Irrigation Systems Engineer - Northern Cape Projects

Placements24; Riverton (UT); Hybrid; USD 36,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Irrigation Systems Engineer to design, implement, and optimize irrigation solutions for agricultural clients in the Northern Cape region, with a hybrid work arrangement near Upington. The role emphasizes hydraulics, water management, and integration with crop practices.

You will collaborate with farmers and agronomists, manage projects, and support on-site and remote operations across drip, sprinkler, and center-pivot systems.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or higher in engineering with irrigation specialization.
• 5+ years designing, installing and managing agricultural irrigation systems.
• Strong knowledge of hydraulics, fluid mechanics and water management.
• Proficiency with irrigation design software and hydraulic modeling.
• Experience with drip, micro-sprinkler and center pivot systems.
• Hybrid work model experience and willingness to travel within the Northern Cape.

Responsibilities

• Design and engineer efficient irrigation systems, including layout and calculations.
• Oversee installation and commissioning per design specs.
• Conduct site assessments and feasibility studies for new projects.
• Develop irrigation schedules based on crop water requirements and conditions.
• Troubleshoot issues and support remote monitoring systems.
• Provide training and support to clients on operation and maintenance.
• Collaborate with agronomists to integrate irrigation with crop management.
• Research and recommend new irrigation technologies and water-saving methods.
• Ensure compliance with engineering standards and regulations.

Skills

Irrigation design

AutoCAD

Irri-CAD

Hydraulics

Project management

Remote monitoring

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering

Civil/Mechanical engineering with irrigation specialization

Tools

AutoCAD

Irri-CAD

Hydraulic modeling tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading provider of advanced agricultural water management solutions, is seeking a skilled Irrigation Systems Engineer . This hybrid role will involve designing, implementing, and optimizing irrigation systems for agricultural clients across the Northern Cape province, with a base near Upington . You will leverage your engineering expertise to develop efficient and sustainable water application strategies, focusing on maximizing water use efficiency and crop yield. The role requires a blend of technical design skills, project management capabilities, and the ability to provide on-site support and remote monitoring. You will work closely with farmers, agronomists, and project teams to ensure the successful deployment and operation of state-of-the-art irrigation technologies, including drip, sprinkler, and center pivot systems. The ideal candidate is passionate about water conservation and agricultural technology, with a strong understanding of hydraulics, soil-plant-water relationships, and irrigation scheduling. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to water security and agricultural productivity in a vital arid region.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and engineer efficient irrigation systems, including layout, component selection, and hydraulic calculations.
• Oversee the installation and commissioning of irrigation systems, ensuring compliance with design specifications.
• Conduct site assessments and feasibility studies for new irrigation projects.
• Develop irrigation schedules based on crop water requirements, soil type, and environmental conditions.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues with existing irrigation systems.
• Implement and manage remote monitoring and control systems for irrigation infrastructure.
• Provide technical training and support to clients on the operation and maintenance of irrigation systems.
• Collaborate with agronomists to integrate irrigation strategies with crop management practices.
• Research and recommend new irrigation technologies and water-saving techniques.
• Ensure compliance with relevant engineering standards and environmental regulations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field with a specialization in irrigation.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in the design, installation, and management of agricultural irrigation systems.
• Strong understanding of hydraulics, fluid mechanics, and water management principles.
• Proficiency in irrigation design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Irri-CAD) and hydraulic modeling tools.
• Experience with various irrigation methods (drip, micro-sprinkler, center pivot).
• Knowledge of soil-plant-water relationships and irrigation scheduling.
• Excellent project management and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, balancing remote design work with on-site field operations.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaise with diverse stakeholders.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the Northern Cape region.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with your engineering expertise and experience.
• This hybrid role provides a dynamic work environment, combining office-based design with field implementation.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement plan options are available.
• Opportunities for professional development, including specialized training in water management technologies and certifications.
• Travel expenses for field operations are covered.
• Contribute to significant agricultural development projects in the Northern Cape .
• Access to advanced design tools and technologies.
• Paid annual leave and sick leave.
• Be part of a leading company dedicated to sustainable agriculture and water resource management.