Ian Ateku

Irrigation Engineer with over 6 years of experience leading the design, installation, and optimization of large-scale irrigation systems across East Africa. Proven expertise in drip and sprinkler systems, hydraulic design, fertigation support, and pump sizing for commercial agriculture. Experienced in managing multi-acre irrigation projects, improving water-use efficiency, and leading technical teams.

Strong background in system troubleshooting, performance monitoring, and delivering cost-effective irrigation solutions for agribusiness operations.

Irrigation Manager - Pearl of Africa Oil and Nut Company - Kassanda, Uganda

(2025-08 - 2026-04)

Managing irrigation operations across multiple farm blocks, ensuring efficient water distribution and optimal crop performance.

• Developing and implement irrigation schedules based on crop stage, soil conditions, and climate data.
• Monitoring soil moisture using sensors and tensiometers to guide irrigation decisions.
• Supporting fertigation processes including monitoring and adjustment of EC and pH levels to optimize nutrient uptake.
• Applying practical understanding of crop nutrition to improve irrigation and fertigation efficiency.
• Analysing system performance including flow rates and water usage to improve efficiency.
• Supervising installation and maintenance of irrigation infrastructure including pumps, pipelines, and storage systems.
• Diagnosing and resolve system faults including pressure losses, leaks, and blockages.
• Training field technicians on irrigation operation, maintenance, and best practices.
• Preparing irrigation performance reports and recommend system improvements.

Irrigation & Construction Manager - Stable Foods Ltd - Homabay, Kenya

(2022-11 - 2025-08)

• Led design and installation of irrigation systems covering 200+ acres including drip, sprinkler, and rain gun systems.
• Designed hydraulic systems including pump sizing, pipeline layouts, and reservoir structures.
• Integrated fertigation practices into irrigation systems, applying knowledge of EC, pH, and crop nutrient requirements.
• Carrying out soil tests like EC, PH and subsequently planning for "leaching irrigation" in cases of high salinity.
• Managed multidisciplinary teams for irrigation installation, borehole development, and water infrastructure projects.
• Oversaw procurement of irrigation materials ensuring cost efficiency and timely delivery.
• Supervised installation and commissioning of irrigation systems in compliance with technical specifications.
• Conducted system performance evaluations and implemented improvements to enhance efficiency.
• Supported regulatory compliance including water abstraction permits and environmental requirements.
• Trained junior technicians on system installation and maintenance.

Operations Associate Manager - Agrikick Farm Solutions - Nairobi, Kenya

(2021-07 - 2022-07)

• Conducted field assessments to determine irrigation requirements and water availability.
• Designed customized irrigation systems based on crop and site conditions.
• Prepared BoQs, quotations, and technical proposals for irrigation projects.
• Managed client relationships and successfully closed projects worth over KES 4 million.
• Provided technical advisory to farmers on irrigation system operation and water management.
• Supported marketing and outreach initiatives promoting irrigation technologies.

Technical Assistant - Drip Masters East Africa - Nairobi, Kenya

(2020-01 - 2021-06)

• Conducted site surveys and collected field data for irrigation system design.
• Prepared Bills of Quantities and cost estimates for irrigation installations.
• Supported project planning, scheduling, and budgeting.
• Supervised technicians during irrigation system installation.
• Monitored project progress and reported technical challenges.
• Provided after-sales support including troubleshooting and system inspections.

Bachelor of Science - Agricultural Engineering - Egerton University (2014 - 2019)