Irrigation Systems Manager

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company vehicle

Medical aid

Retirement contributions

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Irrigation Systems Manager to design, install, operate, and maintain efficient irrigation systems across farming operations in Bloemfontein, Free State. The role combines on-site supervision with strategic planning and remote oversight, emphasizing water management, hydraulics, and automation.

The ideal candidate will lead a technical team, manage budgets, and ensure regulatory compliance while optimizing water usage and crop health for sustainable,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering, Agronomy, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in managing and operating agricultural irrigation systems.
• Strong knowledge of various irrigation methods (e.g., drip, sprinkler, center pivot).
• Proficiency in irrigation design software and hydraulic calculations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the design, installation, and commissioning of new irrigation systems.
• Manage the daily operation and maintenance of existing irrigation infrastructure.
• Monitor water usage, soil moisture levels, and crop water requirements using appropriate technologies.
• Develop and implement irrigation schedules and strategies to optimize water application efficiency.
• Troubleshoot and repair irrigation system malfunctions promptly.
• Manage irrigation system budgets, including capital expenditure and operational costs.
• Lead and supervise a team of irrigation technicians and maintenance staff.
• Ensure compliance with water use regulations and environmental best practices.
• Evaluate and recommend new irrigation technologies and automation solutions.
• Collaborate with agronomists and farm managers to integrate irrigation plans with overall crop management strategies.

Skills

Water management

Hydraulics

Project leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering or related field

Tools

Irrigation design software

Hydraulic calculations

Automation systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural enterprise, is seeking an experienced Irrigation Systems Manager to join their team. This role operates on a hybrid model, combining strategic planning and remote oversight with essential on-site management and operations. Based in Bloemfontein, Free State, you will be responsible for the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of efficient irrigation systems across various farming operations. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of water management, hydraulics, and agricultural engineering principles, coupled with expertise in modern irrigation technologies and automation. You will play a crucial role in optimizing water usage, ensuring crop health, and maximizing yields while adhering to environmental regulations. Your responsibilities will include managing budgets, leading a technical team, and collaborating with farm managers to meet irrigation needs effectively. This position is key to ensuring the sustainable and profitable use of water resources in agricultural production.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the design, installation, and commissioning of new irrigation systems.
• Manage the daily operation and maintenance of existing irrigation infrastructure.
• Monitor water usage, soil moisture levels, and crop water requirements using appropriate technologies.
• Develop and implement irrigation schedules and strategies to optimize water application efficiency.
• Troubleshoot and repair irrigation system malfunctions promptly.
• Manage irrigation system budgets, including capital expenditure and operational costs.
• Lead and supervise a team of irrigation technicians and maintenance staff.
• Ensure compliance with water use regulations and environmental best practices.
• Evaluate and recommend new irrigation technologies and automation solutions.
• Collaborate with agronomists and farm managers to integrate irrigation plans with overall crop management strategies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering, Agronomy, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in managing and operating agricultural irrigation systems.
• Strong knowledge of various irrigation methods (e.g., drip, sprinkler, center pivot).
• Proficiency in irrigation design software and hydraulic calculations.
• Experience with water management technologies, sensors, and automation systems.
• Proven ability to lead and manage technical teams.
• Understanding of water resources management and conservation principles.
• Excellent problem-solving and diagnostic skills.
• Strong communication and organizational abilities.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to different farm locations within the Free State region.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, performance incentives, and a comprehensive benefits plan including medical aid and retirement contributions. This hybrid role provides flexibility, allowing for strategic planning and reporting from a remote setting while requiring on-site supervision. Opportunities for professional growth and advanced training in irrigation technology are available. You will work within a dynamic agricultural environment focused on efficiency and sustainability. A company vehicle for site visits and business travel will be provided. We foster a collaborative work culture that values innovation and employee development. This role presents an excellent opportunity to manage critical water infrastructure and contribute to the success of agricultural operations.