Agricultural Engineer - Irrigation Systems Design

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Performance bonuses

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Agricultural Engineer with specialization in irrigation systems design for a hybrid role based in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. You will plan, design and oversee efficient irrigation solutions across agricultural projects, collaborating with farmers, agronomists, and project managers to optimize water use and crop productivity.

The ideal candidate has a solid background in hydraulics, hydrology, soil-water relationships and hands-on experience with drip, sprinkler and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural or Civil Engineering with hydraulics focus.
• 6+ years designing and managing agricultural irrigation systems.
• Experience with irrigation design software (AutoCAD, Civil 3D).
• Strong hydraulics, hydrology, soil science, and crop water knowledge.
• Experience with pumping systems and various irrigation tech.
• Analytical, problem-solving and project management skills.
• Good communication for client and team interactions.
• Knowledge of SA water policies; Mpumalanga experience advantageous.
• Willingness to conduct fieldwork and hold a valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Design and engineer irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler, center pivot) for crops and soils.
• Run site assessments, feasibility studies, and water requirement calculations.
• Prepare design plans, specifications, and BOQs for irrigation infra.
• Oversee installation and commissioning, ensuring design compliance.
• Provide technical support and troubleshoot existing systems.
• Evaluate new irrigation tech and water-saving methods.
• Collaborate with clients, contractors, and regulators throughout projects.
• Ensure designs meet water management and environmental standards.
• Develop training materials and train farmers on operation and maintenance.
• Contribute to R&D in advanced irrigation and water management.

Skills

Irrigation design

Hydraulics

Hydrology

Project management

AutoCAD/Civil 3D

Fieldwork

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering

Civil Engineering ( hydraulics )

Tools

AutoCAD

Civil 3D

Irrigation CAD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural development firm, is seeking a highly competent Agricultural Engineer with specialized expertise in irrigation systems design . Based in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga , this role will involve the planning, design, and oversight of efficient and sustainable irrigation solutions for a range of agricultural projects. You will work closely with farmers, agronomists, and project managers to develop systems that optimize water usage and enhance crop productivity. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of fluid mechanics, hydraulics, soil-water-plant relationships, and various irrigation technologies, including drip, sprinkler, and center pivot systems. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to water resource management and agricultural advancement in a region known for its significant agricultural output. The position is hybrid, allowing for a blend of field-based work and office-based design and analysis.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and engineer efficient irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler, center pivot, etc.) tailored to specific crop and soil conditions.
• Conduct site assessments, feasibility studies, and water requirement calculations for proposed irrigation projects.
• Prepare detailed design plans, specifications, and Bill of Quantities (BOQs) for irrigation infrastructure.
• Oversee the installation and commissioning of irrigation systems, ensuring quality and adherence to design specifications.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting for existing irrigation systems.
• Evaluate and recommend new irrigation technologies and water-saving techniques.
• Collaborate with clients, contractors, and regulatory bodies throughout project lifecycles.
• Ensure designs comply with relevant water management regulations and environmental standards.
• Develop training materials and conduct training sessions for farmers on irrigation system operation and maintenance.
• Contribute to research and development in advanced irrigation and water management solutions.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering (with a focus on hydraulics), or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of professional experience in designing and managing agricultural irrigation systems.
• Proven expertise in irrigation design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D, irrigation specific CAD tools).
• Strong understanding of hydraulics, hydrology, soil science, and crop water requirements.
• Experience with various irrigation technologies and pumping systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills for client and team interaction.
• Familiarity with South African water resource management policies and agricultural practices in Mpumalanga is advantageous.
• Ability to conduct fieldwork in various agricultural settings.
• A valid driver's license is required.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and performance bonuses. The hybrid work model provides flexibility, combining essential fieldwork with office-based responsibilities in Nelspruit . Opportunities for professional development, including specialized training and attendance at industry conferences, are provided. Our client is committed to sustainable water management and innovation in agricultural engineering. You will join a respected organization known for its impactful projects and supportive work culture.