Irrigation Systems Specialist - Large-Scale Agriculture

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 520,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and benefits

Hybrid work model

Professional development opportunities

Based near Richards Bay

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Irrigation Systems Specialist in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. The role focuses on designing, installing, maintaining, and managing advanced irrigation across large farming areas, including drip, sprinkler, and centre-pivot systems.

It is a hybrid position requiring on-site assessments with off-site planning and analysis. The ideal candidate holds a National Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Agricultural/Mechanical Engineering with at least 4 years of hands-on irrigation

Qualifications

• 4+ years of hands-on design, installation and maintenance of agricultural irrigation systems.
• Proficiency with drip, sprinkler and centre-pivot irrigation methods.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and schematics.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Experience in large-scale agricultural settings is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement efficient irrigation systems tailored to crop needs and field topography.
• Oversee installation and commissioning of irrigation infrastructure.
• Inspect and maintain pumps, pipes, filters and emitters.
• Troubleshoot irrigation system malfunctions to minimize water loss.
• Monitor water usage, soil moisture, weather patterns; optimize schedules.

Skills

Problem-solving

Mechanical aptitude

Communication

Organizational skills

Education

National Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Agricultural/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Irrigation control systems

Sensors

Data loggers

Hydraulic equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major agricultural producer in the Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA region, is seeking a skilled Irrigation Systems Specialist. This role is crucial for optimizing water usage and ensuring efficient irrigation across vast farming areas, particularly important in this climate. The specialist will be responsible for the design, installation, maintenance, and management of advanced irrigation systems, including drip, sprinkler, and centre-pivot systems. This hybrid position requires regular on-site assessment and implementation, coupled with off-site planning and analysis.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, plan, and implement efficient irrigation systems tailored to specific crop needs and field topography.
• Oversee the installation and commissioning of new irrigation infrastructure.
• Conduct regular inspections and maintenance of all irrigation equipment, including pumps, pipes, filters, and emitters.
• Troubleshoot and repair malfunctions in irrigation systems promptly to minimize water loss and crop stress.
• Monitor water usage, soil moisture levels, and weather patterns to optimize irrigation schedules.
• Utilize sensor technology and data logging to analyze system performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Manage irrigation system budgets, including procurement of parts and materials.
• Train farm staff on the proper operation and basic maintenance of irrigation equipment.
• Ensure compliance with water conservation regulations and sustainable irrigation practices.
• Stay updated on the latest irrigation technologies and best practices in water management.

Requirements

• A National Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of hands-on experience in the design, installation, and maintenance of agricultural irrigation systems.
• Proficiency with various irrigation methods (drip, sprinkler, centre-pivot, etc.).
• Strong understanding of hydraulics, water flow, and soil science as it relates to irrigation.
• Experience with irrigation control systems, sensors, and data loggers.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and schematics.
• Good communication and organizational skills.
• Experience working in large-scale agricultural settings is highly desirable.

Benefits

• We offer a competitive salary and benefits package for this vital role.
• You’ll have the opportunity to work with modern agricultural technology and contribute to water sustainability efforts.
• This hybrid role offers a blend of fieldwork and technical analysis.
• Professional development opportunities within a leading agricultural company are available.
• The position is based near Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA.