Irrigation Engineer

About the role

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is seeking an Irrigation Engineer Specialist to support the design, rehabilitation, expansion, and sustainable management of the Aweil Rice Irrigation Scheme in South Sudan. Working under the direct supervision of the Infrastructure Engineer and the overall guidance of the FAO Country Representative, the incumbent will focus on technical planning, design, supervision, and quality assurance of irrigation and water‑control infrastructure.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare engineering drawings, Bills of Quantities (BoQs), detailed Scopes of Work and technical specifications for irrigation and related construction works.
• Develop tender documents, technical specifications and participate in the technical evaluation of bids following FAO procurement procedures.
• Conduct field assessments and site surveys of canals, water‑control structures, pumping systems, drainage networks, embankments, access roads and associated facilities.
• Provide technical support on irrigation water management, crop water requirements, irrigation scheduling, soil moisture management and climate‑smart agricultural practices for rice and other priority crops.
• Assist in integrating irrigation infrastructure with crop production activities to improve productivity, food security and sustainable land and water use.

Required profile

• Relevant engineering degree (e.g., Civil, Agricultural, Water Resources) with experience in irrigation projects.
• Demonstrated ability to work in field conditions and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.
• Familiarity with FAO procurement and reporting procedures is advantageous.

Required skills

• Preparation of engineering drawings and technical specifications.
• Development of Bills of Quantities (BoQs) and Scopes of Work.
• Conducting field assessments and site surveys.
• Irrigation system design and water‑resource management.
• Knowledge of irrigation scheduling, soil moisture management and climate‑smart practices.