Auraria Pipe​/Mechanical Trades II - Campus Irrigation Technician

Who We Are

Welcome to the Auraria Campus located in the Platte River Valley in downtown Denver. The campus serves 38,000 students and approximately 5,000 faculty and staff across the Community College of Denver, Metropolitan State University of Denver, and University of Colorado Denver.

This position serves as the Irrigation Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the Auraria Campus, independently managing all irrigation-related operations, including system start‑up, shut‑down, emergency repairs, monitoring, and performance optimization using web‑based controls across roughly 800 control zones.

The role also includes advanced irrigation, plumbing, pipe‑fitting, and low‑voltage electrical control work, overseeing campus well and pump systems, and supporting snow removal operations.

Full‑time, 40 hours per week, Monday‑Friday. Workday begins 5:30–7:00 a.m. and ends 2:00–3:30 p.m. depending on operational needs.

• Perform advanced irrigation, pipe/mechanical trades work related to the campus irrigation system, including inspections, installations, repairs, and monitoring water flow across campus irrigation plumbing and piping systems.
• Evaluate irrigation system performance, water flow, pressure, and sprinkler coverage to identify issues and implement corrective actions.
• Adjust irrigation schedules using digital controllers and web-based irrigation systems to support water conservation and efficient operations.
• Diagnose irrigation system failures and determine appropriate repair methods based on system conditions and operational needs.
• Troubleshoot and repair low‑voltage electrical control systems associated with irrigation operations.
• Evaluate well and pump system performance and implement operational or maintenance adjustments to maintain reliable irrigation service.
• Provide training, guidance, and technical support to staff on irrigation operations, sprinkler repairs, and irrigation installation and maintenance best practices.

• Serve as a lead worker for a small team of 2–3 Grounds I employees, providing technical guidance, mentorship, and training related to irrigation systems, plumbing repairs, equipment operation, and departmental standards.
• Provide hands‑on instruction and technical support on grounds equipment, hand tools, campus standards, and geographical area responsibilities.
• Perform back‑up grounds and irrigation work in assigned areas when staff are unavailable.
• Review completed work to ensure compliance with operational standards, irrigation best practices, and department expectations.
• Provide performance‑related feedback and operational input to the Grounds and Vehicle Maintenance departments.

• Monitor irrigation system performance and operational efficiency across campus grounds, including irrigation start‑up, tuning, fertilizing, aerating, seeding, top dressing, mowing, and trimming.
• Install, repair, and adjust drip irrigation systems for trees and shrubs, and perform trimming of trees, shrubs, and flowers as needed.
• Review irrigation system data, evaluate turf health and irrigation coverage, and implement necessary system adjustments and maintenance priorities.
• Adjust irrigation schedules and controller settings to support seasonal needs and water conservation efforts.
• Identify potential system failures and recommend repairs, upgrades, and operational improvements to enhance system reliability and efficiency.

• Operate, maintain, set up, and clean grounds and irrigation‑related equipment and vehicles in support of campus operations.
• Perform washing and cleaning of trash cans, patios, and entryways.
• Assist with maintaining safe, functional, and well‑maintained campus outdoor environments.
• Provide field support for irrigation system operations, repairs, and seasonal maintenance activities.

• Provide coverage as part of the campus Snow Removal Team, including support for snow and ice removal operations.
• Stock and maintain safety supplies and equipment for the Grounds Shop.
• Provide personal safety training and equipment to crew members.
• Lead and train…