Agricultural Engineer - Irrigation Systems Design

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid contributions

Provident fund

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Agricultural Engineer with irrigation expertise for a hybrid role based in Soweto, Gauteng. You will design, plan and implement advanced irrigation solutions across various projects, collaborating with farmers and clients to optimize water use and crop yields.

The role requires a strong technical background, problem-solving abilities, and hands-on site work complemented by office design tasks and client consultations in the Soweto region.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering with agricultural focus, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in the design and implementation of agricultural irrigation systems.
• Proficiency in CAD software and irrigation design tools.
• Strong understanding of hydraulics, hydrology, soil science, and crop water requirements.
• Experience with water resource management and conservation techniques.
• Excellent project management, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for client interaction and team collaboration.
• Ability to conduct site visits and fieldwork in and around Soweto, Gauteng.

Responsibilities

• Design and engineer efficient irrigation systems, including drip, sprinkler, and center pivot systems.
• Conduct site assessments to evaluate soil conditions, water availability, topography, and crop water requirements.
• Prepare detailed technical drawings, specifications, and tender documents for irrigation projects.
• Manage the installation and commissioning of irrigation systems, ensuring adherence to design specifications and quality standards.
• Troubleshoot and provide technical support for existing irrigation infrastructure.
• Conduct feasibility studies and cost-benefit analyses for proposed irrigation projects.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in irrigation technology, water management practices, and relevant regulations.
• Collaborate with other engineers, agronomists, and stakeholders to ensure integrated project delivery.
• Train clients and field staff on the operation and maintenance of irrigation systems.

Skills

Hydraulics

Project management

Communication

Site visits

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering or Civil Engineering with agricultural focus

Tools

AutoCAD

AutoCAD Civil 3D

IrriMaker

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading consultancy firm specializing in agricultural infrastructure, is seeking an experienced Agricultural Engineer with expertise in irrigation systems. This role, based in **Soweto, Gauteng**, will involve the design, planning, and implementation of advanced irrigation solutions for a diverse range of agricultural projects across the region. You will work on projects aimed at optimizing water usage, improving crop yields, and promoting sustainable land management practices. The position requires a strong technical background, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with clients, farmers, and project teams. This hybrid role allows for office-based design work and client consultations, balanced with site visits to ensure successful project execution in and around **Soweto, Gauteng**.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and engineer efficient and sustainable irrigation systems, including drip, sprinkler, and center pivot systems.
• Conduct site assessments to evaluate soil conditions, water availability, topography, and crop water requirements.
• Prepare detailed technical drawings, specifications, and tender documents for irrigation projects.
• Manage the installation and commissioning of irrigation systems, ensuring adherence to design specifications and quality standards.
• Troubleshoot and provide technical support for existing irrigation infrastructure.
• Conduct feasibility studies and cost-benefit analyses for proposed irrigation projects.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in irrigation technology, water management practices, and relevant regulations.
• Collaborate with other engineers, agronomists, and stakeholders to ensure integrated project delivery.
• Train clients and field staff on the operation and maintenance of irrigation systems.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering with an agricultural focus, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in the design and implementation of agricultural irrigation systems.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD) and irrigation design software (e.g., AutoCAD Civil 3D, IrriMaker).
• Strong understanding of hydraulics, hydrology, soil science, and crop water requirements.
• Experience with water resource management and conservation techniques.
• Excellent project management, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for client interaction and team collaboration.
• Ability to conduct site visits and fieldwork in various agricultural settings in and around **Soweto, Gauteng**.
• Professional registration with ECSA (Engineering Council of South Africa) or eligibility for registration is an advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including a performance-based incentive scheme.
• Benefits include medical aid contributions, a provident fund, and generous annual leave.
• The hybrid work arrangement provides a balance between office-based tasks and the flexibility to conduct essential site assessments.
• Professional development opportunities, including specialized training and conference attendance, are encouraged.
• Join a respected firm dedicated to advancing agricultural infrastructure and sustainability.