Senior Irrigation Systems Engineer – Water-Smart Agriculture

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive contract rate

Impactful projects in water-scarce env

Cutting-edge irrigation tech exposure

Flexible project-based assignments

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Irrigation Systems Engineer to support Upington-based agricultural projects. You will design, install, optimize, and maintain advanced irrigation systems including drip, pivot, and micro-sprinkler configurations.

You will lead site assessments, feasibility studies, and system commissioning while ensuring efficient water use and crop health. Travel to project sites will be required as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering (water focus), or related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in design, implementation, and management of agricultural irrigation systems.
• In-depth knowledge of irrigation principles, hydraulics, soil-plant-water relationships, and water management technologies.
• Proficiency with irrigation design software (AutoCAD, Irri-Plan, Argus) and hydraulic calculations.
• Experience with sensor technology, SCADA systems, and irrigation automation is highly desirable.
• Strong project management skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and diagnostic abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with ability to work with clients and technical teams.
• Familiarity with the agricultural sector and Northern Cape Upington water challenges.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to project sites.

Responsibilities

• Design and engineer efficient irrigation systems tailored to crops, soil, and water availability.
• Conduct site assessments and feasibility studies for new projects.
• Oversee installation and commissioning of irrigation systems to design specs.
• Optimize existing systems for water use efficiency and distribution.
• Develop irrigation scheduling strategies based on crop needs, weather, and soil moisture.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues with pumps, filters, and controllers.
• Provide training and support to farm managers on system management.
• Stay updated on new irrigation tech and automation solutions.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources for installations and upgrades.
• Ensure compliance with water use regulations and environmental best practices.

Skills

Irrigation design

Hydraulics

SCADA

Project management

Client liaison

Education

BEng/CE with water focus

Tools

AutoCAD

Irri-Plan

Argus

SCADA

Job description

Placements24 seeks an experienced Irrigation Systems Engineer to support Upington-based agricultural projects. You will design, install, optimize, and maintain advanced irrigation systems including drip, pivot, and micro-sprinkler configurations.

You will lead site assessments, feasibility studies, and system commissioning while ensuring efficient water use and crop health. Travel to project sites will be required as needed.