Job Description

ViticulturistA highly respected research organisation in the fruit industry offers scientific research, technology development and commercial services in the agricultural sector. Pre- and post-harvest technology development aimed at quality maintenance of produce and optimized crop yield are their focus areas. They are now hiring a Viticulturist. The prime purpose of this position will be to independently conduct viticulture research in the field of pre- and post-harvest fruit physiology and pathology.Conduct commercial agricultural services as required, source new clients and engage with various table grape producers across South Africa. The ideal candidate must be a team player who holds an Masters (Viticulture and/or Horticultural Science) or other applicable qualification. Preferably, the incumbent will have five years viticultural research experience.The following attributes and skills are preferential:

• Be a self-starter and an independent worker driven by an internalized ambition
• Good project management skills are essential
• Strategic thinker, innovative and creative
• Have excellent interpersonal, communication and analytical skills
• Be a self-starter, innovative and creative
• Hardworking, responsible and passionate
• Ability to conduct physical demanding fieldwork
• Deadline driven
• Building and maintaining client relationship
• Willingness to travel across South Africa
• Computer literate (Microsoft Word, Excel and Powerpoint)
• Have their own transport and driver's license
• Be fully bilingual in Afrikaans and English

Key performance areas entail:

• Planning, execution and examination of research projects
• Layout and execution of pre-harvest spray trials, laboratory and storage trials
• Data assessment, analysis using statistical programmes and report writing
• Operational assistance in research and services programmes of other researchers
• External business procurement and development
• Candidates that have a good understanding of the table grape industry
• Candidates with a tertiary qualification or relevant experience in viticulture, post-harvest practices

The development of pre-and post-harvest technologies are aimed at quality maintenance of produce and optimization of yield.

Agrijob