Irrigation Systems Manager — Hybrid Role, Water Efficiency

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

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,