Viticulturist - Vineyard Management

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybride; ZAR 900 000 - 1 300 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Health insurance

Paid time off

Professional development

Access to cutting-edge viticultural工具

Résumé du poste

Placements24 is recruiting an experienced Viticulturist for a renowned Mossel Bay winery to oversee large vineyards and ensure premium grape quality. The role blends hands-on field leadership with strategic, remote planning and decision-making.

This hybrid position requires a deep scientific understanding of grape growing, strong management skills, and a commitment to sustainable viticulture, collaborating with winemakers across the vineyard team.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in viticulture or related field.
• At least 7 years' vineyard management experience.
• Deep knowledge of grape physiology and soil science.
• License to drive; ability to work in field and remotely for planning.

Responsabilités

• Develop and implement vineyard management plans for irrigation, fertilization, and pest/disease control.
• Monitor vine growth and grape development throughout the season.
• Oversee pruning, canopy management, and fruit thinning.
• Coordinate harvesting operations for quality grapes.
• Collaborate with winemakers to meet production standards.
• Maintain records of planting, treatments, and yield.

Connaissances

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Planning

Formation

Master's or PhD in Viticulture/Enology/Plant Science

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a renowned winery located in the scenic Mossel Bay region, is seeking an experienced Viticulturist to oversee their extensive vineyards. This critical role involves managing all aspects of grape cultivation, from soil preparation and vine care to harvesting, ensuring the highest quality grapes for premium wine production. The Viticulturist will employ advanced techniques in viticulture to maximize yield, optimize grape quality, and promote sustainable vineyard practices. This is a hybrid position, requiring significant time spent in the vineyards for hands-on management and operational oversight, with flexibility for administrative and planning tasks to be conducted remotely. You will be instrumental in maintaining the health and productivity of the vines, adopting innovative approaches to meet the challenges of modern viticulture. The ideal candidate possesses a deep scientific understanding of grape growing, practical vineyard experience, and strong leadership qualities. Your expertise will directly influence the quality and character of our client's acclaimed wines.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive vineyard management plans, including irrigation, fertilization, and pest/disease control strategies.
• Monitor vine growth, health, and grape development throughout the growing season.
• Manage vineyard operations, including pruning, canopy management, and fruit thinning.
• Oversee harvesting operations, ensuring timely and efficient collection of high-quality grapes.
• Implement sustainable viticulture practices to enhance soil health and environmental stewardship.
• Conduct research and trials on new grape varietals, rootstocks, and vineyard technologies.
• Manage vineyard staff, providing training, supervision, and performance evaluations.
• Maintain vineyard records, including planting details, treatments, and yield data.
• Collaborate with winemakers to ensure grape quality meets specific wine production requirements.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Viticulture, Enology, Plant Science, Agronomy, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in viticulture and vineyard management.
• In-depth knowledge of grape physiology, soil science, and pest/disease management specific to vineyards.
• Proven experience with irrigation management and water conservation techniques.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Familiarity with wine industry standards and quality control measures.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in both vineyard field settings and remotely for planning.
• Must possess a valid driver's license.
• Passion for winemaking and sustainable viticulture is essential.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package for this hybrid role.
• This includes health insurance, paid time off, and opportunities for professional development within the esteemed wine industry.
• You will work in a beautiful environment and be part of a company dedicated to producing exceptional wines.
• Access to cutting-edge viticultural tools and techniques is provided.
• Our client fosters a culture of excellence and innovation, offering a rewarding career path in one of South Africa's premier wine-producing regions.
• Enjoy the blend of field-based work and strategic planning that this role offers.