Irrigation Specialist

Position Summary:

The Irrigation Specialist is responsible for maintaining the irrigation system on campus. This individual will Operates power equipment and hand tools to install, maintain, and repair irrigation systems and related components, including irrigation lines, sprinkler heads, control panels, valves, pumps, etc. The position will report to the Grounds Manager. 

Working Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM

About the Work Unit:

Facilities provides support for all construction, renovation, and routine maintenance of University space and facilities; housekeeping services for approximately 5.8 million square feet of academic, administrative, residential, and recreational space; grounds care for 330 acres that are a registered arboretum; turf care for athletic fields; and utilities for the University Central and the Medical Center. 

Facilities annual budget exceeds $100 million in operating expenses and includes over 400 employees.  This branch manages major capital project expenditures totaling ~$125 million annually and facility renewal, replacement, and large maintenance project expenditures totaling ~$20 million annually. The Facilities Business Operations Center provides support to the entire department, specifically regarding the areas of Finance, Employee Relations, Information Systems, Contracts and General Administration.    

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

• Operates power equipment and hand tools to install, maintain, and repair irrigation systems and related components, including irrigation lines, sprinkler heads, control panels, valves, pumps, etc.
• Checks system for proper operation and timing
• May participate in the design or modification of new or existing systems
• Performs seasonal maintenance such as system charging and draining
• Maintains inventory of related parts and supplies
• May lead workers on irrigation projects and work on other grounds-related assignments as needed 

Supervisory Relationships:

This position does not have supervisory responsibility, this position reports administratively and functionally to the Grounds Manager.

Education and Certifications:

• A High school diploma or GED is necessary.
• Valid Tennessee driver’s license is necessary.

Experience and Skills:

• Knowledge of tools, equipment, techniques, skills, materials, and methods of irrigation system design, installation, and maintenance
• Ability to read blueprints, schematics, and drawings
• Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions
• Ability to operate equipment such as trenching machines, digging tools, and other related grounds/landscape equipment
• Ability to read and write in English
• Possess good math skills
• Ability to lead and direct the work of others
• Ability to work in a safe and efficient manner
• Possess two years’ irrigation installation and maintenance experience
• Possess the ability to sit, stand, walk, climb off  and on equipment, squat, kneel, reach, grasp, push, pull, twist, bend, lift and carry up to 50 pounds multiple times per shift, finger, talk, hear, and see.