Viticulturist - Premium Wine Estates, Stellenbosch

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 540,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement fund

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dedicated Viticulturist for premium Stellenbosch vineyards. The role is field-intensive with on-site presence, focusing on canopy management, irrigation, pest control, and harvest planning to deliver top-quality grapes for renowned wines.

With 5+ years in viticulture and a degree in Viticulture/Horticulture, you will lead vineyard operations, collaborate with winemakers, and manage staff, ensuring sustainable practices and regulatory compliance across the estate.

Qualifications

• A degree or diploma in Viticulture, Horticulture, Oenology, or a related agricultural science.
• Minimum 5 years of practical viticulture experience, preferably in premium wine production.
• Deep knowledge of vine physiology, soil science and pest/disease management.
• Experience managing vineyard staff and operations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily vineyard operations, ensuring vineyard health and productivity.
• Develop and implement comprehensive vineyard management plans including pruning, training, canopy management, and shoot thinning.
• Manage irrigation systems to optimize water use and vine performance.
• Monitor vineyards for pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies, implementing IPM and sustainable practices.
• Plan and supervise harvest activities, ensuring optimal grape quality and timing.
• Manage vineyard staff, providing training and supervision to ensure efficient and safe execution of tasks.
• Conduct soil analysis and nutrient management planning.
• Collaborate with winemakers to ensure grape quality meets wine production requirements.
• Maintain accurate records of all vineyard activities, inputs, and yields.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and environmental standards.

Skills

Grape growing

Soil management

Vineyard operations

Irrigation management

Pest and disease control

IPM implementation

Staff supervision

Record keeping

Communication skills

Education

Viticulture/Horticulture/Oenology degree

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a dedicated Viticulturist for premium Stellenbosch vineyards. The role is field-intensive with on-site presence, focusing on canopy management, irrigation, pest control, and harvest planning to deliver top-quality grapes for renowned wines.

With 5+ years in viticulture and a degree in Viticulture/Horticulture, you will lead vineyard operations, collaborate with winemakers, and manage staff, ensuring sustainable practices and regulatory compliance across the estate.