Irrigation Technician

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

The class of Irrigation Technician is given responsibility for the completion of all park irrigation system repair, maintenance, monitoring, operation, and management tasks performed by the park maintenance division. This class is distinguished by the responsibility for outdoor irrigation systems and equipment only.

Direct supervision is provided by a higher-level position. Indirect supervision may be provided by a Parks & Recreation Superintendent. Exercises lead-type supervision of subordinate staff. Depending on assignment, duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Install, maintain, repair, and service all park irrigation systems and related "energized" electric equipment.
• Install new sprinkler heads by digging trenches, laying pipe, and connecting sprinkler heads in order to make watering more efficient.
• Digs ground using trenching equipment, pick shovel, and spade to repair broken water lines and sprinkler heads.
• Repair sprinkler heads, valves, and control panels by disassembling, replacing parts, and reassembling.
• Adjust sprinkler heads for proper ground height and distribution patterns.
• Install, repair, maintain, and monitor irrigation system clocks and control panels.
• Monitor proper operation of booster pumps and wells providing water to irrigation systems and report problems to supervisor.
• Inspect work in progress and upon completion to ensure that it meets required standards.
• Operate tools, equipment, and machinery necessary to perform job duties.
• Monitor electrical control panels, equipment and irrigation systems reported to be in need of repair.
• Operate, repair, maintain, monitor, and install irrigation system control panels, wiring, pipe, valves, quick couplers, sprinkler heads and roller base units.
• Using a computer, maintain and report material, labor and time costs; requisition or purchase materials and maintain inventory of information and supplies.
• Plan, schedule, perform, train, and assign irrigation system related work to subordinates and other personnel.
• Supervise and participate in the maintenance, repair, and service of park irrigation systems and related equipment.
• Perform other related duties as required.

• Methods, practices, tools, and equipment used in operating and maintaining park irrigation systems.
• Sizes, types, and specifications of pipes and fittings for proper volume and pressure used in irrigation systems.
• Irrigation requirements for various soil types, turfgrass, trees, and ornamental plants.
• Basic mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and hydraulic principles.
• Common practices, methods, and materials used for park maintenance.
• Methods and procedures used in electrical and plumbing trades as they relate to irrigation and landscape maintenance.

• Understand and follow oral and written instructions
• Understand and work from general instructions and specifications.
• Repair, maintain, and operate irrigation systems, including but not limited to, wiring, control panels, valves, sprinkler heads, and pipe.
• Make simple time and materials estimates.
• Work nights, weekends, and holidays as necessary.
• Perform physical labor for extended periods of time; work is performed in all weather conditions.
• Read, understand, and apply conversion charts for water pressure and water flow; read and understand technical manuals, wiring diagrams, blueprints, and charts.
• Analyze and diagnose irrigation system malfunctions.
• Read and write the English language at a level necessary for efficient job performance.
• Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
• Supervise the work of subordinate personnel.

Experience:

Two years of experience in irrigation system operation, maintenance, repair, and/or installation.

The completion of a "certificate program" from an accredited college, university, or trade school in park irrigation systems or related field may substitute for the required experience.

Should certification and/or license be used to qualify for this position, then proof of said certification and/or license should be submitted with your application and will be required at the time of appointment.

Drivers License:
Possession of a valid California Class C Drivers License at the time of appointment. Loss of the Class C License is cause for discipline. This requirement may be reviewed on a case-by-case basis for individuals with disabilities.

Respiratory Protective Equipment:
Respiratory equipment may be required at times for dust, vapor, or gas exposure. The equipment may be required in emergency situations without notice.

Employees must complete twelve (12) months of probation at a satisfactory performance level prior to gaining permanent status.