Kimberley Agricultural Investment Pty Ltd
location_pin Kununurra, WA
money_bag A$120,000-$150,000 p/a
home_work On-site
Posted 1 day ago
Kimberley Agricultural Investment (KAI) is one of Australia's largest and most progressive irrigated farming operations, based in the Ord River Irrigation Area in the East Kimberley. We are seeking an experienced
Irrigation Manager
to lead the planning, delivery, and optimisation of irrigation across our broadacre cropping program.
This role is central to achieving our production, efficiency, and water-use targets. You'll be working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment alongside experienced farm, operations, and production and land development managers.
About the Role
Reporting to the Farm Manager, the Irrigation Manager is responsible for developing and executing an irrigation schedule that meets crop requirements and aligns with seasonal and operational plans. You will manage staff, resources, bulk water ordering and delivery, on-farm water infrastructure, and the tail-water recycling system.
You'll operate at both strategic and hands-on levels—planning ahead while ensuring day-to-day execution is safe, efficient, and timely.
Key Responsibilities
Irrigation Planning & Delivery
Develop and implement an irrigation schedule to meet crop water requirements.
Forecast and order bulk water; manage water deliveries and usage reporting.
Oversee the on-farm tail water recycling system to maximise efficiency.
Recruit, train, and manage irrigation staff and supervisors.
Delegate daily tasks and ensure safe, coordinated operations.
Build a high-performing team culture aligned with KAI values.
Infrastructure & Maintenance
Schedule and oversee maintenance of irrigation assets, pumps, channels, and recycled water systems.
Coordinate emergency repairs and minimise operational downtime.
Planning & Reporting
Lead daily toolbox meetings and weekly planning sessions.
Contribute to monthly operational reviews and annual planning, including budget development.
Maintain accurate records and reporting for water use, maintenance, and staff performance.
What Success Looks Like
Water-use efficiency targets met or exceeded.
Tail-water recycling system performing at or above expectations.
Irrigation delivered on time to meet crop and operations plans.
Infrastructure operating reliably with minimal downtime.
Strong safety compliance, fatigue management, and TOIL planning.
Effective working relationships across Farm Management, Operations, Service and Land Development divisions.
About You
You're a practical, organised, and resourceful leader who thrives in a hands-on environment. You enjoy managing people, solving problems, and working ahead of the curve.
Required (or willing to obtain)
Demonstrated experience with large-scale irrigation operations (flood and/or pressurised).
Experience supervising teams
HR licence (or ability to obtain).
Mechanical aptitude for servicing and maintaining farm and irrigation equipment.
Strong understanding of workplace safety practices.
Competent computer and record-keeping skills.
Familiarity with GPS and precision agriculture systems.
Welding and fabrication skills.
Capabilities We Value
Optimising Resources:
Able to plan ahead, allocate effectively, and minimise waste.
Developing Teams:
Builds capability, culture, and accountability.
Communication:
Clear, concise, and confident across all levels of the business.
Relationship Building:
Works well with cross-functional teams and external partners.
Why KAI?
Work with one of Australia's largest and most forward-thinking irrigated farming businesses.
Live and work in the East Kimberley—an iconic region with a strong community and unique lifestyle.
Be part of a team driving growth, efficiency, and innovation in northern agriculture.
Competitive remuneration package, with opportunities for training and career development.
How to Apply
Please send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience to
and
For more information, contact
Luke McKay -
#J-*****-Ljbffr