Irrigation Specialist - Mpumalanga

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 350,000 - 550,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Irrigation Specialist to design, install, and optimize irrigation systems across Mpumalanga's agricultural sector. The role blends on-site assessments with remote planning and system design using specialized software.

You will work with farmers and agronomists to tailor solutions, monitor water use, and troubleshoot issues, traveling regularly to farm sites while coordinating from a planning hub.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in irrigation design, installation, and maintenance.
• Ability to read site plans, topo maps, and technical drawings.
• Proficiency with irrigation design software and tools.

Responsibilities

• Design and plan irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler, center pivot) based on crop needs.
• Oversee installation of new irrigation systems.
• Inspect and maintain existing irrigation infrastructure.
• Troubleshoot and repair system malfunctions.
• Monitor water use and optimize efficiency and conservation.
• Calibrate equipment and ensure accurate water application.
• Advise clients on best water management practices.
• Prepare system performance and maintenance reports.
• Collaborate with agronomists to align irrigation with crop needs.

Skills

Irrigation systems knowledge

Site interpretation

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Education

Technical qualification or degree in agriculture/engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

Irrigation design tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a skilled Irrigation Specialist to join their team, serving the vital agricultural sector of Mpumalanga . This hybrid role requires a professional who can provide expert on-site assessments and installations, as well as remote consultation and system design. You will be responsible for designing, installing, maintaining, and optimizing irrigation systems to ensure efficient water use and maximum crop yield. The ideal candidate possesses a strong technical background in irrigation technology, a deep understanding of water management principles, and the ability to apply this knowledge to diverse agricultural settings. You will work closely with farmers, farm managers, and agronomists to develop tailored irrigation solutions that meet specific crop needs and water availability constraints. This position demands both practical field skills and the analytical capability to design and troubleshoot complex systems. The role involves regular travel to various farm sites within the region, combined with remote work for planning, reporting, and system design using specialized software. We are looking for a dedicated professional committed to water conservation and sustainable agricultural practices. Your expertise will be crucial in helping farms maximize productivity while minimizing water resource impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and plan irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler, center pivot) based on crop requirements, soil types, and topography.
• Oversee and participate in the installation of new irrigation systems.
• Conduct regular inspections and maintenance of existing irrigation infrastructure.
• Troubleshoot and repair irrigation system malfunctions.
• Monitor water usage and recommend strategies for optimizing efficiency and conservation.
• Calibrate irrigation equipment and ensure accurate water application.
• Advise clients on best practices for water management and irrigation scheduling.
• Keep abreast of new irrigation technologies and water management techniques.
• Prepare reports on system performance, water usage, and maintenance activities.
• Collaborate with agronomists and crop specialists to align irrigation strategies with crop needs.

Requirements

• Proven experience as an Irrigation Specialist, Technician, or in a related field within agriculture.
• Strong knowledge of various irrigation systems, components, and their operation.
• Understanding of hydraulics, soil science, and crop water requirements.
• Proficiency in using irrigation design software (e.g., AutoCAD, specialized irrigation design tools).
• Ability to read and interpret site plans, topographical maps, and technical drawings.
• Excellent problem-solving and diagnostic skills.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Willingness to travel frequently to farm sites across the Mpumalanga region.
• Ability to manage tasks both on-site and remotely for reporting and design.
• A relevant technical qualification or degree in agriculture, engineering, or a related field is preferred.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement fund contributions. This hybrid role provides the flexibility of remote work for design and administrative tasks, combined with essential on-site work for installations and field support. You will have the opportunity to work with modern irrigation technologies and contribute to water sustainability in the agricultural sector of South Africa. Professional development opportunities, including training on new irrigation systems and technologies, will be provided. Work in a dynamic environment where your expertise directly impacts farm productivity and resource management. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on work combined with technical design and problem-solving. Join a reputable company dedicated to advancing agricultural efficiency.

• Medical aid
• Retirement fund contributions
• Professional development opportunities