Irrigation Specialist

Roles and responsibilities

• Ensure the contractor/s compliance with the standards and specifications of the contract documents.
• Maintain records of the contractor human and equipment daily resources.
• Undertake all site supervision and inspections when required or instructed by the Resident Engineer (RE) or the Assistant Resident Engineer (ARE).
• Liaise and daily follow up with the contractor. This is to ensure the contractor is managing its resources, health and safety, and equipment needs on the site.
• Be familiar with the project’s contract documents, detailed drawings, specifications, and health and safety measures together with any associated updates.
• Prepare daily report to the RE or ARE. This includes works orders, materials delivery, and daily inspections program.
• Follow up and implement any site instructions made by the RE and ARE.
• Apply and implement all quality controls and quality procedures of the site.
• Prepare any site measurements and surveying checks needed by the RE or ARE for pipes alignments and levels.
• Co-ordinate and co-operate with client project manager during their site inspections in the presence of the RE or ARE.
• Monitor contractor QA/QC activities and maintain relevant records.
• Assist the ARE and RE in the preparation of any correspondences in compliance with the contract documents and site requirements.
• Where site problems are found, work with the RE or ARE to resolve them promptly.
• Monitor the start-up, commissioning and handover of the site works. Including maintaining records of the project milestones.
• Maintain records of materials tests performed and executed works.
• Audit inspections for conformity to contract documents and contractor submitted plans.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements :

• Minimum 10 years of experience within similar projects
• Middle East experience preferred
• Relevant experience in the construction supervision

Preferred Qualifications :

• Technical Degree and/or equivalent

Desired candidate profile

1. System Inspections

• Pre-Installation Inspections: Reviewing site conditions before the installation of an irrigation system to ensure that plans and designs are appropriate for the landscape or agricultural needs.
• Post-Installation Inspections: Conducting thorough inspections after irrigation systems are installed to ensure they meet design specifications and are functioning correctly.
• Ongoing System Evaluations: Regularly inspecting the system’s performance, checking for leaks, blockages, broken components, or issues with water pressure, and ensuring that water distribution is uniform and efficient.
• Compliance Checks: Verifying that irrigation systems meet local codes, regulations, and environmental standards, including water conservation rules and the use of eco-friendly materials and practices.

2. Testing and Calibration

• System Testing: Performing tests to evaluate the performance of irrigation systems, checking for issues such as inconsistent water flow, improper coverage, and inefficiency.
• Calibration: Ensuring that systems such as sprinklers, drip lines, and valves are calibrated correctly for optimal water distribution.
• Water Efficiency Audits: Evaluating the efficiency of irrigation systems to reduce water waste, ensure conservation, and optimize operational costs.

3. Documentation and Reporting

• Inspection Reports: Writing detailed reports documenting inspection findings, recommendations for repairs or improvements, and compliance status. These reports are often submitted to clients, contractors, or government agencies.
• Record Keeping: Maintaining accurate records of inspections, maintenance schedules, repairs, and system upgrades for future reference.
• Permit and Certification Compliance: Ensuring that installations and repairs are in line with required permits and certifications and keeping accurate records for compliance purposes.

4. Maintenance Oversight

• Routine Maintenance: Identifying parts of the system that require regular maintenance, such as replacing worn-out valves, pumps, filters, or sprinkler heads.
• Repair Recommendations: Recommending necessary repairs or improvements based on findings during inspections.
• Water Pressure Monitoring: Checking for issues related to water pressure, flow, and uniformity, and providing solutions to optimize system function.

5. Quality Control

• Material Quality Checks: Inspecting materials used in irrigation systems, including pipes, tubing, sprinklers, and valves, to ensure they meet industry standards for quality, durability, and efficiency.
• Ensuring Safety: Ensuring that all systems are installed and operated safely, particularly around electrical components such as automated controllers and pumps.

6. Collaboration and Communication

• Working with Contractors and Engineers: Collaborating with engineers, landscape architects, or contractors to ensure that the installation of irrigation systems is in line with the design specifications and local regulations.
• Client Interaction: Communicating directly with clients or property owners to explain system operation, maintenance requirements, and any issues found during inspections.
• Training: Providing training or advice to maintenance crews or clients on proper operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of irrigation systems.

7. Environmental Considerations

• Water Conservation: Promoting sustainable water use practices, such as recommending drought-resistant plants, adjusting irrigation schedules based on weather conditions, and using rain sensors and other water-saving technologies.
• Soil and Landscape Assessment: Evaluating soil conditions and plant types to ensure that irrigation systems are designed and functioning in a way that supports healthy plant growth and water efficiency.