Viticulturist - Vineyard Management & Quality Control

Placements24; Benoni; In loco; ZAR 450.000 - 750.000; Tempo pieno

Vantaggi offerti da questo lavoro

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Generous leave allowances

Professional development opportunities

Descrizione del lavoro

Placements24 is sourcing a seasoned Viticulturist for a renowned wine estate near Benoni. The role oversees the end-to-end grape production, from vineyard setup and maintenance to harvest logistics, ensuring premium grape quality for winemaking.

You will apply sustainable viticulture practices, monitor vine health, and collaborate with the winemaking team to achieve targeted grape characteristics. This hands-on position emphasizes leadership, fieldwork, and adherence to health, safety, and

Competenze

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agronomy, or related field.
• Minimum 6 years of vineyard management and grape production experience.
• Experience with cool-climate or warm-climate viticulture depending on local conditions.
• Experience with different grape varietals and their growing requirements.
• Strong knowledge of soil science, plant physiology, and entomology/pathology relating to grapevines.

Mansioni

• Developing and implementing vineyard management plans including pruning, trellising, and canopy management.
• Monitoring vine health, pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies using sustainable methods.
• Conducting soil and leaf tissue analyses to inform nutrient strategies.
• Managing irrigation systems for optimal vine hydration.
• Overseeing vineyard staff, training, and task execution.
• Planning and managing the grape harvest to optimize Brix, pH, and acidity.

Conoscenze

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Vineyard mapping

Data management

Formazione

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Viticulture

Related field: Horticulture/Agronomy

Strumenti

Vineyard mapping software

Data management software

GIS

Descrizione del lavoro

About the Role

Our client, a renowned wine estate situated in the fertile plains near Benoni , is seeking an experienced and passionate Viticulturist to lead their vineyard operations. This crucial role involves the meticulous management of the entire grape-growing process, from vineyard establishment and maintenance to grape quality assessment and harvest logistics. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of viticultural science, sustainable farming practices, and the specific environmental factors influencing grape quality for premium wine production. You will be responsible for ensuring the health and productivity of the vines, optimizing grape composition, and working closely with the winemaking team. This is a hands‑on position for someone dedicated to producing exceptional grapes and contributing to the estate's legacy of quality. You will be instrumental in shaping the future character of the wines produced by the estate.

Key Responsibilities

• Developing and implementing vineyard management plans, including pruning, trellising, and canopy management.
• Monitoring vine health, identifying and managing pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies using sustainable methods.
• Conducting regular soil and leaf tissue analysis to inform nutrient management strategies.
• Managing irrigation systems to ensure optimal vine hydration.
• Overseeing vineyard staff, providing training, and ensuring efficient execution of tasks.
• Planning and managing the grape harvest, ensuring optimal Brix, pH, and acidity levels.
• Collaborating with the winemaking team to meet specific grape quality targets.
• Implementing and maintaining sustainable and environmentally friendly viticultural practices.
• Managing vineyard records, including block performance, inputs, and yield data.
• Ensuring compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree or Master's degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agronomy, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in vineyard management and grape production.
• In-depth knowledge of cool-climate or warm-climate viticulture, depending on local conditions.
• Experience with various grape varietals and their specific growing requirements.
• Strong understanding of soil science, plant physiology, and entomology/pathology related to grapevines.
• Proficiency in vineyard mapping and data management software.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and perform physically demanding tasks.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel occasionally for industry events or supplier visits around Benoni .
• Passion for wine and a commitment to producing high-quality grapes.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience, including performance-based incentives. Comprehensive benefits include medical aid, a retirement fund, and generous leave allowances. Opportunities for professional development, attending international viticulture seminars, and career growth within a prestigious wine estate are provided. This is a permanent, on-site role in the Benoni region, offering a unique and rewarding career in the South African wine industry.