Irrigation Foreman

Role Overview

Our client, a leading agricultural enterprise, is seeking an Irrigation Foreman to own the day-to-day delivery of water to fine beans and tenderstem crops across production farms in Laikipia. This is a field-based, hands-on position: you will decide when and how much to irrigate, keep drip and overhead systems running, and lead the team that carries out the work. Because crop quality, yield and export compliance all depend on water being applied accurately and consistently, the person in this role directly protects the productivity of the farm.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and execute irrigation schedules for fine beans and tenderstems according to crop stage, soil moisture readings, weather conditions and water availability, adjusting frequency and duration as field conditions change.
• Assess soil moisture and crop water status through regular field walks, moisture monitoring tools and visual checks, and act quickly on signs of stress, waterlogging or uneven application.
• Operate, inspect and maintain drip and overhead irrigation infrastructure, including pumps, filters, mainlines, laterals, emitters and sprinkler heads.
• Carry out plumbing and mechanical troubleshooting, repair leaks, blockages and damaged lines, and run preventive maintenance so that downtime does not disrupt irrigation cycles.
• Supervise and coordinate irrigation and field teams, allocating daily duties, monitoring work quality, and training staff on correct system handling and safe practice.
• Manage water abstraction and use in line with permitted allocations, and keep records of irrigation activity, water usage, maintenance and repairs.
• Support GlobalGAP and agricultural safety requirements, including safe water use, hygienic handling of irrigation equipment, and compliance with on-farm health and safety rules.
• Coordinate with production, agronomy and field management colleagues on planting, spraying, harvesting and other field activities so that irrigation supports rather than disrupts the wider programme.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Diploma in Agriculture, Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy or a related field.
• At least 2 years of active irrigation or farm supervisory experience, ideally on export vegetable production.
• Direct experience working with fine beans and tenderstems, with a working understanding of their water requirements at different growth stages.
• Demonstrated experience supervising and coordinating field teams.
• Practical knowledge of drip and overhead irrigation systems, including operation, scheduling and system performance checks.
• Basic irrigation and plumbing troubleshooting skills, with a preventive maintenance mindset.
• Familiarity with GlobalGAP compliance, safe water use and agricultural safety standards.
• Willingness to work in the field environment of Laikipia, with the reliability and attention to detail the role demands.