Agricultural Engineer - Irrigation Specialist

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote options

Travel allowances

Professional development opportunities

Flexible working arrangements

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Agricultural Engineer specialized in irrigation systems to design, implement, and optimize advanced irrigation for diverse agricultural operations in Centurion, Gauteng, with flexi remote options and travel to project sites across South Africa.

The role requires strong hydraulics, water management, soil science, and crop water requirements knowledge, plus CAD experience and willingness to travel for site work.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering or Civil Engineering with water resources.
• Minimum of 6 years hands-on experience in design, installation, and management of agricultural irrigation systems.
• Registration with ECSA as Pr. Eng or Pr. Tech. Eng is highly advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop detailed plans for irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler, center pivot, etc.).
• Conduct site assessments and feasibility studies for irrigation projects.
• Specify and select irrigation equipment, pumps, filters, and control systems.
• Oversee installation and commissioning of irrigation systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to irrigation performance.
• Optimize irrigation systems for water use efficiency and energy conservation.
• Prepare technical reports and documentation for clients and stakeholders.
• Stay updated on irrigation tech and regulations.
• Collaborate with agronomists and farmers for integrated design.
• Provide technical training and support to clients on operation and maintenance.

Skills

Hydraulics

Problem-solving

Project management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering

Civil Engineering with water resources specialization

Tools

CAD software

Water flow modeling

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a forward-thinking agricultural solutions provider looking for a highly skilled Agricultural Engineer with a specialization in irrigation systems. This position will be based in the **Centurion, Gauteng** area, with the potential for remote work and travel to project sites across various regions. The successful candidate will be instrumental in the design, implementation, and optimization of advanced irrigation systems for diverse agricultural operations. This role requires a deep understanding of hydraulics, water management, soil science, and crop water requirements. You will be responsible for assessing client needs, developing innovative and cost-effective irrigation solutions, and ensuring their efficient operation. This is an exciting opportunity to work with leading-edge technology and contribute to sustainable water use in agriculture. We are seeking an engineer who is passionate about solving complex challenges and improving agricultural efficiency through smart irrigation. Join our team and help shape the future of water management in farming, impacting operations across South Africa and beyond, with a focus on the **Centurion, Gauteng** region's agricultural development.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop detailed plans for irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler, center pivot, etc.) tailored to specific crop and soil conditions.
• Conduct site assessments and feasibility studies for new irrigation projects in various locations.
• Specify and select appropriate irrigation equipment, pumps, filters, and control systems.
• Oversee the installation and commissioning of irrigation systems, ensuring compliance with design specifications.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to irrigation system performance and maintenance.
• Optimize existing irrigation systems for water use efficiency and energy conservation.
• Prepare technical reports, proposals, and documentation for clients and project stakeholders.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in irrigation technology, water management practices, and relevant regulations.
• Collaborate with agronomists, farmers, and other engineers to ensure integrated system design.
• Provide technical training and support to clients on the operation and maintenance of irrigation systems.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering with a specialization in water resources, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of hands‑on experience in the design, installation, and management of agricultural irrigation systems.
• Strong knowledge of hydraulics, fluid mechanics, and water resource management principles.
• Familiarity with different irrigation technologies and their applications.
• Experience with CAD software for irrigation design and water flow modeling.
• Understanding of South African agricultural conditions and water management challenges.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and project management skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly.
• Willingness to travel to project sites as required.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng) or Technologist (Pr. Tech. Eng) registration with ECSA is highly advantageous.

Benefits

• Highly competitive contract rate.
• Opportunity to work on diverse and impactful agricultural projects.
• Flexible working arrangements, including remote options.
• Exposure to cutting‑edge irrigation technologies.
• Travel allowances and per diems for site visits.
• Potential for long‑term engagement based on performance.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Contribution to sustainable agriculture and water conservation initiatives.
• Collaborative and innovative team environment.
• Significant influence on project outcomes.