Irrigation Engineer

About the role

The Irrigation Engineer is the technical authority for irrigation system design, installation and maintenance, ensuring water efficiency, system reliability and sustainable water management across agricultural operations. The role reports to the Banana Director and manages and coordinates the personnel involved in installation, maintenance and repair, ensuring quality and safety standards.

Key responsibilities

• Design efficient irrigation systems, focusing on underground mains layout and water distribution efficiency, and develop technical specifications and engineering drawings.
• Oversee complete installation of irrigation systems and coordinate planning, scheduling and resource allocation.
• Lead regular maintenance and repair, including emergency repairs of underground mains breaks to minimise water loss and downtime.
• Oversee pump maintenance and performance, manage filtration systems for water quality, and maintain irrigation canals through clearing, erosion repair and flow optimisation.
• Supervise irrigation personnel and enforce safety protocols.
• Interact internally with agricultural operations, project management, procurement and sustainability teams, and externally with suppliers, contractors, regulators and the local community.

Required profile

• Degree in Agricultural Engineering or Irrigation Engineering.
• 8 years of experience designing, installing and maintaining irrigation systems, with specific expertise in underground mains installation.
• Proven track record in irrigation project management and team coordination.
• Demonstrated experience in pump maintenance, filtration systems and canal infrastructure.
• Added advantage: Professional Engineer (PE) license and a master's degree in water resources or irrigation engineering.

Required skills

• Irrigation system design principles and hydraulics.
• Proficiency with irrigation system software and monitoring technology.
• Knowledge of irrigation regulations and environmental standards.
• Strong project management, troubleshooting and team leadership skills.