Irrigation Systems Engineer - Agricultural Water Management

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Irrigation Systems Engineer to design and optimize irrigation solutions for farms around Randburg. The role blends office design work with on-site implementation, focusing on drip, sprinkler, and center-pivot systems to improve water efficiency and crop yields.

Ideal candidates have a strong engineering background, knowledge of agronomy, and a proven track record in irrigation projects. Travel to client sites and a valid driving license are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Agricultural/Mechanical/Civil) or related field.
• A minimum of 5 years designing and implementing agricultural irrigation systems.
• Proven expertise in drip, sprinkler, and center pivot methods.
• Strong fluid mechanics, hydraulics and water resource knowledge.
• Proficient in CAD tools (AutoCAD) and irrigation design software.
• Understanding of agronomy and crop water requirements.
• Excellent problem solving, analytical, and project management skills.
• Willingness to travel to client sites; valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Design and engineer efficient irrigation systems with pumps, pipes, emitters, and controllers.
• Conduct site surveys and analyze soils, topography and crop water needs.
• Develop hydraulic calculations and system layouts for projects.
• Prepare technical specs, drawings, and cost estimates.
• Oversee installation and commissioning of irrigation systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues in irrigation infrastructure.
• Provide technical support and training to clients on operation and maintenance.
• Research and recommend new irrigation technologies and best practices.
• Ensure compliance with water management regulations and standards.
• Collaborate with agronomists and farmers to meet project goals.

Skills

Irrigation design

Hydraulics

AutoCAD

Client liaison

Education

Bachelors in Engineering

Tools

EPANET

Hydraulic software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a specialist in agricultural water solutions, is seeking an experienced Irrigation Systems Engineer to join their team based in Randburg . This role is critical for designing, implementing, and optimizing efficient irrigation systems for farms across various regions. You will be responsible for conducting site assessments, analyzing water resources, designing customized irrigation plans (including drip, sprinkler, and center pivot systems), and overseeing installation and maintenance. The ideal candidate will have a strong engineering background, combined with practical knowledge of agronomy and water management principles. You will play a key role in helping agricultural clients improve water use efficiency, reduce operational costs, and enhance crop yields through smart irrigation technologies. This position offers a blend of office-based design work and on‑site field operations, contributing to sustainable agriculture solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Designing and engineering efficient irrigation systems, including selecting appropriate components (pumps, pipes, emitters, controllers).
• Conducting detailed site surveys and analyzing soil types, topography, and crop water requirements.
• Developing hydraulic calculations and system layouts for irrigation projects.
• Preparing technical specifications, drawings, and cost estimations for irrigation projects.
• Overseeing the installation and commissioning of irrigation systems.
• Troubleshooting and resolving technical issues with existing irrigation infrastructure.
• Providing technical support and training to clients on irrigation system operation and maintenance.
• Researching and recommending new irrigation technologies and best practices.
• Ensuring compliance with water management regulations and environmental standards.
• Collaborating with agronomists, farmers, and other stakeholders to achieve project goals.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in the design and implementation of agricultural irrigation systems.
• Proven expertise in various irrigation methods (drip, sprinkler, center pivot, etc.).
• Strong understanding of fluid mechanics, hydraulics, and water resource management.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD) and irrigation design software.
• Knowledge of agricultural practices and crop water needs is essential.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and project management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with clients.
• Willingness to travel frequently to client sites across various agricultural regions.
• A valid driver's license is required.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance incentives, and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid, a retirement fund, and opportunities for professional development. This role involves a hybrid work model, allowing for flexibility between remote work and on‑site responsibilities in the Randburg area.

Join a dynamic team focused on advancing sustainable agricultural practices through innovative water management solutions.