Irrigation Engineer

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Country Offices support governments in achieving food security, reducing hunger, and promoting sustainable development in agriculture, fisheries, and forestry. This involves managing natural and environmental resources effectively. In South Sudan, the Irrigation Engineer Specialist will contribute to the design, rehabilitation, expansion, and sustainable management of the Aweil Rice Irrigation Scheme, working under the direct supervision of the Infrastructure Engineer and overall guidance of the FAO Country Representative.

Job Purpose

This role is dedicated to the technical planning, design, supervision, and quality assurance of irrigation and water control infrastructure. The primary goal is to enhance rice production and improve water use efficiency within the Aweil Rice Irrigation Scheme. The position requires a focus on ensuring that all infrastructure development and management activities align with the objectives of increasing agricultural productivity and promoting sustainable land and water use practices, ultimately contributing to food security in the region.

Responsibilities

The Irrigation Engineer will prepare engineering drawings, Bills of Quantities (BoQs), and technical specifications for irrigation works and equipment. Responsibilities include supporting tender processes, conducting field assessments of existing infrastructure, and providing technical support on irrigation water management, particularly for rice cultivation. The role involves advising on crop water requirements, irrigation scheduling, and climate-smart agricultural practices. The engineer will support farmer training on water-efficient techniques, collaborate with agronomists and extension officers, and oversee the rehabilitation of land preparation, canal, and drainage systems. Guidance will be provided on irrigation requirements for key crops, and support will be given to establish farmer-based irrigation management systems. The incumbent will supervise and monitor construction works, implement quality control measures, and provide technical guidance to contractors. Reporting on progress, identifying deviations, and proposing corrective actions are key duties, along with certifying completed works and preparing final certificates. Regular updates on progress, constraints, and lessons learned will be provided to management.

Work Experience

A minimum of 7 years of relevant professional experience is required in irrigation and civil engineering infrastructure projects. This experience should encompass work on canals, diversion structures, and water distribution systems. Candidates holding a bachelor's degree will need two additional years of experience beyond the minimum requirement.

Skills

Key skills include demonstrated experience in conducting field surveys for irrigation projects, including topographic and hydraulic assessments. Proficiency in preparing irrigation completion reports, plans, and documentation is essential. The role requires expertise in developing Bills of Quantities (BoQs), technical specifications, and engineering drawings for irrigation and canal works. Proven experience in contract management for civil works, particularly in irrigation system installation and canal construction, is necessary. The ability to assess construction works on-site and produce accurate technical reports is crucial. Experience in the technical evaluation of bids for civil works contracts and representing FAO in meetings with local authorities is also important. Familiarity with AutoCAD/ARCHICAD and MS Office is required. Limited knowledge of Arabic is an advantage.

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