Agricultural Water Management Specialist - Irrigation and Drainage

Placements24; Riverton (UT); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Agricultural Water Management Specialist to oversee irrigation and drainage systems in arid regions around Upington, Northern Cape. You will design, implement, and optimize irrigation infrastructure and advise on water conservation strategies.

The role requires strong hydrology/engineering background, experience with GIS/CAD, and ability to work in remote field locations with diverse stakeholders. Competitive salary and growth opportunities available.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural/ Civil Engineering with water focus or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in agricultural water management, irrigation design and drainage systems.
• Experience with irrigation technologies and water conservation techniques.
• Strong understanding of hydrology, soil science and environmental impact.

Responsibilities

• Design, plan and supervise installation and maintenance of irrigation systems.
• Develop drainage strategies to prevent waterlogging and salinization.
• Conduct water resource assessments and conservation strategies.
• Monitor water quality and soil moisture; optimize water application.

Skills

Irrigation design

Hydrology

Project management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering or Civil Engineering (water focus)

Tools

CAD

GIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural development entity, is seeking a skilled Agricultural Water Management Specialist to oversee irrigation and drainage systems in the challenging arid and semi-arid regions around Upington, Northern Cape . This role is critical for ensuring the efficient and sustainable use of scarce water resources in agriculture. You will be responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and optimization of irrigation and drainage infrastructure, as well as advising on water conservation strategies. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background in hydrology, agricultural engineering, and practical experience with water management technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, plan, and supervise the installation and maintenance of efficient irrigation systems (e.g., drip, sprinkler, center pivot).
• Develop and implement effective drainage strategies to prevent waterlogging and soil salinization.
• Conduct water resource assessments and develop strategies for water conservation and efficient utilization.
• Monitor water quality and soil moisture levels, making recommendations for optimal water application.
• Operate and maintain pumps, control systems, and other irrigation and drainage equipment.
• Analyze data from water meters, sensors, and weather stations to optimize irrigation schedules.
• Provide technical guidance and training to farmers and farm managers on best water management practices.
• Ensure compliance with water use regulations and environmental standards.
• Collaborate with government agencies, research institutions, and other stakeholders on water resource management issues.
• Troubleshoot issues related to irrigation and drainage systems and implement corrective actions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering (with water focus), Agronomy, or Environmental Science.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in agricultural water management, irrigation design, and drainage systems.
• Proven experience with various irrigation technologies and water conservation techniques.
• Strong understanding of hydrology, soil science, and the impact of water management on crop production and environment.
• Proficiency in using water management software, CAD software, and GIS is highly desirable.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and be prepared for fieldwork in remote agricultural areas within the Northern Cape .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, and retirement benefits.
• This role provides significant opportunities to work on critical water management projects in an area facing water scarcity.
• You will have access to professional development and training to stay updated with the latest water management technologies.
• The company fosters a collaborative and results-oriented work environment.
• This position offers a chance to make a lasting positive impact on agricultural sustainability and water resource security in the region.