Irrigation Systems Engineer - Water Management Solutions

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Health benefits

Retirement benefits

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein, Free State, seeks an experienced Irrigation Systems Engineer to design, implement, and optimize irrigation infrastructure for farms. You will apply knowledge of hydraulics, soil science, and water management to improve crop health and water use efficiency on a range of projects.

You will lead site assessments, prepare detailed plans and cost estimates, oversee installation, and provide training to clients. PrEng is advantageous; a valid driver's license is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering field with a focus on water management.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in designing and managing irrigation systems.
• Proficiency in irrigation design software such as AutoCAD, Hydrus, and IrriMaker.
• Strong knowledge of hydraulics, soil physics, and crop water requirements.
• Experience with water conservation techniques and sustainable irrigation practices.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills for diverse clients.
• Ability to conduct site visits and perform field assessments.
• Valid driver's license and professional engineering registration is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Design and engineer efficient irrigation systems tailored to crop and soil conditions.
• Conduct site assessments and feasibility studies for new projects.
• Prepare detailed plans, specifications, and cost estimates for irrigation systems.
• Oversee installation and commissioning, ensuring quality and adherence to design.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to irrigation infrastructure.
• Develop and implement water management strategies to optimize use efficiency.
• Utilize hydraulic modeling software to simulate system performance.
• Provide technical support and training to clients and farm staff.
• Stay current with advancements in irrigation technology and regulations.
• Collaborate with agronomists, soil scientists, and other professionals.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Project management

Communication skills

Client collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural/Civil/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

Hydrus

IrriMaker

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading provider of advanced agricultural solutions, specializing in sustainable water management and efficient irrigation systems. We are seeking a skilled Irrigation Systems Engineer to join our dynamic team in Bloemfontein, Free State. This role is instrumental in designing, implementing, and optimizing irrigation infrastructure for farms, ensuring optimal water use efficiency and crop health. The engineer will work on a variety of projects, from small-scale farms to large agricultural enterprises, utilizing cutting-edge technologies and best practices. The position requires a strong understanding of fluid dynamics, soil science, hydrology, and agricultural requirements. Based in Bloemfontein, Free State, this role offers the opportunity to contribute significantly to water conservation efforts and enhance agricultural productivity in the region. The ideal candidate will be a problem-solver with a passion for sustainable agriculture and innovative engineering solutions. This role demands a blend of technical expertise and practical application in the field.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and engineer efficient irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler, center pivot) tailored to specific crop and soil conditions.
• Conduct site assessments and feasibility studies for new irrigation projects.
• Prepare detailed plans, specifications, and cost estimates for irrigation systems.
• Oversee the installation and commissioning of irrigation systems, ensuring quality and adherence to design.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to existing irrigation infrastructure.
• Develop and implement water management strategies to optimize water use efficiency.
• Utilize hydraulic modeling software and other tools to simulate system performance.
• Provide technical support and training to clients and farm staff on irrigation system operation and maintenance.
• Stay current with advancements in irrigation technology, water management practices, and relevant regulations.
• Collaborate with agronomists, soil scientists, and other agricultural professionals.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field with a focus on water management.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in designing and managing irrigation systems.
• Proficiency in irrigation design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Hydrus, IrriMaker).
• Strong knowledge of hydraulics, soil physics, and crop water requirements.
• Experience with water conservation techniques and sustainable irrigation practices.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work with diverse clients.
• Ability to conduct site visits and perform field assessments.
• Valid driver's license.
• Professional Engineer (PrEng) registration is an advantage.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, annual bonus, and comprehensive health and retirement benefits. We are committed to employee growth and provide opportunities for professional development, certifications, and training. This role is based in Bloemfontein, Free State, offering a stable and rewarding career focused on critical agricultural infrastructure and sustainability.