Viticulturist - Vineyard Management

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and bonus

Medical aid

Accommodation on/near estate

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a passionate Viticulturist to manage all vineyard activities at a renowned wine estate in Sandton, Gauteng. The role demands hands-on leadership to ensure healthy vines, optimal canopy management, and high-quality grape production.

You will oversee planting, pruning, irrigation, soil health, and harvest coordination, while leading a team and maintaining detailed records. The ideal candidate has a strong viticultural background and a proactive attitude toward sustainable

Qualifications

• A degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in vineyard management.
• Comprehensive knowledge of grapevine physiology, disease and pest management, and sustainable viticultural practices.
• Experience with irrigation systems, vineyard machinery, and pruning techniques.
• Understanding of wine grape varietals and their growing requirements.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all vineyard operations, including planting, pruning, trellising, and irrigation management.
• Monitor vine health, identify diseases and pests, and implement organic or integrated management strategies.
• Manage soil health through fertilization and soil amendment programs.
• Plan canopy management techniques to optimize sunlight exposure and fruit development.
• Coordinate harvest activities and manage picking crews for quality fruit.
• Supervise and train vineyard staff, fostering a culture of care and precision.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, crop yields, and vineyard health assessments.
• Collaborate with the winemaker to ensure grape quality meets wine production requirements.

Skills

Viticulture

Leadership

Team management

Record-keeping

Canopy management

Education

Degree in Viticulture or related field

Tools

Irrigation systems

Vineyard machinery

Pruning techniques

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned wine estate located in the picturesque surroundings of Sandton, Gauteng, is seeking a highly skilled and passionate Viticulturist. This position is central to the estate's commitment to producing exceptional quality wines through meticulous vineyard management. You will be responsible for all aspects of grape cultivation, from soil preparation and vine health to canopy management and harvesting. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of viticultural science, a keen eye for detail, and a proactive approach to vineyard operations. This role requires a hands-on commitment to the vineyards, working closely with vineyard staff to ensure the health, productivity, and quality of the grapevines. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a legacy of winemaking excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all vineyard operations, including planting, pruning, trellising, and irrigation management.
• Monitor vine health, identify potential diseases and pests, and implement appropriate organic or integrated management strategies.
• Manage soil health through appropriate fertilization and soil amendment programs.
• Plan and execute canopy management techniques to optimize sunlight exposure and fruit development.
• Coordinate harvest activities, determining optimal ripeness and managing picking crews to ensure fruit quality.
• Supervise and train vineyard staff, fostering a culture of care and precision.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, crop yields, and vineyard health assessments.
• Collaborate with the winemaker to ensure grape quality meets the specific requirements for wine production.
• Manage vineyard budget and resources effectively.

Requirements

• A degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in vineyard management, with a strong track record of successful grape cultivation.
• Comprehensive knowledge of grapevine physiology, disease and pest management, and sustainable viticultural practices.
• Experience with irrigation systems, vineyard machinery, and pruning techniques.
• Understanding of wine grape varietals and their specific growing requirements.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent organizational and record-keeping abilities.
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and perform physically demanding tasks in Sandton, Gauteng.
• Passion for wine and a commitment to producing high-quality grapes.

Benefits

This role offers a competitive salary, annual performance bonus, and comprehensive medical aid benefits. You will also be provided with accommodation on or near the estate. Opportunities for professional development, including wine industry courses and international exposure, are available. Become part of a dedicated team at a prestigious wine estate, contributing to the creation of award-winning wines. The position requires full-time presence at the estate in Sandton, Gauteng.