Irrigation Specialist

Job Description:

Irrigation Specialist

Description

Grade 15 - Starting hourly rate: $20.95. Rate of pay depends on qualifications.

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY

The Irrigation Specialist is responsible for managing, operating, repairing, troubleshooting and performing corrective and preventative maintenance on irrigation systems throughout SAWS facilities. This position also maintains compliance with contracts and inspection requirements.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Programs, monitors and manages irrigation systems to include using web-based applications to review flow rates, system schedules, alerts, and irregularities.
• Conducts scheduled inspection of sprinkler, standard irrigation, and water systems monthly and coordinates the yearly backflow inspections for various SAWS facilities.
• Maintains irrigation system, considering water supply, static water pressure, working water pressure, precipitation rate, soil, planting, and existing or planned improvements.
• Maintains water mains, cast iron and PVC pipes and hydraulic systems.
• Repairs or replaces inner parts of irrigation heads, handling parts and equipment to maintain proper function. Replaces low voltage wiring as needed.
• Performs construction monitoring of irrigation systems as directed.
• Inspects non-potable water piping for irrigation and potable water piping for new and old buildings.
• Adjusts gallons per minute on bubblers in tree planters and flowerbeds.
• Obtains information on existing site conditions and sources of water. Adjusts irrigation controllers seasonally to comply with SAWS rules and regulations.
• Oversees irrigation projects and works closely with contractors. May work on other grounds related assignments as needed.
• Investigates and recommends corrective action for defective irrigation systems.
• Maintains inventory and orders equipment, materials, parts and supplies as needed.
• Oversees the irrigation contract for the annual backflow and TCEQ inspection requirements.
• Performs related duties and fulfills responsibilities as required.

DECISION MAKING

• Works under limited supervision.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Four (4) years of increasingly responsible experience in irrigation design, construction, repair, and inspection, including one (1) year of supervisory or lead experience.
• Valid Class “C” Texas Driver’s License.
• Must be able to obtain a TCEQ Irrigator Technician licenses within 18 months of employment.

JOB DIMENSIONS

• Knowledge of and ability to learn multiple database and software platforms.
• Ability to analyze data and draw conclusions from multiple data and information sources.
• Ability to establish and maintain contact with internal and external customers and the community at all levels.
• Ability to operate computers and other standard office equipment.
• Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
• Ability to meet the required performance standards within the area of assignment.
• Ability to handle customer relations situations and diffuse situations tactfully and effectively.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS

Physical requirements include lifting up to 50 lbs. occasionally and pushing a maximum force of 100 lbs. through situations such as turning valves on and off. Subject to standing, sitting, walking, climbing, bending, crawling, squatting, kneeling, reaching, twisting and working in cramped and strained positions for long periods of time to perform job scope.

Working conditions are in a field environment with exposure to adverse weather and traffic conditions and other safety/health hazards. Operates a SAWS vehicle and equipment on a daily basis.

May be required to work hours other than regular daytime schedules such as weekends, shift work, overtime and on-call duty.

San Antonio Water System values the contributions of all its employees, providing them the best in compensation and benefits. The benefits package is designed to attract and retain a workforce of qualified employees who share a responsibility in providing quality water to 1 million consumers.
From an affordable medical and dental plan to life-sustaining retirement and insurance plans, we offer benefits that reward employees for their commitment to a challenging career at SAWS. Employee benefits include the following:

• Competitive, market-based salaries
• Performance-based incentives
• Medical benefits
• Dental benefits
• Life insurance
• Prescription drug program
• Vision care plan
• Two retirement plans
• Deferred compensation plans (457 plan)
• Disability income
• Paid leave (vacation, sick, personal)
• Education assistance program
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible, tax-deferred health and dependent care spending accounts
• Wellness programs
• On-Site Fitness Facilities
• Community service opportunities

Closing Date/Time: 5/25/2025 11:59 PM Central

Salary:

$43,576.00 - $71,739.00 Annually