Agricultural Engineer - Irrigation Systems Specialist

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Medical and retirement benefits

Professional development opportunities

Water sustainability projects

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Agricultural Engineer specializing in irrigation in Paarl, Western Cape. You will design and optimize water management solutions for farms, leveraging hydraulics and agronomy to boost efficiency and sustainability.

The role involves both fieldwork and design work at the Paarl office, with remote analysis and client consultations. A relevant engineering degree and 4+ years of irrigation experience are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering or Civil Engineering with an agricultural focus.
• Minimum 4 years of irrigation system design, installation, and management.
• Strong hydraulics, soil-water-plant relations, and water management knowledge.
• Proficiency in CAD software and irrigation design tools.
• Experience with water resource management and crop water requirements.
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler, pivot) tailored to crop/soil needs.
• Conduct site assessments and feasibility studies for irrigation projects.
• Oversee installation and commissioning of systems.
• Analyze water usage and soil moisture to optimize irrigation schedules.
• Troubleshoot and maintain irrigation infrastructure for performance.
• Research new technologies like sensor networks and automated controls.
• Prepare drawings, specifications, and project documentation.
• Collaborate with farmers, agronomists and stakeholders to define needs.
• Ensure compliance with water conservation regulations and environmental standards.
• Provide technical support and training to clients and field teams.

Skills

Hydraulics

Irrigation design

Water management

CAD (AutoCAD)

Data analysis

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering

Civil Engineering with agricultural focus

Tools

AutoCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural technology firm in **Paarl, Western Cape**, is looking for a talented Agricultural Engineer specializing in irrigation systems. This role is vital for designing, implementing, and optimizing water management solutions for farms across the region. The successful candidate will leverage engineering principles and agricultural science to enhance water use efficiency, crop yields, and environmental sustainability. This hybrid position allows for fieldwork and design work at the **Paarl** office, complemented by remote analysis and client consultations. Join a team that is shaping the future of water-smart agriculture in **South Africa**.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop efficient irrigation systems, including drip, sprinkler, and pivot systems, tailored to specific crop and soil needs.


• Conduct site assessments and feasibility studies for new irrigation projects.


• Oversee the installation and commissioning of irrigation systems.


• Analyze water usage data and soil moisture monitoring to optimize irrigation schedules and water application.


• Troubleshoot and maintain existing irrigation infrastructure to ensure optimal performance.


• Research and integrate new technologies, such as sensor networks and automated control systems.


• Prepare technical drawings, specifications, and project documentation.


• Collaborate with farmers, agronomists, and other stakeholders to understand their needs and provide solutions.


• Ensure compliance with water conservation regulations and environmental standards.


• Provide technical support and training to clients and field teams.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering with an agricultural focus, or a related field.


• Minimum of 4 years of experience in irrigation system design, installation, and management.


• Strong understanding of hydraulics, soil-water-plant relationships, and water management principles.


• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD) and relevant irrigation design software.


• Experience with water resource management and conservation techniques.


• Knowledge of different crop water requirements.


• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.


• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective client and team interaction.


• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a hybrid work environment.


• Familiarity with the agricultural landscape of the **Western Cape** is highly desirable.

Benefits

• An attractive annual salary of R .


• Hybrid work model offering flexibility between office and remote work.


• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.


• Continuous professional development opportunities.


• Opportunity to work on innovative projects that promote water sustainability in agriculture.


• Be part of a company driving technological advancements in **Paarl**.