Agricultural Water Resource Manager

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington, South Africa seeks an experienced Agricultural Water Resource Manager to lead sustainable water use for crop irrigation in a water-scarce environment. You will oversee source management, distribution systems, irrigation scheduling, and conservation in a dynamic, field‑based setting.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor’s in a water-focused discipline, at least six years’ experience in agricultural water resource management, knowledge of irrigation technologies, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a water-focused field as listed.
• Minimum 6 years of experience in water resource management in agriculture.
• Experience with irrigation systems and water management technologies.
• Familiarity with SA water policies and Northern Cape regulations.
• Experience with data analysis and water management software.
• Strong problem-solving, planning and organizational skills.
• Strong communication and negotiation abilities.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to spend time on sites.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement integrated water resource management plans for agricultural operations.
• Oversee operation and maintenance of water sources, pumps, pipelines, and distribution networks.
• Design and optimize irrigation schedules based on crop water needs and weather data.
• Implement water conservation strategies and technologies to minimize usage.
• Monitor water quality and salinity levels to meet agricultural standards.
• Ensure compliance with local and national water regulations and policies.
• Analyze water usage data to identify inefficiencies and improvements.
• Manage budgets related to water infrastructure and energy consumption.
• Liaise with water authorities, research institutions, and stakeholders.
• Train farm staff on water management best practices and irrigation system operation.

Skills

Data analysis

Problem-solving

Planning

Organizational skills

Communication

Negotiation

Independent work

Driver's license

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering / Civil Eng (water focus) / Hydrology / Agronomy

Tools

Water management software

Irrigation systems (drip/pivot/micro-irrigation)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a large-scale agricultural operation in the arid **Upington, Northern Cape** region, is seeking an experienced Agricultural Water Resource Manager. This vital role focuses on the sustainable and efficient management of water resources critical for crop irrigation in a water-scarce environment. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of water usage, from source management and distribution systems to irrigation scheduling and water conservation techniques. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of hydrology, irrigation technology, and water policy, coupled with practical experience in agricultural settings. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the long‑term viability of agriculture in a challenging but productive region. Your expertise will directly impact crop yields, operational costs, and environmental stewardship in the **Northern Cape**. We are looking for a proactive and detail‑oriented professional committed to optimizing water use in agriculture.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement integrated water resource management plans for agricultural operations.
• Oversee the operation and maintenance of water sources, pumps, pipelines, and distribution networks.
• Design and optimize irrigation schedules based on crop water requirements, weather data, and soil moisture monitoring.
• Implement water conservation strategies and technologies to minimize water usage.
• Monitor water quality and salinity levels, ensuring they meet agricultural standards.
• Ensure compliance with local and national water usage regulations and policies.
• Analyze water usage data to identify inefficiencies and recommend improvements.
• Manage budgets related to water infrastructure, energy consumption, and water acquisition.
• Liaise with water authorities, research institutions, and other stakeholders.
• Train farm staff on water management best practices and the operation of irrigation systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering (with water focus), Hydrology, Agronomy, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in water resource management, preferably within an agricultural context.
• Proven expertise in irrigation systems (e.g., drip, pivot, micro-irrigation) and water management technologies.
• Strong understanding of hydrology, hydraulics, and water‑use efficiency principles.
• Familiarity with water policies and regulations in **South Africa**, particularly in the **Northern Cape**.
• Experience with data analysis and water management software is essential.
• Excellent problem-solving, planning, and organizational skills.
• Strong communication and negotiation abilities.
• Ability to work independently and manage complex projects.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to spend significant time on operational sites.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package reflective of the expertise required for this role.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits are provided.
• Opportunities for professional development and training in water management technologies are available.
• This position offers the chance to play a critical role in ensuring sustainable agriculture in a water-sensitive region.