About Company
Orange River Cellars is one of South Africa’s largest wine producers, nestled along the banks of the mighty Orange River in the Northern Cape. With a proud heritage dating back decades, we are a cooperative winery dedicated to producing exceptional wines from a diverse range of grape varietals. Our commitment extends from sustainable viticulture practices to empowering our local communities and delivering quality products to markets worldwide. We embrace innovation while honouring tradition, striving for excellence in every bottle. Join our team and be part of a legacy of passion, quality, and community.
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Job Description
Orange River Cellars is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Vineyard Supervisor to join our team, overseeing operations across multiple vineyard sites within the Augrabies region. While this role is primarily remote for administrative, planning, and data analysis tasks, it requires frequent and mandatory on-site travel to our various vineyards to provide direct supervision, conduct inspections, and ensure optimal vine health and yield. The successful candidate will leverage technology to monitor vineyard conditions, coordinate teams, and manage resources efficiently from a remote base, while maintaining a strong physical presence for critical operational oversight. You will be instrumental in implementing viticultural best practices, managing seasonal cycles, and leading our vineyard teams to achieve production targets and quality standards. This unique work model offers flexibility in administrative duties combined with the essential hands-on leadership required in a dynamic agricultural environment. We are looking for a proactive leader with deep viticultural knowledge, excellent communication skills, and the ability to manage diverse teams across geographical distances, ensuring consistency and excellence in our grape production. As a Vineyard Supervisor, you will play a pivotal role in the success of our viticultural operations. You will be responsible for the strategic planning and execution of all vineyard activities, from pruning and canopy management to irrigation, pest and disease control, and harvest coordination. This role demands a blend of analytical prowess, utilizing remote monitoring tools and data to inform decisions, and practical, boots-on-the-ground supervision. You will develop and implement annual viticultural plans, manage budgets, oversee equipment maintenance, and ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations. A key aspect of this role involves mentoring and developing vineyard staff, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence. The ideal candidate will be adept at problem-solving, capable of adapting to changing environmental conditions, and committed to upholding the high standards of Orange River Cellars. This is an exciting opportunity for a seasoned viticulturist who thrives on leadership, innovation, and the challenge of managing complex operations across multiple sites with a blend of remote and on-site engagement.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement comprehensive annual viticultural plans, including pruning, trellising, irrigation, and fertilization schedules.
- Provide remote oversight and direct on-site supervision of vineyard teams across multiple locations in the Augrabies region.
- Utilize remote sensing technologies and data analytics to monitor vineyard health, soil conditions, and water usage, making data-driven decisions.
- Manage and coordinate all seasonal vineyard activities, ensuring timely and efficient execution in line with production targets and quality standards.
- Implement and monitor pest and disease management programs, ensuring sustainable and effective control measures.
- Oversee the maintenance and operation of vineyard machinery and equipment, ensuring safety and efficiency.
- Recruit, train, and manage vineyard staff, fostering a productive and safe working environment.
- Monitor vineyard budgets, control costs, and manage resources effectively.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
- Prepare regular reports on vineyard performance, yield projections, and quality assessments for management.
- Coordinate with winemakers and cellar teams to ensure optimal grape quality at harvest.
- Continuously research and implement best practices in viticulture to improve efficiency and grape quality.
Required Skills
- Proven experience in vineyard management or supervision.
- Strong knowledge of viticultural practices, including pruning, irrigation, canopy management, and pest/disease control.
- Proficiency in using vineyard management software and remote monitoring tools (e.g., GIS, weather stations, drone imagery).
- Excellent leadership and team management abilities, including remote team coordination.
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills in dynamic agricultural environments.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities effectively.
- Valid South African driver's license and willingness to travel frequently within the Augrabies region.
- Fluency in English and Afrikaans.
Preferred Qualifications
- A degree or diploma in Viticulture, Agriculture, Horticulture, or a related field.
- Experience with organic or sustainable viticulture practices.
- Knowledge of South African wine industry standards and regulations.
- Familiarity with budget management and financial reporting in an agricultural context.
- Certification in pesticide application or related agricultural safety.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package.
- Opportunities for professional development and growth within a leading wine producer.
- Flexible work arrangements for administrative tasks (remote).
- Company vehicle for on-site travel or generous travel allowance.
- Comprehensive medical aid and provident fund benefits.
- Generous annual leave.
- Access to employee discounts on Orange River Cellars products.
- A collaborative and supportive work environment.
How to Apply
To apply for this unique opportunity, please click on the application link below. Ensure your CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and how you meet the requirements of this remote-with-travel Vineyard Supervisor role are attached.
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