Viticulturist - Premium Vineyard Operations

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 360,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Vineyard tours

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Viticulturist to manage and enhance premium vineyards in Paarl, Western Cape. You will lead canopy management, irrigation, pest control, and harvest planning to ensure consistent grape quality for award-winning wines.

The role blends hands-on vineyard work with remote data analysis and reporting from the estate office. The ideal candidate has a strong background in viticulture, sustainability, and team leadership, with a passion for wine and an eye for

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agronomy, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years in vineyard management, preferably in premium wine grape production.
• Strong knowledge of grape physiology, soil science, entomology, and plant pathology.
• Proven ability to manage vineyard teams and operations.
• Experience with irrigation systems and water management.
• Familiarity with IPM and sustainable farming practices.
• Excellent understanding of quality assessment of grapes for winemaking.

Responsibilities

• Manage all day-to-day operations of the premium vineyards in Paarl, Western Cape, ensuring optimal grape quality and yield.
• Develop and implement detailed vineyard management plans, including pruning, canopy management, shoot thinning, and leaf removal.
• Oversee irrigation scheduling based on soil moisture monitoring and crop needs, promoting water efficiency.
• Implement IPM strategies to minimize chemical inputs and ensure vine health.
• Manage vineyard staff, providing training, supervision, and performance feedback.
• Monitor soil health, nutrient levels, and vine performance, addressing issues.
• Plan and coordinate harvesting activities to ensure optimal grape ripeness and quality for winemaking.
• Maintain accurate records of vineyard activities, inputs, yields, and observations for analysis and reporting.
• Collaborate with the winemaking team to align vineyard practices with winery objectives and grape quality requirements.
• Stay updated on the latest viticultural research, technologies, and sustainable practices.

Skills

Viticulture

Canopy management

IPM

Team leadership

Irrigation management

Grape quality assessment

Communication skills

Driver's license

Education

Bachelor's degree in Viticulture/Horticulture/Agronomy

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious wine estate renowned for its exceptional quality, is seeking an experienced Viticulturist to manage and enhance their premium vineyards in Paarl, Western Cape . This role is integral to ensuring the cultivation of superior grapes that form the foundation of their award-winning wines. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of vineyard operations, from canopy management and irrigation to pest control and harvesting, with a strong focus on quality and sustainability. The position involves a hybrid work model, combining hands-on vineyard management and team leadership on-site with strategic planning, data analysis, and reporting conducted remotely or from the estate office. Located in the heart of the winelands, this is a unique opportunity to work with world-class varietals and contribute to the legacy of a leading South African wine producer. The ideal candidate will possess a deep passion for viticulture and a meticulous approach to grape cultivation.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all day-to-day operations of the premium vineyards in Paarl, Western Cape , ensuring optimal grape quality and yield.
• Develop and implement detailed vineyard management plans, including pruning, canopy management, shoot thinning, and leaf removal.
• Oversee irrigation scheduling based on soil moisture monitoring and crop needs, promoting water efficiency.
• Implement integrated pest and disease management (IPM) strategies to minimize chemical inputs and ensure vine health.
• Manage vineyard staff, providing training, supervision, and performance feedback to ensure high standards of work.
• Monitor soil health, nutrient levels, and vine performance, making informed decisions to address any issues.
• Plan and coordinate harvesting activities to ensure optimal grape ripeness and quality for winemaking.
• Maintain accurate records of vineyard activities, inputs, yields, and observations for analysis and reporting.
• Collaborate closely with the winemaking team to align vineyard practices with winery objectives and grape quality requirements.
• Stay updated on the latest viticultural research, technologies, and sustainable practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agronomy, or a related agricultural science.
• Minimum of 5 years of practical experience in vineyard management, preferably in premium wine grape production.
• Strong knowledge of grape vine physiology, soil science, entomology, and plant pathology.
• Proven ability to manage vineyard teams and operations effectively.
• Experience with irrigation systems and water management techniques.
• Familiarity with IPM principles and sustainable farming practices.
• Excellent understanding of quality assessment of grapes for winemaking.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively.
• Valid driver's license and a passion for wine and viticulture.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, with potential for bonuses based on vineyard performance and grape quality. Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits are provided. Opportunities for professional development, including industry courses and vineyard tours, are available. Enjoy working in a beautiful wine estate environment with access to excellent facilities. Be part of a team dedicated to producing world-class wines. This role offers a chance to truly make your mark in the South African wine industry.