Farm Operations Manager - Irrigation Specialist

Placements24; Centurion; Hybride; ZAR 700 000 - 900 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Retirement savings plan

Professional development

Annual leave

Performance bonuses

Résumé du poste

Placements24 is seeking a Farm Operations Manager with irrigation systems expertise for our Centurion, Gauteng operations. You will lead a team, design and implement irrigation strategies, and oversee budgets and maintenance of drip, sprinkler, and pivot systems.

You will work with agronomists to optimise crop growth, monitor water use and schedule irrigation to maximise efficiency while complying with regulations and environmental best practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, Water Resource Management, or a related field.
• 6+ years of experience in farm operations management with emphasis on irrigation and water management.
• Proven design, installation and maintenance experience with irrigation technologies.
• Strong understanding of soil science, plant physiology and water management.
• Experience with water conservation techniques and sustainable irrigation practices.
• Excellent leadership, organizational and problem‑solving skills.
• Proficiency in software for irrigation scheduling and water management.
• Ability to manage budgets and control costs.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills for team management and stakeholder engagement.

Responsabilités

• Develop and implement irrigation strategies tailored to diverse crop needs and environmental conditions.
• Oversee installation, operation and maintenance of drip, sprinkler, and centre pivot systems.
• Monitor water usage, soil moisture and weather to optimise irrigation schedules and conserve resources.
• Lead irrigation technicians and farm workers, providing training and supervision.
• Inspect irrigation infrastructure regularly and address inefficiencies.
• Collaborate with agronomists to ensure irrigation supports crop health.
• Manage budgets for irrigation equipment, maintenance and water expenses.
• Ensure compliance with water usage regulations and environmental best practices.
• Troubleshoot irrigation systems and water supply issues.
• Maintain accurate records of water usage and system performance.

Connaissances

Leadership

Team management

Problem solving

Communication

Water management

Formation

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering

Outils

Irrigation scheduling software

Budget management

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural enterprise, is seeking an accomplished Farm Operations Manager with specialized expertise in irrigation systems to join their dynamic team in Centurion, Gauteng . This role is essential for ensuring the efficient and effective management of water resources and irrigation infrastructure across our client's extensive farming operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for the strategic planning, implementation, and maintenance of advanced irrigation technologies, maximising water use efficiency and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. This is a challenging and rewarding position based in the agricultural heartland of Gauteng , requiring a deep understanding of agronomy, hydraulics, and farm management. You will lead a dedicated team, oversee daily operations, and contribute to the overall productivity and profitability of the farm. We are looking for a proactive individual with a proven ability to manage complex projects and deliver exceptional results in a fast-paced environment within Centurion .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive irrigation strategies tailored to diverse crop requirements and environmental conditions.
• Manage the installation, operation, and maintenance of all irrigation systems, including drip, sprinkler, and centre pivot systems.
• Monitor water usage, soil moisture levels, and weather patterns to optimise irrigation schedules and conserve water resources.
• Oversee a team of irrigation technicians and farm workers, providing training and supervision.
• Conduct regular inspections of irrigation infrastructure, identifying and addressing any issues or inefficiencies.
• Collaborate with agronomists to ensure irrigation practices support optimal crop growth and health.
• Manage budgets for irrigation equipment, maintenance, and water-related expenses.
• Ensure compliance with water usage regulations and environmental best practices.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to irrigation systems and water supply.
• Maintain accurate records of water usage, system performance, and maintenance activities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, Water Resource Management, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in farm operations management, with a strong emphasis on irrigation systems and water management.
• Proven expertise in designing, installing, and maintaining various types of irrigation technologies.
• Strong understanding of soil science, plant physiology, and their relationship with water management.
• Experience with water conservation techniques and sustainable irrigation practices.
• Excellent leadership, organisational, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in relevant software for irrigation scheduling and water management.
• Ability to manage budgets and control costs effectively.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills for team management and stakeholder engagement.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including occasional weekends, during peak seasons in Gauteng .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive health benefits, retirement savings plan, and opportunities for professional development in the field of agricultural water management.
• This role provides a chance to work with advanced irrigation technologies and contribute to sustainable farming practices in Centurion .
• You will be part of a growing company with a commitment to innovation and employee well-being.
• Additional benefits include annual leave, performance bonuses, and support for further education.