Senior Agricultural Water Resource Manager (Irrigation)

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington, South Africa seeks an experienced Agricultural Water Resource Manager to lead sustainable water use for crop irrigation in a water-scarce environment. You will oversee source management, distribution systems, irrigation scheduling, and conservation in a dynamic, field‑based setting.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor’s in a water-focused discipline, at least six years’ experience in agricultural water resource management, knowledge of irrigation technologies, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a water-focused field as listed.
• Minimum 6 years of experience in water resource management in agriculture.
• Experience with irrigation systems and water management technologies.
• Familiarity with SA water policies and Northern Cape regulations.
• Experience with data analysis and water management software.
• Strong problem-solving, planning and organizational skills.
• Strong communication and negotiation abilities.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to spend time on sites.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement integrated water resource management plans for agricultural operations.
• Oversee operation and maintenance of water sources, pumps, pipelines, and distribution networks.
• Design and optimize irrigation schedules based on crop water needs and weather data.
• Implement water conservation strategies and technologies to minimize usage.
• Monitor water quality and salinity levels to meet agricultural standards.
• Ensure compliance with local and national water regulations and policies.
• Analyze water usage data to identify inefficiencies and improvements.
• Manage budgets related to water infrastructure and energy consumption.
• Liaise with water authorities, research institutions, and stakeholders.
• Train farm staff on water management best practices and irrigation system operation.

Skills

Data analysis

Problem-solving

Planning

Organizational skills

Communication

Negotiation

Independent work

Driver's license

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering / Civil Eng (water focus) / Hydrology / Agronomy

Tools

Water management software

Irrigation systems (drip/pivot/micro-irrigation)

Job description

Placements24 in Upington, South Africa seeks an experienced Agricultural Water Resource Manager to lead sustainable water use for crop irrigation in a water-scarce environment. You will oversee source management, distribution systems, irrigation scheduling, and conservation in a dynamic, field‑based setting.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor’s in a water-focused discipline, at least six years’ experience in agricultural water resource management, knowledge of irrigation technologies, and