• This position offers a competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
• Employees will receive comprehensive training in advanced viticultural techniques and opportunities for career advancement within the wine industry.
• The role provides the unique benefit of working in the heart of the picturesque Stellenbosch wine region, surrounded by world-class vineyards.
• We also offer access to the company's own wine tastings and events.
• Generous annual leave entitlement.
• This is a fantastic opportunity for a budding viticulturist to grow their career with a leading producer.