Irrigation Manager

Location: Sommerville, VIC, 3912
Full-Time: Immediate start
Job Title: Irrigation Manager
Salary range: $84,000 - $89,000
Job Closure date: 30 days

About our client:

Our client is a leader in the agricultural and horticultural sectors, renowned for their commitment to innovation and sustainable land management. With a proud history of delivering large-scale, complex projects, they specialise in creating integrated solutions that enhance productivity and environmental stewardship. Their work spans prestigious vineyards, premium horticultural developments, and broad-acre farming, where they apply a "whole of system" approach to ensure every element of the irrigation and landscape design works in harmony. They are seeking a like-minded professional to join their dynamic team and contribute to their portfolio of high-calibre projects.

About the Role:

On behalf of our client, we are seeking a highly experienced and passionate Irrigation Manager/Designer to take a leading role in the delivery of sophisticated irrigation and water management projects. This is a pivotal position where you will be responsible for the end-to-end process, from initial site analysis and strategic planning through to the detailed design and hands-on management of complex irrigation systems. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker with a deep practical understanding of agronomy, hydrology, and modern irrigation technologies, capable of delivering solutions that are both innovative and commercially astute.

Key Duties & Responsibilities:

Technical Analysis & Strategic Planning:

• Conduct comprehensive site assessments, including detailed analysis of soil types, crop growth characteristics, and topographical data to inform system design.
• Interpret aerial imagery, GIS data, and soil reports to create detailed maps that outline soil variability, vegetation patterns, and hydrological features.
• Evaluate water sources for quality and long-term availability, ensuring sustainable and reliable supply for agricultural and horticultural operations.
• Collaborate closely with agronomists, viticulturists, and other agribusiness professionals to develop integrated irrigation, drainage, and nutrient management plans.

Design & Project Management:

• Design advanced, efficient, and automated irrigation systems tailored to specific site conditions, crop requirements, and water conservation goals.
• Lead and manage complex irrigation projects from conception to completion, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest technical standards.
• Prepare detailed estimates, competitive quotes, and comprehensive tender submissions for a variety of projects, from boutique vineyards to large-scale horticultural enterprises.
• Establish and oversee monitoring programs to track system performance, water usage, and plant health, making data-driven recommendations for continuous improvement.

Client Advisory & Environmental Stewardship:

• Provide expert advisory services to clients, delivering clear, actionable plans and detailed reports on irrigation strategy, system performance, and optimised water management.
• Develop and implement site-specific environmental protection programs focused on sustainable water use, runoff management, and salinity control.
• Proactively identify opportunities for system upgrades and technological integration to enhance efficiency, reduce operational costs, and improve environmental outcomes.

Essential Qualifications & Experience:

• A relevant Trade Qualification or higher (e.g., in Agriculture, Horticulture, Irrigation, or Civil Engineering) is essential.
• Substantial and proven post-qualification experience in a similar irrigation design and management role, preferably within the horticultural or viticultural sectors.
• A demonstrated hands-on commitment to seeing projects through from the design office to successful on-ground implementation.

Essential Skills & Attributes:

• Proven ability to work autonomously, demonstrating strong self-motivation and initiative to manage your own workload and project deliverables without constant supervision.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaise effectively and build rapport with clients, stakeholders, and team members at all levels.
• A collaborative and proactive team player who is willing to share knowledge, support colleagues, and contribute to a positive team culture.
• A strong aptitude for problem-solving and the ability to adapt your skills and knowledge to the unique challenges of each new project and site.

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