Senior Irrigation Engineer — Smart Water Systems (Hybrid)

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Hybrid work model

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Agricultural Engineer in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga to lead advanced irrigation design and water management across major agricultural projects. You will guide hydraulic design, system optimization, and the integration of smart irrigation technologies to promote water efficiency and sustainable farming.

The role requires expertise in fluid mechanics, hydraulics, and water resources, with a track record in managing large irrigation schemes and travel across Mpumalanga.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Agricultural or Civil Engineering with water resources focus.
• 7+ years of experience in agricultural irrigation design and water management.
• Proficient in hydraulic modeling and CAD software.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and optimization of irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler, center pivot).
• Perform hydraulic calculations and pump selection for schemes.
• Conduct water resource assessments and feasibility studies.
• Oversee installation, commissioning, and quality of irrigation projects.
• Develop strategies to improve water use efficiency and soil moisture management.
• Integrate smart irrigation technologies and sensors into designs.
• Provide technical support and training to clients and project teams.
• Prepare specifications, cost estimates, and proposals.
• Stay updated on water regulations in South Africa.

Skills

Irrigation design

Project management

Team leadership

Hydraulic modeling

Effective communication

Education

Master's degree in Agricultural Engineering or Civil Engineering (water resources)

Tools

EPANET

WaterGEMS

AutoCAD

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Agricultural Engineer in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga to lead advanced irrigation design and water management across major agricultural projects. You will guide hydraulic design, system optimization, and the integration of smart irrigation technologies to promote water efficiency and sustainable farming.

The role requires expertise in fluid mechanics, hydraulics, and water resources, with a track record in managing large irrigation schemes and travel across Mpumalanga.