Assistant Irrigation Manager

South Valley Farms is seeking an energetic and results-driven Assistant
Irrigation Manager to join our local almond/pistachio farm team!

Summary:

The Assistant Irrigation Manager supports the daily operation and maintenance of the irrigation systems. Working closely with the Irrigation Manager, this role helps supervise irrigation staff, coordinate water delivery, maintain system performance, and support improvement projects. The Assistant Irrigation Manager helps ensure irrigation systems operate safely, efficiently, and in compliance with company policies and applicable regulations.

Responsibilities:

• Assist in supervising employees assigned to irrigation operations.
• Support the Irrigation Manager in developing operating and capital budgets.
• Plan and coordinate preventive maintenance activities to maximize system reliability.
• Ensure adequate materials, equipment, and labor are available for repairs and maintenance.
• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair major irrigation system failures.
• Help identify root causes of equipment failures and implement preventive solutions.
• Coordinate water delivery activities to support crop production needs.
• Monitor irrigation system performance and make operational adjustments as needed.
• Recommend improvements and system modifications that increase efficiency and reduce costs.
• Work with farm operations and other departments to complete projects on time.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and safety requirements.
• Coordinate with vendors and contractors to secure products and services when needed.
• Maintain accurate records related to maintenance, repairs, and irrigation activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• High school or GED required, associate degree in Agriculture, Irrigation Technology, Engineering Technology, or a related technical field preferred.
• 3+ years of irrigation operations and maintenance experience. Tree crop farming knowledge a plus.
• Supervisory or team leadership experience is preferred.
• Working knowledge of irrigation equipment, water distribution systems, pumps, and controls.
• Mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and troubleshooting skills.
• Experience with steel and PVC pipe installation, maintenance, and repair.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, maps, and technical drawings.
• Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, and Teams).
• Ability to prioritize tasks and respond effectively to emergency repairs.
• Valid driver's license.
• First Aid and CPR certification required or ability to obtain within a specified timeframe.

Working conditions:

• The physical demands below describe what is generally required to perform this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.
• Perform work that includes standing, walking, and traversing uneven terrain while conducting field inspections, supervising crews, and overseeing agricultural operations.
• Occasionally lift, carry, push, or move items weighing up to 50 pounds, typically in non‑routine situations or when assisting field staff.
• Periodically position self to access work areas, equipment, or materials, including reaching, bending, stooping, kneeling, climbing, balancing, and navigating steps or equipment platforms.
• Demonstrate sufficient manual dexterity and coordination to operate controls, open and close gates, handle tools or materials as needed, and use electronic devices in both office and field settings.
• Maintain effective verbal and visual communication to exchange information, provide instruction, and identify operational or safety issues.
• Have adequate visual acuity to observe crop conditions, equipment operation, personnel activity, and environmental hazards, including near and distance vision, depth perception, and peripheral awareness.
• Physical exertion is generally intermittent, with primary responsibilities focused on supervision, coordination, planning, and decision‑making rather than routine manual labor.

• The work environment below describes conditions the employee may encounter while performing this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made when appropriate.
• Work is conducted in both office and outdoor agricultural environments, requiring regular presence in fields, facilities, and operational work sites.
• The role involves exposure to varying weather conditions, including temperature extremes, sunlight, wind, and changing seasonal conditions.
• Regular presence around moving agricultural machinery, vehicles, tools, and…