PURPOSE OF A JOB DESCRIPTION
A job description provides clarity to both the employer and employee within an organisation on the main duties, expextations and key performance areas. The below described job description is only as applicable to the requirements of the current oparational structure and is not only a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities for the appointed employee. The employee agrees to perform other duties outside the limitations of the described job description when requested / instructed to do so, provided that the employee is capable and that such duties or/ and instuctions falls within the law.
Qualification:
- Degree or diploma in Viticulture, Agriculture, or Oenology
- 3–7 years vineyard management experience
- Valid driver’s licence
- Strong understanding of irrigation, pest management, and canopy practices
- Computer literacy and record-keeping ability
- Record-keeping on WineMS
Functional Knowledge:
- Strong leadership and decision-making ability
- Excellent observational and problem-solving skills
- Planning and organisational capability
- Passion for wine quality and sustainable farming
- Ability to work under pressure during harvest
Daily Duties:
- Oversee the day-to-day operations of the vineyard, including planting, training, pruning, and harvesting grapevines.
- Monitor and manage soil health, irrigation systems, and water usage to optimize vine growth and grape quality.
- Implement integrated pest management strategies, monitor for potential threats, and apply sustainable treatments to protect vine health.
- Track weather conditions and adjust vineyard practices to mitigate potential risks from climate variations, ensuring optimal conditions for grape growth.
- Assist in designing and developing new vineyard sites, including vine selection, trellis systems, and irrigation systems
- Stay updated with the latest viticulture trends, techniques, and scientific developments, incorporating new practices to enhance vineyard performance.
- Promote and implement sustainable viticulture practices, including organic and biodynamic farming methods, where applicable.
- Ensure all farm activities are up to date and managed. Equipment all in working order and serviced, work allocated to staff accordingly, farm always kept clean and neat.
- Prepare and manage vineyard budgets and input costs, maintain accurate vineyard records and reports.
- Monitor productivity, yields, and operational efficiency.
- Record all cost regarding each vineyard block to ensure accurate reporting and costing on wines and grapes.
- Identify and secure high-quality vineyard sources from external growers that meet estate specifications and style requirements.
- Conduct vineyard site evaluations and assess potential grower partners for long-term quality alignment.
- Maintain close communication and technical support for contract growers, ensuring adherence to estate quality and sustainability standards
- Assist with Trade shows, tastings, social events where needed.
- Collaborate with Winemaker on wine style and desired quality outputs. This is measurable through accurate decision making throughout the growing cycle to reflect these desired styles and quality outcomes. Sourcing of external vineyard/managment thereof must also reflect the desired outcomes.
- Co-ordination of growers picking schedules, labour, transport and picking container allocation during harvest to ensure seamless logistics.
Work Location: In person
