Viticulturist and Vineyard Manager

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 550,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Accommodation on or near the vineyard

Medical and retirement benefits

Professional development and travel

Unique working environment

Paid annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Viticulturist and Vineyard Manager to lead our client’s vineyard operations near Polokwane, Limpopo. You will plan and execute vineyard establishment, canopy management, irrigation, IPM, and harvest strategies to deliver premium grapes.

The role requires a degree in viticulture or related field and at least five years of progressive vineyard leadership experience, with strong data-driven decision making and staff supervision.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in viticulture, horticulture, agronomy, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years progressive viticulture and vineyard management experience.
• Experience with irrigation scheduling and water management in vineyards.
• Ability to lead staff and coordinate operations in field and office.
• Knowledge of climate considerations and pest/disease management is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of vineyard operations, from site selection and planting to harvest and post-harvest care.
• Develop and implement vineyard management plans, including pruning, trellising, canopy management, and shoot thinning.
• Manage irrigation systems to ensure optimal water availability for vines, considering climate and soil conditions.
• Implement integrated pest and disease management (IPM) strategies to protect the vineyard from threats while minimizing chemical interventions.
• Monitor vine health, grape development, and soil conditions, making data-driven decisions for crop management.
• Manage vineyard labor, providing training, supervision, and performance evaluation.
• Oversee vineyard block health, ensuring uniformity and quality of fruit.
• Conduct soil and tissue analysis and interpret results to guide fertilization and nutrient management.
• Stay abreast of the latest research and technological advancements in viticulture.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and sustainable farming practices.

Skills

Viticulture

Vineyard management

Irrigation scheduling

Data management

Leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Viticulture/Horticulture/Agronomy

Job description

About the Role Our client, a distinguished producer of premium wines, is seeking a highly skilled Viticulturist and Vineyard Manager to lead their operations in the renowned wine-growing region near Polokwane, Limpopo . This role is paramount to cultivating high-quality grapes that form the foundation of exceptional wines. The ideal candidate will possess comprehensive knowledge of grape vine physiology, vineyard establishment, soil management, pest and disease control, and canopy management. You will be responsible for the strategic planning and day-to-day management of the vineyards, ensuring optimal fruit production, quality, and sustainability. This position requires a blend of scientific expertise, practical vineyard experience, and strong leadership skills to manage vineyard staff and operations effectively. The role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the legacy of fine winemaking in Limpopo and advance your career within a respected agricultural enterprise.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of vineyard operations, from site selection and planting to harvest and post-harvest care.
• Develop and implement vineyard management plans, including pruning, trellising, canopy management, and shoot thinning.
• Manage irrigation systems to ensure optimal water availability for vines, considering climate and soil conditions.
• Implement integrated pest and disease management (IPM) strategies to protect the vineyard from threats while minimizing chemical interventions.
• Monitor vine health, grape development, and soil conditions, making data-driven decisions for crop management.
• Manage vineyard labor, providing training, supervision, and performance evaluation.
• Oversee vineyard block health, ensuring uniformity and quality of fruit.
• Conduct soil and tissue analysis and interpret results to guide fertilization and nutrient management.
• Stay abreast of the latest research and technological advancements in viticulture.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and sustainable farming practices.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agronomy, or a related agricultural science discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in viticulture and vineyard management.
• Demonstrated expertise in cool-climate or warm-climate viticulture, relevant to grape varietals grown in the region.
• Strong understanding of grape vine physiology, disease cycles, and pest management.
• Experience with irrigation scheduling and water management in vineyards.
• Proficiency in vineyard surveying, mapping, and data management.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively in both vineyard settings and an office environment.
• Knowledge of winemaking processes and grape quality parameters is advantageous.
• Valid driver's license required.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package reflecting experience and expertise.
• Accommodation on or near the vineyard.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and travel to wine industry events.
• A unique working environment in a beautiful wine-growing region.
• Paid annual leave.