Lead Irrigation & Water Management Engineer

Placements24; Willows (CA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 66,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid and disability insurance

Retirement savings plan with employer

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Irrigation Engineer for our client in Welkom, Free State. The role focuses on designing, implementing, and managing advanced irrigation systems to optimize water use and crop yield.

You will work with farm managers and agronomists to assess needs, oversee installation and maintenance, and ensure environmental compliance. A strong background in hydraulics, water resource management, and soil science is essential, with ≈6 years of experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural or Civil Engineering with irrigation specialization.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience designing and managing irrigation systems in agriculture.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Civil 3D and irrigation design tools.
• Strong knowledge of hydraulics, fluid mechanics and water resource management.
• Hands-on experience with various irrigation technologies and their applications.
• Understanding of soil science and plant water requirements.
• Excellent project management and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and ability to liaise with stakeholders and field teams.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects.
• Valid driver's license for site visits.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement efficient irrigation systems for agricultural uses.
• Conduct site assessments based on soil type, topography, and crop needs.
• Manage installation, commissioning, and maintenance of irrigation infrastructure.
• Monitor system performance, troubleshoot issues and perform upgrades.
• Analyze water usage data to optimize schedules and conserve resources.
• Develop and manage budgets for irrigation projects and maintenance.
• Ensure compliance with local water regulations and environmental standards.
• Provide technical guidance and training to farm staff on system operation.
• Evaluate new irrigation technologies and water-saving techniques.
• Collaborate with agronomists and engineers to align irrigation with crop management.
• Prepare technical reports, specifications, and project documentation.
• Assess water sources (bores, rivers, dams) and design pumping/distribution solutions.

Skills

Hydraulics knowledge

Water resource management

Soil science understanding

Project management

Communication skills

Independent work

Driver's license

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering or Civil Engineering with irrigation specialization

Tools

AutoCAD

Civil 3D

Irrigation design software

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Irrigation Engineer for our client in Welkom, Free State. The role focuses on designing, implementing, and managing advanced irrigation systems to optimize water use and crop yield.

You will work with farm managers and agronomists to assess needs, oversee installation and maintenance, and ensure environmental compliance. A strong background in hydraulics, water resource management, and soil science is essential, with ≈6 years of experience.