Viticulturist - Vineyard Management & Quality Control

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; Hybrid; ZAR 480,000 - 720,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Wine discounts

Job summary

Placements24 in Kimberley, Northern Cape seeks an experienced Viticulturist to lead vineyard operations, oversee soil preparation, vine nutrition, irrigation, pest management and harvest planning with an emphasis on sustainability and yield optimization.

You will supervise staff, coordinate with winemakers on grape quality requirements, maintain detailed vineyard records, explore innovative viticultural techniques, and ensure environmental and safety compliance across the estate.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
• Minimum 6 years of progressive viticulture and vineyard management experience.
• Knowledge of Northern Cape grape varietal cultivation.
• Experience with precision viticulture and vineyard mapping is desirable.
• Proficient in managing pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies in vineyards.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent leadership and team management capabilities.
• Strong communication with technical and non-technical staff.
• Flexible hours during peak seasons.
• Valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Develop vineyard management plans to optimize grape quality and yield.
• Monitor vine health, soil conditions, and microclimates.
• Manage irrigation systems for efficient water use.
• Implement pest and disease management strategies.
• Oversee pruning, canopy management, and shoot thinning.
• Coordinate and supervise vineyard staff.
• Maintain vineyard records and harvest data.
• Collaborate with winemakers on grape quality needs.
• Research and implement innovative viticultural techniques.
• Ensure compliance with environmental and safety standards.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Viticulture/Horticulture/Agricultural Science

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned vineyard estate, is seeking an experienced and dedicated Viticulturist to join their team in the scenic Kimberley, Northern Cape region. This role focuses on the meticulous management of vineyards to ensure the production of premium quality grapes for winemaking. You will oversee all aspects of vineyard operations, from soil preparation and vine nutrition to pest management and harvesting, with a strong emphasis on sustainable practices and yield optimization. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of grape varietal characteristics, climate influence, and soil science, coupled with practical vineyard management experience. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the legacy of fine wines from a prestigious winery in the Northern Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Developing and implementing vineyard management plans to achieve optimal grape quality and yield.
• Monitoring vine health, soil conditions, and microclimates throughout the growing season.
• Managing irrigation systems to ensure efficient water use and plant hydration.
• Implementing integrated pest and disease management strategies to protect the vineyard.
• Overseeing pruning, canopy management, and shoot thinning activities.
• Coordinating and supervising vineyard staff, ensuring adherence to best practices.
• Managing vineyard records, including block management, input usage, and harvest data.
• Collaborating with winemakers to understand grape quality requirements.
• Researching and implementing innovative viticultural techniques and technologies.
• Ensuring compliance with environmental and safety standards within the vineyard.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in viticulture and vineyard management.
• Demonstrated knowledge of grape varietal cultivation specific to the conditions of the Northern Cape .
• Experience with precision viticulture techniques and vineyard mapping is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in managing vineyard pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent leadership and team management capabilities.
• Effective communication skills with both technical and non-technical personnel.
• Ability to work flexible hours, particularly during peak seasons.
• A valid driver's license.

Benefits

• We offer a competitive salary package, ranging from ZAR per annum , commensurate with experience.
• This position includes comprehensive medical aid, a retirement fund contribution, and opportunities for professional development within the wine industry.
• Employees will also benefit from access to the estate's facilities and discounts on wine purchases.