Irrigation Systems Engineer - Agriculture

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Irrigation Systems Engineer for Upington, Northern Cape. The role focuses on designing, installing, maintaining, and optimizing irrigation systems across farming operations, with emphasis on water conservation and sustainable practices.

You will collaborate with agronomists and farm managers to ensure crops receive optimal water resources, improving yields while minimizing waste. Outdoor work in varying weather is expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural, Mechanical or Civil Engineering with a specialization in irrigation.
• Strong understanding of hydraulics, water flow, soil-plant-water relationships and irrigation scheduling principles.
• Proficiency in CAD software for irrigation layouts.
• Experience with various irrigation methods and technologies is essential.

Responsibilities

• Design, plan and oversee installation of irrigation systems (drip, pivot, furrow).
• Inspect and maintain irrigation infrastructure, addressing issues promptly.
• Monitor water usage and system performance; adjust to optimize efficiency.
• Troubleshoot pumps, pipes, valves, filters and control systems.
• Evaluate and adopt new irrigation technologies and practices for better water management.
• Develop schematics, maps and records of irrigation systems.

Skills

Hydraulics

Irrigation scheduling

Soil-plant-water relations

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural/Mechanical/Civil Engineering with irrigation specialization

Tools

CAD software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking agricultural company operating in the arid region of Upington , Northern Cape, is seeking a dedicated Irrigation Systems Engineer. This critical role is responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and optimization of efficient and sustainable irrigation systems across our farming operations. Given the unique environmental conditions of the region, expertise in water conservation and advanced irrigation technologies is paramount. You will work closely with agronomists and farm managers to ensure that our crops receive optimal water resources, thereby maximizing yield and minimizing waste. This position requires a blend of engineering knowledge, practical field experience, and a commitment to sustainable agricultural practices in Upington .

Key Responsibilities

• Design, plan, and oversee the installation of new irrigation systems (drip, pivot, furrow, etc.).
• Conduct regular inspections and maintenance of existing irrigation infrastructure, identifying and addressing issues promptly.
• Monitor water usage and system performance, implementing adjustments to optimize efficiency and water conservation.
• Troubleshoot and repair malfunctions in pumps, pipes, valves, filters, and control systems.
• Evaluate and recommend new irrigation technologies and practices to improve water management.
• Develop and maintain detailed schematics, maps, and records of irrigation systems.
• Collaborate with farm managers and agronomists to align irrigation schedules with crop needs and weather conditions.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant water usage regulations and environmental standards.
• Manage budgets for irrigation projects and maintenance.
• Provide technical training and support to farm staff on irrigation system operation and maintenance.
• Research and implement smart irrigation technologies, including sensor networks and automated control systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field with a specialization in irrigation.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in the design, installation, and maintenance of agricultural irrigation systems.
• Strong understanding of hydraulics, water flow, soil-plant-water relationships, and irrigation scheduling principles.
• Proficiency in CAD software for designing irrigation layouts.
• Experience with various irrigation methods and technologies is essential.
• Knowledge of water quality testing and management.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions common to the Northern Cape .
• Experience with pump systems and water filtration is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package and benefits, including medical aid and a provident fund. Opportunities for professional development and training in the latest irrigation technologies will be provided. You will be part of a company committed to sustainable agriculture in a challenging but rewarding environment. Assistance with relocation may be considered. This role offers the chance to make a significant impact on agricultural productivity in the Upington region.