Agricultural Engineer - Irrigation Systems Design

Placements24; United States; Hybrid; USD 36,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work

Company vehicle

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Conference attendance

Exposure to innovative water tech

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Agricultural Engineer to lead the design and implementation of advanced irrigation systems. The role blends on-site fieldwork with office-based design and analysis to optimize water use and crop hydration across projects in the Free State region.

You will apply fluid dynamics, soil science, and agricultural machinery expertise, managing projects from concept to commissioning while coordinating with agronomists and clients and ensuring compliance with environmental and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years' experience designing and implementing agricultural irrigation systems.
• Proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks) for irrigation layouts.
• Strong hydraulics and soil–plant–water relationships knowledge.
• Experience with irrigation technologies and water management techniques.
• Excellent project management, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to conduct field surveys and site assessments.
• Knowledge of local water resources in the Free State is a plus.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) or eligibility is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop efficient irrigation systems including drip, sprinkler, and center pivot systems.
• Conduct site assessments to determine optimal irrigation system layouts based on topography, soil type, and crop water requirements.
• Prepare detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and project proposals.
• Manage irrigation projects from conception to completion, including procurement, installation, and commissioning.
• Oversee the installation process, ensuring adherence to design specifications and quality standards.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to irrigation system performance and maintenance.
• Collaborate with agronomists, farm managers, and clients to understand their needs and provide tailored solutions.
• Stay current with advancements in irrigation technology, water conservation methods, and agricultural engineering principles.
• Ensure compliance with relevant engineering standards, environmental regulations, and water management policies.

Skills

Project management

Hydraulics

Communication

Field surveys

Irrigation scheduling

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

SolidWorks

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural solutions provider based in Welkom, Free State, is seeking a skilled Agricultural Engineer to spearhead the design and implementation of advanced irrigation systems. This role is critical for enhancing water use efficiency and ensuring optimal crop hydration across various agricultural projects in the region. You will be responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and overseeing the installation of state-of-the-art irrigation networks, utilizing your expertise in fluid dynamics, soil science, and agricultural machinery. The ideal candidate possesses a strong technical background, excellent project management skills, and a passion for sustainable water management in agriculture. This hybrid role allows for significant on-site fieldwork combined with office-based design and analysis within Welkom.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop efficient and cost-effective irrigation systems, including drip, sprinkler, and center pivot systems.
• Conduct site assessments to determine optimal irrigation system layouts based on topography, soil type, and crop water requirements.
• Prepare detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and project proposals.
• Manage irrigation projects from conception to completion, including procurement, installation, and commissioning.
• Oversee the installation process, ensuring adherence to design specifications and quality standards.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to irrigation system performance and maintenance.
• Collaborate with agronomists, farm managers, and clients to understand their needs and provide tailored solutions.
• Stay current with advancements in irrigation technology, water conservation methods, and agricultural engineering principles.
• Ensure compliance with relevant engineering standards, environmental regulations, and water management policies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in the design and implementation of agricultural irrigation systems.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks) for designing irrigation layouts.
• Strong understanding of hydraulics, soil-plant-water relationships, and irrigation scheduling.
• Experience with various irrigation technologies and water management techniques.
• Excellent project management, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to conduct field surveys and site assessments.
• Knowledge of local water resources and agricultural practices in the Free State province is a plus.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) or eligibility for registration is advantageous.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for project-based bonuses.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility.
• Company vehicle for site visits and project supervision.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement plan.
• Professional development opportunities and conference attendance.
• Exposure to innovative water management technologies.
• Supportive team environment and challenging projects.