People Strategy, Equity, and Culture

Irrigation Technician/Groundskeeper

  • Title: Irrigation Technician/Groundskeeper
  • Class: Classified
  • Exempt Status: Non-Exempt
  • Grade: 20

Job Summary

Under the general direction of Grounds Management, installs, maintains and manages the computerized irrigation systems, controllers and backflow devices in a safe manner. Primary accountabilities also include monitoring and operating the college’s computerized water management system and performing all the duties of a Groundskeeper position. Job requires well developed verbal and writing skills to present and exchange technical information and specifications with grounds maintenance management, staff, co-workers, sub-contractors, and outside vendors.Performs work as a designated essential personnel. Responsible for producing journey level work output on an independent basis subject to supervisory direction and review.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Operates, maintains and repairs existing irrigation systems to ensure adequate moisture for plantings. Sets and maintains automatic irrigation systems to run systematically according to the landscape care program.
  2. Designs, installs, tests and maintains new irrigation systems, backflow devices and controllers. May provide functional and technical direction to other grounds staff with regard to irrigation systems design, installation and maintenance.
  3. Monitors and operates college wide Maxicom System (computerized water management system). Replaces hardware as needed for this system (e.g., wires, valves, etc.)
  4. Operates special and/or heavy equipment and vehicles to perform the duties of an irrigation specialist and equipment operator. May be required to operate backhoe and/or pay loader.
  5. Assists in planning and construction of special campus projects on all campuses as assigned.
  6. Performs duties of a Groundskeeper II position.
  7. Installs and maintains all irrigation backflow devices district wide. May test district wide backflow devices.
  8. Works with Grounds Foreperson to plan and complete landscape projects at multiple sites.
  9. Orders irrigation supplies, spare parts and equipment as authorized and takes deliveries on or off campus. Obtains quotes for services from outside contractors as requested, in compliance with college guidelines.
  10. Documents and maintains appropriate logs, records and inventory of systems. Such as blue prints using Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) software and geographical information systems (GIS).
  11. Recommends and assists in prioritization of upgrades and replacement of systems and equipment. Assist in budget preparation related to this work.
  12. Coordinates the college’s efforts under the City BES Sewer Credit Program to ensure that appropriate credits are received.
  13. Responds to work order request and needs for assistance through various communication methods.
  14. Performs specialized tasks during adverse weather conditions and college closures. In the event of unscheduled closures due to weather events and/or other circumstances, serves as “essential personnel” for reopening the college.
  15. Maintains a safe work environment and performs all duties in a safe manner. Observes and adhere to all safety rules required by the college and regulatory agencies. Reports all safety violations to management.
  16. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Work Environment

Work is performed primarily outdoors in all types of extreme weather conditions and involves use of chemicals, pesticides, and other substances. Position involves exposure to ventilation problems, noise extremes and inclement weather. Work pressures and disturbances of workflow and irregularities in work schedule are expected.

Physical Requirements

Job requires considerable and usually sustained physical effort. Strength and agility for heavy lifting and knowledge of correct body dynamics is necessary for this position. Job requires ability to operate physically demanding equipment. Travel between college locations using college-owned vehicle or personal vehicle may be required.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent; three years of work experience in design, installation, and operation of computer controlled irrigation systems. Experience and proficiency in performing landscape maintenance. Knowledge of the following: safe use of pesticides; safe use of heavy and specialized equipment; drainage and water management; principles of water conservation and audit; and State, County and City plumbing codes as they relate to irrigation system installations. Computer skills required sufficient to operate the college’s computerized water management system. Good oral and written communication skills required to present and exchange technical information and specifications. Must be able to use a respirator when required.

Must possess an acceptable driving record and a valid driver’s license for operation of a motor vehicle in the State of Oregon and possess an acceptable driving record in the State of Oregon.

A valid public pesticide applicator apprentice license and forklift certification within nine months of employment.

Maxicom operator certification within twelve months of employment.

State of Oregon Backflow Assembly Tester Certification within twelve months of employment.

Reviewed: 12/18

  • Revised: 8/2017; 3/2017; 5/2016
  • Replaces: Irrigation Technician/Groundskeeper, 2/2016