Horticultural Irrigation Designer

Alam & Muskaan Limited is seeking 2 experienced Irrigation Designer to plan, design and oversee irrigation systems across our horticultural operations.

The position involves assessing orchard requirements, developing practical irrigation designs, determining system specifications and supporting the installation, commissioning and improvement of irrigation infrastructure.

You will work closely with management, orchard supervisors, contractors and suppliers to deliver efficient irrigation systems that support crop health, water conservation and operational requirements.

Key responsibilities

• Assess orchard layouts, crop requirements, soil conditions, terrain and available water sources.
• Design irrigation systems appropriate for individual orchard blocks and growing conditions.
• Calculate system flow rates, water pressure, pipe sizing and irrigation coverage.
• Prepare irrigation layouts, technical drawings, equipment specifications and installation plans.
• Select suitable pumps, filters, pipes, valves, sprinklers, drippers and automated control systems.
• Determine irrigation zones and watering schedules based on crop needs and site conditions.
• Review existing irrigation systems and recommend improvements, extensions or replacements.
• Provide technical guidance during installation, modification and commissioning.
• Inspect completed installations to confirm compliance with approved designs and performance requirements.
• Test irrigation systems and investigate pressure, coverage or water distribution problems.
• Develop maintenance recommendations and assist with diagnosing complex system faults.
• Liaise with suppliers, installation teams, orchard managers and clients.
• Maintain accurate design documentation, technical records and project schedules.
• Ensure irrigation designs support safe work practices, efficient water use and applicable environmental requirements.

Skills and experience

Applicants should have:

• A relevant New Zealand Level 4 qualification, or equivalent, or at least two years of relevant experience in irrigation design, irrigation systems or a closely related technical occupation.
• Knowledge of horticultural irrigation systems, including drip irrigation, micro-sprinklers, pumps, filtration and water distribution equipment.
• Experience interpreting site conditions and preparing irrigation layouts or technical plans.
• An understanding of hydraulic principles, including pressure, flow rates and irrigation coverage.
• The ability to identify technical problems and recommend practical design improvements.
• Good communication, planning and record-keeping skills.
• The ability to work independently and cooperate with orchard teams and contractors.

Experience with kiwifruit orchards, irrigation automation, fertigation systems or soil moisture monitoring would be beneficial.

Working conditions

The role involves both technical planning and practical site inspections. Travel between orchard sites may be required.

This role is fulltime requiring the successful applicant to work a minimum of 35 hours per week, however this is likely to increase during peak seasons to 45 hours.