Irrigation Systems Specialist - Large Scale Projects

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 350,000 - 520,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid plan

Provident fund

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks an Irrigation Systems Specialist to design, implement and manage efficient irrigation systems for large-scale agricultural projects. The role blends site work with office planning in KwaZulu-Natal's challenging climate.

You will optimize water usage, develop scheduling, monitor system performance, and collaborate with agronomists and farm managers to align irrigation with crop management.

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in a relevant field with hands-on irrigation design experience.
• Minimum 5 years in designing, installing, and managing irrigation systems.
• Experience with hydraulics, soil-water relations, and plant physiology.

Responsibilities

• Design and plan irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler, and pivot) based on crop needs.
• Oversee installation and commissioning of irrigation infrastructure.
• Develop irrigation schedules to optimize water use and yield.
• Monitor performance, inspect systems, troubleshoot issues.
• Implement water conservation strategies and technologies.
• Maintain records of performance and water usage.
• Collaborate with agronomists and farm managers to integrate plans.
• Ensure compliance with local water regulations and environmental standards.
• Provide training to farm staff on operation and maintenance.
• Research and recommend new irrigation technologies.

Skills

Irrigation design

Hydraulics

Soil-water relations

Plant physiology

CAD software

GIS mapping

Project management

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering

Diploma in Irrigation Technology

Tools

CAD software

GIS

Water management technologies

Job description

About the Role

Our client seeks a skilled and motivated Irrigation Systems Specialist to join their dynamic team in the Richards Bay area, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is crucial for designing, implementing, and managing efficient irrigation systems for large-scale agricultural projects. The specialist will play a key role in optimizing water usage, ensuring optimal crop hydration, and contributing to the overall success and sustainability of farming operations. This position involves a hybrid work model, requiring a balance of site visits and office-based work. The ideal candidate will possess a strong technical background in irrigation technology, coupled with practical experience in agricultural water management. You will be working at the forefront of agricultural innovation, ensuring that our client's operations are both productive and environmentally responsible within the challenging climate of KwaZulu-Natal . This role offers the chance to make a significant impact on water resource management in agriculture.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and plan new irrigation systems, including drip, sprinkler, and pivot systems, based on crop needs and site conditions.
• Oversee the installation and commissioning of irrigation infrastructure.
• Develop schedules for irrigation operations, ensuring optimal water application to maximize crop yield and quality.
• Monitor the performance of irrigation systems, conducting regular inspections and troubleshooting issues.
• Implement water conservation strategies and technologies to reduce water usage.
• Maintain detailed records of system performance, water usage, and maintenance activities.
• Collaborate with agronomists and farm managers to integrate irrigation plans with overall crop management strategies.
• Ensure compliance with local water usage regulations and environmental standards.
• Provide training and guidance to farm staff on the operation and maintenance of irrigation equipment.
• Research and recommend new irrigation technologies and best practices.

Requirements

• A relevant degree or diploma in Agricultural Engineering, Irrigation Technology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in designing, installing, and managing irrigation systems.
• Strong understanding of hydraulics, soil-water relations, and plant physiology.
• Proficiency with CAD software for irrigation system design and GIS for mapping is advantageous.
• Experience with various irrigation system types and water management technologies.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with diverse teams.
• Ability to manage projects and work effectively within a hybrid work structure.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to project sites within KwaZulu-Natal .
• A commitment to sustainable water management in agriculture.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Benefits include a comprehensive medical aid plan, a provident fund, and opportunities for professional development and continuous training.
• The hybrid work model offers a good work-life balance.
• Join a progressive company dedicated to advancing agricultural efficiency and sustainability in South Africa .