Senior Agricultural Engineer - Irrigation Systems Specialist

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Hybrid work model

Performance bonuses

Provident fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Agricultural Engineer specializing in irrigation systems for our Nelspruit, Mpumalanga operations. The role combines office design work with frequent field visits to farms across Mpumalanga to assess projects and provide client support.

The candidate should have 7+ years in irrigation design, hydraulics expertise, and proficiency in AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and IrriPro. PR-Eng is advantageous, with hybrid work flexibility and opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Agricultural, Civil or Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum 7 years of progressive irrigation design and project management experience.
• Strong knowledge of hydraulic principles and water management technologies.

Responsibilities

• Design and engineer complex irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler, center-pivot).
• Perform feasibility studies and site assessments for irrigation projects.
• Create detailed drawings, specifications, and BOQs.
• Oversee installation and commissioning, ensuring design adherence.
• Troubleshoot and optimize systems for water efficiency.
• Conduct hydraulic calculations and system modeling.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources.
• Provide technical guidance to clients and field teams.
• Stay updated on irrigation tech and best practices.
• Collaborate with agronomists and environmental scientists.

Skills

Irrigation design

Hydraulics

Project management

Communication

Site coordination

Education

Bachelor's in Agricultural Eng

Master's in related field

Tools

AutoCAD

AutoCAD Civil 3D

IrriPro

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural infrastructure and technology provider, is seeking an experienced Senior Agricultural Engineer specializing in Irrigation Systems for their **Nelspruit, Mpumalanga** office. This critical role involves the design, development, implementation, and optimization of advanced irrigation solutions for large-scale agricultural operations. You will work on projects that enhance water use efficiency, improve crop yields, and promote sustainable farming practices in a region often facing water scarcity challenges. The ideal candidate possesses a strong engineering background, coupled with extensive knowledge of irrigation technologies, hydraulics, and water management principles. This hybrid role requires a balance of office-based design and analysis, and frequent site visits to farms across the **Mpumalanga** region for project assessment, installation oversight, and client support. You will lead a team of engineers and technicians, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget, meeting the highest standards of quality and performance. We seek a technically astute and motivated professional passionate about leveraging engineering to solve critical agricultural challenges.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and engineer complex irrigation systems, including drip, sprinkler, and center-pivot systems, considering water source, soil type, crop needs, and topography.
• Conduct feasibility studies and site assessments for new irrigation projects.
• Develop detailed technical drawings, specifications, and Bills of Quantities (BOQs).
• Oversee the installation and commissioning of irrigation systems, ensuring adherence to design specifications.
• Troubleshoot and optimize existing irrigation systems to improve performance and water efficiency.
• Conduct hydraulic calculations and system modeling using relevant software.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.
• Provide technical guidance and training to clients and field teams on irrigation system operation and maintenance.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in irrigation technology, water management, and agricultural engineering.
• Collaborate with agronomists, environmental scientists, and other stakeholders to ensure integrated solutions.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant industry standards and environmental regulations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in the design and management of agricultural irrigation systems.
• Proven expertise in hydraulic principles, fluid dynamics, and water management technologies.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD) and irrigation design software (e.g., AutoCAD Civil 3D, IrriPro).
• Strong understanding of different irrigation methods and their suitability for various crops and conditions.
• Experience with project management methodologies and tools.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively liaise with clients and diverse teams.
• Ability to conduct site visits and fieldwork in potentially challenging environments.
• Valid driver's license is essential.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration is highly advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including performance bonuses, comprehensive medical aid, and a provident fund.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for the successful candidate.
• This hybrid role allows for a dynamic work experience, combining office-based design work with valuable field engagement in **Nelspruit** and surrounding areas.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional development, including international certifications, are available.
• Join a leading firm at the forefront of agricultural innovation in **Mpumalanga**.