Irrigation Systems Engineer - Agricultural Water Management

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance bonuses

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Irrigation Systems Engineer for operations around Vereeniging, Gauteng. You will design, implement and manage efficient irrigation solutions across diverse farms, using CAD tools and hydraulics expertise.

The role involves site visits, hybrid planning/reporting, and collaboration with farm teams to ensure optimal water use and crop health. A relevant engineering degree and 6+ years’ experience are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural, Civil or Mechanical engineering with irrigation specialization.
• Minimum of 6 years designing and managing agricultural irrigation systems.
• Strong knowledge of hydraulics, fluid mechanics, soil-water-plant relations and water management.

Responsibilities

• Design and engineer efficient irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler, center pivot) tailored to crop and soil.
• Oversee installation, commissioning and maintenance of irrigation infrastructure.
• Conduct water audits and identify conservation/efficiency improvements.
• Manage operation and maintenance of pumping stations, pipelines and storage facilities.
• Utilize CAD for irrigation layouts and specifications.
• Monitor system performance with flow meters and gauges.
• Develop and manage budgets for irrigation projects and maintenance.
• Ensure compliance with water usage regulations and environmental best practices.
• Train farm staff on irrigation equipment operation and maintenance.

Skills

Problem solving

Project management

Communication

Hydraulics

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural/Civil/Mechanical Engineering (irrigation)

Tools

CAD software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a prominent agricultural group operating vast farmlands in and around Vereeniging, Gauteng . We are seeking an experienced Irrigation Systems Engineer to design, implement, and manage efficient water management solutions across our diverse agricultural operations. This role is vital for ensuring optimal water usage, crop health, and sustainable farming practices, particularly in an environment where water resource management is key. You will be responsible for evaluating existing systems, proposing upgrades, and overseeing the installation and maintenance of advanced irrigation technologies. The position requires a blend of technical expertise in fluid dynamics and hydraulics, combined with a practical understanding of agricultural needs. This role involves significant site visits and hybrid flexibility for planning and reporting.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and engineer efficient irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler, center pivot) tailored to specific crop and soil requirements.
• Oversee the installation, commissioning, and maintenance of all irrigation infrastructure.
• Conduct water audits and assessments to identify areas for water conservation and efficiency improvements.
• Manage the operation and maintenance of pumping stations, pipelines, and water storage facilities.
• Utilize CAD software for designing irrigation layouts and specifications.
• Monitor irrigation system performance using flow meters, pressure gauges, and remote sensing technologies.
• Develop and manage budgets for irrigation projects and ongoing maintenance.
• Ensure compliance with water usage regulations and environmental best practices.
• Train farm staff on the proper operation and maintenance of irrigation equipment.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field with a specialization in irrigation.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in designing and managing agricultural irrigation systems.
• Strong knowledge of hydraulics, fluid mechanics, soil-water-plant relationships, and water management principles.
• Proficiency in CAD software for irrigation system design.
• Experience with different types of irrigation technologies (drip, sprinkler, pivot, etc.).
• Familiarity with water resource management and conservation techniques.
• Excellent problem-solving, project management, and communication skills.
• Willingness to travel regularly to farm sites around Vereeniging, Gauteng , and participate in hybrid work arrangements.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, generous benefits package including medical aid and a retirement fund, and performance-related bonuses.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training in water management technologies are provided.
• This role offers the chance to significantly impact sustainable agriculture in the Vereeniging, Gauteng region.