Irrigation Systems Engineer

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical and retirement benefits

Professional development & training

Travel allowances

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Irrigation Systems Engineer for Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. The role blends office-based design with on-site supervision across regional projects to optimize water use and crop yields.

The ideal candidate has a strong engineering background in hydraulics/hydrology and at least 5 years designing agricultural irrigation systems, with CAD proficiency (AutoCAD, IrriCAD) and field problem-solving experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering or Civil Engineering with water resources.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in designing and managing agricultural irrigation systems.
• Strong understanding of hydraulics, hydrology, fluid mechanics, and soil-water-plant relationships.
• Proficiency in CAD software for irrigation design (AutoCAD, IrriCAD).

Responsibilities

• Design and engineer irrigation systems (drip, micro-sprinkler, center pivot).
• Conduct site assessments, feasibility studies, and water resource evaluations.
• Calculate water requirements for crops and design efficient distribution systems.
• Select pumps, pipes, emitters, filters, and control systems.
• Prepare technical drawings, specifications, and cost estimates for projects.
• Oversee installation, commissioning, and testing of irrigation systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve irrigation system performance issues.
• Provide training to farm staff on operation and maintenance.

Skills

Hydraulics

Hydrology

Water resources

Irrigation design

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering

Civil Engineering (water resources)

Tools

AutoCAD

IrriCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural development company, is seeking an experienced Irrigation Systems Engineer to join their team based in **Nelspruit, Mpumalanga**. This role is crucial for designing, implementing, and managing efficient and sustainable irrigation systems for diverse agricultural projects in the region. You will be responsible for assessing water resources, designing irrigation layouts (drip, sprinkler, center pivot), selecting appropriate technologies, and overseeing the installation and commissioning of systems. The ideal candidate will possess a strong engineering background, a deep understanding of hydraulics, hydrology, and water management principles, coupled with practical experience in agricultural irrigation. This hybrid role involves office-based design and planning, as well as on-site supervision and problem-solving at project locations throughout **Nelspruit, Mpumalanga**. You will play a key role in optimizing water use efficiency, enhancing crop yields, and ensuring the long-term viability of agricultural operations through advanced irrigation solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and engineer various types of irrigation systems, including drip, micro-sprinkler, and center pivot systems.
• Conduct site assessments, feasibility studies, and water resource evaluations.
• Calculate water requirements for crops and design systems for optimal distribution and efficiency.
• Select appropriate pumps, pipes, emitters, filters, and control systems.
• Prepare technical drawings, specifications, and cost estimates for irrigation projects.
• Oversee the installation, commissioning, and testing of irrigation systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to irrigation system performance.
• Provide training and support to farm staff on the operation and maintenance of irrigation systems.
• Ensure compliance with water management regulations and best practices for sustainability.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering (with a focus on water resources), or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in the design and management of agricultural irrigation systems.
• Strong understanding of hydraulics, hydrology, fluid mechanics, and soil-water-plant relationships.
• Proficiency in CAD software for irrigation system design (e.g., AutoCAD, IrriCAD).
• Experience with different irrigation technologies and components.
• Knowledge of water management best practices and water conservation techniques.
• Excellent project management and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and in a team, including field visits in **Nelspruit, Mpumalanga**.
• Experience with variable rate irrigation is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and training on the latest irrigation technologies.
• Travel allowances for site visits.
• A significant role in enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability in the region.
• Be part of a leading company driving innovation in agricultural infrastructure in **Nelspruit, Mpumalanga**.