Job Description

Position Title: Irrigation Specialist
Department: Facilities
Reports To: Assistant Director Facilities - Grounds
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Location: University Grounds

The Irrigation Specialist is responsible for the design, installation, maintenance, and repair of irrigation systems on campus grounds. The role ensures that the university’s landscaping is efficiently watered, conserving water and ensuring that lawns, plants, and trees are healthy. This individual must be knowledgeable about irrigation technologies and best practices for water management in diverse environments. This individual must have experience in snow plowing and using heavy equipment.

Key Responsibilities:

Irrigation System Installation & Design:

• Plan, install, and configure irrigation systems for new landscape projects.
• Design efficient irrigation layouts that maximize water usage while minimizing waste.
• Select appropriate materials, equipment, and technologies for installations.

System Maintenance & Repair:

• Conduct regular inspections of irrigation systems, identifying and fixing leaks, malfunctions, or inefficiencies.
• Replace damaged or malfunctioning components such as pipes, valves, sprinklers, and timers.
• Adjust and program irrigation systems for seasonal changes, optimizing watering schedules based on weather and plant needs.

Water Management & Conservation:

• Monitor water usage and develop strategies to improve water conservation.
• Utilize water-efficient technologies such as smart controllers, rain sensors, and drip irrigation systems.
• Work with grounds and landscaping teams to ensure proper hydration without overuse of water resources.

Record-Keeping & Reporting:

• Maintain detailed records of irrigation systems, including blueprints, maintenance logs, and water usage reports.
• Generate reports on system performance and suggest improvements to enhance efficiency and conservation.

Collaboration & Training:

• Work closely with the groundskeeping team to align irrigation practices with landscaping goals.
• Train staff on proper use and basic troubleshooting of irrigation systems.
• Coordinate with external vendors when necessary for system upgrades or repairs.

Safety & Compliance:

• Ensure that all irrigation systems are compliant with local, state, and federal regulations, especially concerning water usage.
• Adhere to safety protocols when handling equipment and chemicals.

Qualifications:

• Education: High school diploma or GED required. Certification in irrigation design, water management, or a related field is preferred.
• Experience: At least 3 years of experience in irrigation system installation, maintenance, and repair, preferably in a large-scale or institutional setting.
• Technical Skills:
  • Knowledge of different types of irrigation systems (e.g., drip, sprinkler, bubbler).
  • Proficiency in reading blueprints and schematics related to irrigation layouts.
  • Familiarity with smart irrigation technologies and automated controllers.
  • Strong troubleshooting skills for identifying system issues.
• Physical Ability: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, operate machinery, and work outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Certifications: Irrigation Technician Certification (ITC) or similar is a plus.

FAITH and EDUCATIONAL COMMITMENT

1. Commitment to the educational mission of Calvin as a Christian liberal arts University affiliated with the Christian Reformed Church.

2. A commitment to the Christian faith and to the integration of faith, learning, and student development.

DIVERSITY COMMITMENT

Demonstrated awareness and commitment to effectively establishing relationships and positive communication across multiple dimensions of diversity including, but not limited to, race, gender, physical limitations, class, or religious perspectives.