Irrigation Systems Engineer

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 500,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Annual bonuses

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Irrigation Systems Engineer for a hybrid role based in Vereeniging. You will design, implement and optimize advanced irrigation systems for diverse agricultural operations, assessing client needs and developing detailed plans.

You will oversee installation, provide ongoing technical support and ensure efficient water management and crop health. The ideal candidate has a degree in engineering, 5+ years’ experience in irrigation design and strong hydraulics

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field.
• Minimum 5 years designing and managing agricultural irrigation systems.
• Strong knowledge of hydraulics, fluid mechanics and water resource management.
• Experience with pump selection, pipeline design, and water control systems.

Responsibilities

• Design and engineer customized irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler, center pivot).
• Prepare drawings, specs and cost estimates for projects.
• Select irrigation components, pumps, pipes, and control systems.
• Oversee installation and commissioning, ensuring quality per design.
• Conduct site assessments and provide water management recommendations.
• Troubleshoot system performance issues.
• Develop maintenance plans and train farm personnel.
• Stay updated on irrigation tech and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with project managers, clients and contractors.
• Ensure designs comply with engineering standards and regulations.

Skills

Irrigation design

Project management

Hydraulics

CAD (AutoCAD)

Field and office work

Travel within Gauteng

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural/Mechanical/Civil Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading provider of agricultural infrastructure solutions, is seeking an experienced Irrigation Systems Engineer for a hybrid role based in Vereeniging. This position focuses on the design, implementation, and optimization of advanced irrigation systems for various agricultural operations. You will be responsible for assessing client needs, developing detailed engineering plans, overseeing installation projects, and providing ongoing technical support to ensure efficient water management and crop health. The ideal candidate possesses a strong engineering background with specialized knowledge in hydraulics, water management technologies, and sustainable irrigation practices. This role is crucial for supporting the productivity and resilience of farms in the region. You will work closely with farmers, agronomists, and construction teams to deliver state-of-the-art irrigation solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and engineer customized irrigation systems, including drip, sprinkler, and center pivot systems.
• Prepare detailed drawings, specifications, and cost estimates for irrigation projects.
• Select appropriate irrigation components, pumps, pipes, and control systems.
• Oversee the installation and commissioning of irrigation systems, ensuring quality and adherence to design.
• Conduct site assessments and provide technical recommendations for water management and conservation.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to irrigation system performance.
• Develop maintenance plans and provide training to farm personnel on system operation.
• Stay updated on new irrigation technologies, water-saving techniques, and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with project managers, clients, and contractors to ensure project success.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant engineering standards and environmental regulations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in the design and management of agricultural irrigation systems.
• Strong knowledge of hydraulics, fluid mechanics, and water resource management.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD) for irrigation system design.
• Experience with pump selection, pipeline design, and water control systems.
• Understanding of soil-water-plant relationships and crop water requirements.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and project management skills.
• Ability to work effectively in both field and office settings (hybrid model).
• Good communication and interpersonal skills for client interaction and team collaboration.
• Valid driver's licence and willingness to travel within the Gauteng region and surrounding areas.

Benefits

• This hybrid position offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid, a provident fund, and annual bonuses.
• Opportunities for professional development, including specialized training in irrigation technology and certifications, are provided.
• The hybrid work model offers a good work-life balance.
• You will be working with a dynamic team on innovative projects that contribute to water efficiency in agriculture.
• Our client fosters a culture of continuous improvement and employee growth.
• Access to advanced design tools and resources is guaranteed.
• This role provides the opportunity to make a significant impact on agricultural sustainability.