Senior Agricultural Engineer - Irrigation Systems

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work

Company vehicle

Fuel allowance

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 invites a Senior Agricultural Engineer to lead the irrigation systems division in Vereeniging, Gauteng. The role blends on-site project work with office design and analysis to optimize water use in agriculture.

You will oversee projects, mentor junior engineers, and ensure compliance with water management and environmental standards while coordinating with farmers and agronomists in the Gauteng region.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Agricultural or Civil Engineering.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in agricultural engineering with irrigation focus.
• Experience with multiple irrigation technologies and water management techniques.
• Strong hydraulics, fluid dynamics and soil-water-plant knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement advanced irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler, pivot).
• Perform site assessments and feasibility studies for irrigation projects.
• Oversee installation, commissioning and maintenance of irrigation infra.
• Manage project budgets, timelines and resources for delivery.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to juniors.
• Analyze water usage data and system performance for efficiency gains.
• Research and evaluate new irrigation technologies and materials.
• Collaborate with agronomists, farmers and stakeholders to meet irrigation needs.

Skills

Project management

Leadership

Communication

Stakeholder engagement

Problem-solving

Travel flexibility

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering

Master's degree in Civil/related field

Tools

AutoCAD

Civil 3D

Irrigation design software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural services company operating in **Vereeniging, Gauteng**, is seeking an experienced Senior Agricultural Engineer to lead their irrigation systems division. This role is crucial for designing, implementing, and optimizing water management solutions for diverse agricultural applications. You will be responsible for overseeing projects, managing teams, and providing expert technical guidance to ensure efficient and sustainable water use. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in fluid mechanics, hydraulics, and irrigation technology, coupled with practical experience in agricultural settings. This position involves a combination of on-site project work and office-based design and analysis, making it a hybrid role. Join our client to play a key role in advancing water efficiency in South African agriculture from the **Gauteng** region.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement advanced irrigation systems, including drip, sprinkler, and centre-pivot systems.
• Conduct site assessments and feasibility studies for new irrigation projects.
• Oversee the installation, commissioning, and maintenance of irrigation infrastructure.
• Manage project budgets, timelines, and resources to ensure successful project delivery.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians.
• Analyze water usage data and system performance to identify areas for improvement and efficiency gains.
• Research and evaluate new irrigation technologies and materials.
• Collaborate with agronomists, farmers, and other stakeholders to meet their specific irrigation needs.
• Ensure compliance with relevant water management regulations and environmental standards.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in agricultural engineering, with a specialization in irrigation systems design and management.
• Proven experience with various irrigation technologies and water management techniques.
• Strong understanding of hydraulics, fluid dynamics, and soil-water-plant relationships.
• Proficiency in relevant design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D, irrigation design software).
• Excellent project management, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective stakeholder engagement.
• Ability to travel to project sites within **Gauteng** and surrounding areas.
• Professional registration with ECSA is advantageous.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package with regular performance reviews.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility between office and remote work.
• Company vehicle and fuel allowance for site visits.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training.
• Be part of a leading company driving innovation in agricultural water management.