Irrigation Systems Engineer - Agricultural Water Management

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Life insurance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 (Upington) seeks an Irrigation Systems Engineer to optimize water use and crop yields through design, installation and maintenance of advanced irrigation systems. You will collaborate with farmers, agronomists and project managers to deliver tailored solutions from concept to implementation and ongoing support.

This hybrid role emphasizes practical fieldwork in Upington and planning/reporting activities, leveraging sensors, data loggers and SCADA where applicable.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering or Civil Engineering with hydraulics emphasis.
• Minimum 5 years' experience in design, installation and maintenance of agricultural irrigation systems.
• Strong understanding of hydraulics, fluid dynamics and irrigation principles.
• Proficiency in irrigation design software (e.g., AutoCAD, CADWorx, irrigation design programs).

Responsibilities

• Design efficient irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler, center pivot) tailored to crop/soil conditions.
• Develop plans, specs and cost estimates for irrigation projects.
• Oversee installation and commissioning ensuring adherence to specs and quality.
• Conduct site assessments and feasibility studies for irrigation infrastructure.
• Troubleshoot operational issues with pumps, pipes and emitters.
• Manage water management plans including scheduling and monitoring usage.
• Utilise water management technologies including sensors, data loggers and SCADA.
• Provide technical training and support to farm staff.
• Ensure compliance with water use regulations and environmental standards.
• Collaborate with agronomists to align irrigation with crop management.

Skills

Hydraulics

Project management

Analytical thinking

Education

BEng Agricultural Engineering

BEng Civil Engineering with hydraulics

Tools

AutoCAD

CADWorx

Irrigation design software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural technology and services firm, is seeking a skilled Irrigation Systems Engineer to enhance water management efficiency for agricultural operations. This role, based in the arid but agriculturally significant region of Upington, Northern Cape , will focus on the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of advanced irrigation systems. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in optimizing water use, improving crop yields, and promoting sustainable water resource management in a challenging environment. You will work closely with farmers, agronomists, and project managers to deliver tailored irrigation solutions, from conceptualization through to implementation and ongoing support. This is a practical, hands- on role with significant impact on agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

• Design efficient and cost-effective irrigation systems (e.g., drip, sprinkler, center pivot) tailored to specific crop and soil conditions.
• Develop detailed plans, specifications, and cost estimates for irrigation projects.
• Oversee the installation and commissioning of new irrigation systems, ensuring compliance with design specifications and quality standards.
• Conduct site assessments and feasibility studies for proposed irrigation infrastructure.
• Troubleshoot and resolve operational issues with existing irrigation systems, including pump, pipe, and emitter problems.
• Implement and manage water management plans, including scheduling, monitoring water usage, and optimizing irrigation efficiency.
• Utilize water management software and technologies, including sensors, data loggers, and SCADA systems.
• Provide technical training and support to farm staff on the operation and maintenance of irrigation systems.
• Ensure compliance with relevant water use regulations and environmental standards.
• Collaborate with agronomists to integrate irrigation strategies with overall crop management plans.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in irrigation technology, water conservation techniques, and agricultural water management practices.
• Prepare technical reports, project documentation, and performance evaluations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering with an emphasis on hydraulics, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in the design, installation, and maintenance of agricultural irrigation systems.
• Strong understanding of hydraulics, fluid dynamics, and irrigation principles.
• Proficiency in irrigation design software (e.g., AutoCAD, CADWorx, specific irrigation design programs).
• Experience with various irrigation technologies, including drip, sprinkler, micro-irrigation, and central pivot systems.
• Knowledge of water resource management and conservation techniques.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and project management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with clients and technical teams.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings and schematics.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel extensively within the Northern Cape region and perform fieldwork.
• Experience with pump selection and system control is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience and expertise, along with performance incentives.
• The comprehensive benefits include medical aid, a provident fund, and life insurance.
• Opportunities for professional development, including specialized training and certifications in water management technologies, are provided.
• This role utilizes a hybrid work model, allowing for on-site design, installation supervision, and fieldwork in the Upington area, complemented by remote work for planning, analysis, and reporting.
• Join a leading company dedicated to optimizing water use in agriculture for a sustainable future.