Irrigation Systems Engineer - Water Management

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

Job summary

Placements24 in Klerksdorp, North West, is seeking an Irrigation Systems Engineer to design, implement, and manage large-scale irrigation across agricultural lands. The role blends fieldwork with office duties to optimize water use, protect crops, and reduce costs through modern irrigation technologies and water management strategies.

You will design drip, sprinkler, and center-pivot layouts, oversee installation and maintenance, monitor systems with hydrological data and sensors, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor degree in engineering with irrigation specialization.
• Experience designing and managing large-scale agricultural irrigation systems.
• Proficiency with CAD for irrigation layouts.

Responsibilities

• Design and engineer customized irrigation systems tailored to crop needs and site conditions.
• Oversee installation, commissioning and maintenance of irrigation infrastructure.
• Assess existing systems to identify inefficiencies and improvements.
• Develop water management plans for efficiency and regulatory compliance.
• Use hydrological data, forecasts and sensor readings to schedule irrigation.
• Troubleshoot irrigation equipment and networks.
• Stay updated on irrigation technology and water conservation methods.
• Collaborate with agronomists and farm managers to integrate irrigation with operations in Klerksdorp.

Skills

Irrigation hydraulics

Water distribution networks

Problem-solving

Teamwork

Communication

Field and office flexibility

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field with a specialization in irrigation

Tools

CAD software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major agricultural development company operating in Klerksdorp, North West , is seeking a skilled Irrigation Systems Engineer. This role is crucial for designing, implementing, and managing efficient and sustainable irrigation systems across vast agricultural lands. The engineer will be responsible for optimizing water usage, ensuring crop health, and reducing operational costs through the application of modern irrigation technologies and water management strategies. This position involves both fieldwork and office-based responsibilities, offering a dynamic and challenging career opportunity within the agricultural sector. You will contribute directly to water resource conservation and agricultural productivity in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and engineer customized irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler, center pivot) tailored to specific crop needs, soil types, and topographical conditions.
• Oversee the installation, commissioning, and maintenance of irrigation infrastructure.
• Conduct regular assessments of existing irrigation systems to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement water management plans to ensure optimal water use efficiency and compliance with regulations.
• Utilize hydrological data, weather forecasts, and sensor readings to manage irrigation schedules effectively.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to irrigation equipment and water distribution networks.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in irrigation technology, water conservation methods, and relevant agricultural engineering principles.
• Collaborate with agronomists, farm managers, and other stakeholders to integrate irrigation strategies with overall farm operations in Klerksdorp .

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field with a specialization in irrigation.
• A minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in the design, installation, and management of large-scale agricultural irrigation systems.
• Strong knowledge of irrigation hydraulics, pump systems, water distribution networks, and control systems.
• Proficiency in using CAD software for designing irrigation layouts and related infrastructure.
• Experience with water management techniques, including water balance calculations and scheduling.
• Understanding of agricultural practices and crop water requirements relevant to the North West province.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively both in the field and in an office setting.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• A valid driver's license is essential for site visits across the operational area.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid and retirement provisions. This hybrid role provides a balance between fieldwork and office-based tasks. You will have opportunities for professional development and exposure to innovative irrigation technologies. The company is committed to sustainable agricultural practices and offers a supportive work environment in Klerksdorp , contributing to efficient water resource management in the region.