Lead Agricultural Engineer - Irrigation Systems Design

Placements24; Riverton (UT); On-site; USD 55,000 - 73,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Company-provided vehicle

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Agricultural Engineer to spearhead the design and deployment of advanced irrigation systems in Upington, South Africa. You will drive hydraulic modeling, pump selection, and water distribution strategies, coordinating with agronomists and stakeholders to optimize crop productivity while meeting environmental standards.

The role requires a strong background in irrigation engineering, leadership skills, and a track record of delivering complex projects on time and within

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering, or related discipline.
• Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum 8 years in agricultural engineering with irrigation specialization.
• Proven project management experience with budgets and teams.
• Strong knowledge of fluid mechanics, hydraulics, and water resources.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and optimization of large-scale irrigation projects (drip, sprinkler, center-pivot).
• Conduct site assessments, feasibility studies, and cost-benefit analyses.
• Oversee procurement and installation of irrigation equipment with quality and timelines in mind.
• Develop and manage project budgets and resources; mentor engineers.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and water resource policies.
• Provide guidance on hydraulic modeling, pump selection, and water distribution networks.
• Collaborate with agronomists and stakeholders to tailor solutions.
• Implement and monitor water usage and system performance.

Skills

Project management

Hydraulics

Water resources

Communication

Negotiation

Sensor technologies

Automation

SCADA

Education

Bachelor's in Agricultural Engineering

Master's preferred

Engineering fundamentals

Tools

CAD software

EPANET

SWMM

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leading innovator in agricultural infrastructure, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Agricultural Engineer to spearhead the design and implementation of advanced irrigation systems in the arid regions of the Northern Cape . This role, based in the vibrant city of Upington , demands a visionary leader with a deep understanding of water management, hydraulic principles, and sustainable agricultural practices. The successful candidate will be instrumental in developing cutting-edge solutions that optimize water usage, enhance crop productivity, and address the unique challenges of farming in this environment. This is a fantastic opportunity to drive impactful change and shape the future of agriculture in South Africa , working within a company committed to technological excellence and environmental stewardship. The position is situated in Upington , a key agricultural hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of large-scale irrigation projects, including drip, sprinkler, and center-pivot systems.
• Conduct site assessments, feasibility studies, and cost-benefit analyses for new irrigation installations.
• Oversee the procurement and installation of irrigation equipment, ensuring adherence to quality standards and timelines.
• Develop and manage project budgets, resource allocation, and engineering teams.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental regulations and water resource management policies.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance on hydraulic modeling, pump selection, and water distribution networks.
• Collaborate with agronomists, farmers, and stakeholders to tailor irrigation solutions to specific crop and soil requirements.
• Implement and manage monitoring systems for water usage, system performance, and crop water stress.
• Stay current with emerging irrigation technologies, automation, and smart farming solutions.
• Mentor junior engineers and technical staff, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline.
• A Master's degree is preferred.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in agricultural engineering, with a specialization in irrigation system design and management.
• Demonstrated experience in project management, including budget and team leadership.
• Strong knowledge of fluid mechanics, hydraulics, and water resource engineering.
• Proficiency in CAD software and hydraulic modeling tools (e.g., EPANET, SWMM).
• Experience with sensor technologies, automation, and SCADA systems for irrigation control.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making abilities.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience working in arid or semi-arid agricultural environments, particularly within South Africa .
• A valid driver's license is required for site visits.

Benefits

• A highly competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and retirement plan contributions.
• Significant opportunities for professional development, certifications, and conference attendance.
• Lead challenging and impactful projects in a critical industry.
• Collaborative and innovative work culture.
• Relocation assistance for candidates relocating to Upington .
• Company-provided vehicle for business use.