Job Description

Posting number: 2026-00259

Department: Public Affairs

Job classification: Conservation Field Investigator

Posting type: Open & Promotional

Categories: Environmental Services

Summary

Grade 17 - Starting hourly rate: $23.40 Rate of pay depends on qualifications.

Examples of duties

JOB SUMMARY

The Conservation Field Investigator serves as a primary point of contact for residential and commercial customers at their homes and businesses. The Conservation Field Investigator conducts irrigation consultations during which they evaluate irrigation system performance, identify sources of water inefficiencies, and recommend practical improvements. These consultations address high water bill concerns, resolve complex water use issues, help identify the source of leaks, and connect customers with applicable SAWS conservation programs and incentives.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Conducts irrigation/landscape water conservation audits of residential and commercial irrigation systems and landscapes. Identifies and assesses opportunities based on the customer's unique situation to improve water use efficiency through landscape changes, irrigation management and available technologies.
• As a subject matter expert, educates commercial and residential customers about water efficient landscapes, appropriate landscape irrigation scheduling, and programs and technology available to customers to assist in landscape transformations that result in water conservation.
• May identify issues or conservation opportunities for customers for other water using equipment such as pools, water softeners, hot water tanks, and indoor plumbing.
• Compiles and analyzes data to resolve complex water use situations.
• Provides information to customers about SAWS Conservation programs.
• Recommends enforcement activity as required.
• Responds to difficult customer relations situations, involving upset and dissatisfied customers, takes action to resolve complaints where appropriate with sensitivity and good judgment.
• Writes articles, and scripts for videos they may appear in for GardenStyleSA.com or other SAWS related conservation materials.
• Represents SAWS and may make public presentations at community events, independently or with other SAWS staff.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

DECISION MAKING

• Works under limited supervision.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• High School Diploma or GED and three years' experience performing conservation, landscape, irrigation or related field experience OR Bachelor's Degree from an institution accredited by a recognized accrediting agency and 6 months of directly related experience.
• Valid Class "C" Texas Driver's License.
• TCEQ Irrigation Technician, Landscape Irrigator or Irrigation Inspector License within 12 months of hire.
• Ability to report to work on time, maintain a good attendance record, and work all designated work schedules.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bilingual in English/Spanish.
• Ability to communicate landscape conservation concepts verbally and in writing to the general public.
• Experience working with the general public on a customer service, volunteer educator or similar interactions.
• Landscape Irrigator License from the State of Texas.

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 tactfully and effectively handle sensitive customer relations situations and diffuse situations that are highly emotional and volatile.
• Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
• Ability to meet the required performance standards within the area of assignment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS

Physical requirements include lifting up to 50 lbs. occasionally and pushing a maximum force of 105 lbs. through situations such as turning valves on and off. Subject to standing, sitting, walking, climbing, bending, crawling, squatting, kneeling, 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.