Senior Agricultural Engineer - Irrigation Systems Specialist

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Company vehicle or travel allowance

Professional development opportunities

Paid time off

Hybrid work environment

Career advancement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Agricultural Engineer specializing in irrigation systems for Bloemfontein, Free State. The role blends on-site field assessments with office-based design and analysis to optimize water use and crop yield.

You will lead technical teams, manage projects, and ensure regulatory compliance while delivering water-wise farming solutions across the region.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in design/implementation of agricultural irrigation systems.
• Strong knowledge of hydraulics, fluid mechanics, and soil–water–plant relationships.
• Proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD, Civil 3D) and irrigation design tools.
• Experience with drip, sprinkler, and center pivot technologies and water management strategies.

Responsibilities

• Design and engineer efficient irrigation systems for agricultural applications.
• Conduct site assessments, feasibility studies, and water resource evaluations.
• Develop detailed engineering plans, drawings, and specifications using CAD software.

Skills

Hydraulics

Project management

Team leadership

Client-facing

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Agricultural Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

Civil 3D

Irrigation design software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural technology and infrastructure firm, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Agricultural Engineer specializing in Irrigation Systems for their **Bloemfontein, Free State** operations. This hybrid role requires a blend of on-site field assessments and office-based design and analysis. You will be responsible for the design, implementation, and optimization of advanced irrigation systems for large-scale agricultural projects across the region. This includes evaluating water resources, designing efficient distribution networks, selecting appropriate technologies (drip, sprinkler, center pivot), and ensuring systems are sustainable and cost-effective. You will work closely with farmers, agronomists, and project managers to deliver tailored irrigation solutions that maximize crop yield and minimize water usage. The ideal candidate possesses a strong engineering background, a deep understanding of hydraulics, soil-water-plant relationships, and a passion for applying engineering principles to solve agricultural challenges. We are looking for an individual with excellent project management skills and the ability to lead technical teams. This role offers the opportunity to significantly impact agricultural productivity and water resource management in the **Bloemfontein, Free State** area. Your contributions will be key to developing water-wise farming solutions in a region often facing water scarcity. Strategic planning for long-term irrigation infrastructure maintenance and upgrades will also be a core responsibility. The engineer will also be involved in assessing the environmental impact of irrigation projects and ensuring regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and engineer efficient and sustainable irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler, pivot, etc.) for agricultural applications.
• Conduct site assessments, feasibility studies, and water resource evaluations.
• Select and specify irrigation equipment and materials, ensuring compatibility and reliability.
• Develop detailed engineering plans, drawings, and specifications using CAD software.
• Oversee the installation and commissioning of irrigation systems, providing technical guidance.
• Troubleshoot and optimize existing irrigation systems to improve performance and water efficiency.
• Conduct hydraulic calculations and water flow analysis.
• Develop water management plans and strategies for clients.
• Stay current with advancements in irrigation technology, precision agriculture, and water conservation techniques.
• Prepare technical reports, cost estimates, and project proposals.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of professional experience in the design and implementation of agricultural irrigation systems.
• Strong knowledge of hydraulics, fluid mechanics, and soil-water-plant relationships.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D) and irrigation design software.
• Experience with various irrigation technologies and water management strategies.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Ability to work independently and lead teams in a hybrid work environment.
• Strong communication and client-facing skills.
• Understanding of environmental regulations related to water use.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to project sites in and around **Bloemfontein, Free State**.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package and potential for bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Generous paid time off.
• Professional development opportunities, including workshops and certifications.
• Company vehicle or travel allowance.
• Opportunity to work on impactful agricultural infrastructure projects.
• Supportive and dynamic team environment.
• Work-life balance initiatives.
• Clear path for career advancement.