What does an Irrigation Technician do?

An Irrigation Service Technician designs, installs and services equipment that waters vegetation. Some specialize in a particular field, such as residential systems for greener lawns. Others install commercial systems for landscaping outside of businesses.

Additional specialties include agricultural systems for supplying water to crops and sports and recreation systems that water natural turf, golf courses and other playing surfaces. By performing the duties listed in a Sprinkler System Installer job description, they can contribute to customer satisfaction and potentially encourage repeat business and referrals.

Irrigation Technician skills and qualifications

Key skills to consider adding to your Irrigation Technician job description include:

• In-depth understanding of water management science, soil science, irrigation technology and the parts and components of irrigation systems, including pumps, valves, controllers, piping, wiring and hydraulics

• Ability to safely and correctly use soldering and brazing tools, moisture sensors, soil tension testers, water flow meters, pipe cutters, leak detectors, hacksaws, mattocks and trencher machines

• Analytical and spatial reasoning skills to interpret site test results and use them to inform irrigation system designs

• Verbal communication skills to provide instructions to laborers assisting with the installation process and to facilitate conversations with customers

• Problem-solving and critical thinking skills to troubleshoot systems and make necessary repairs

• Computer skills to use computer-aided drafting (CAD), work order management (WOM), customer relationship management, project management, email and other software programs

• Ability to remain upright for long periods, work outdoors in extreme weather conditions and move heavy equipment from one place to another

• Recordkeeping skills to log services performed

Irrigation Technician experience requirements

Irrigation Technicians typically begin their careers as Assistant Sprinkler System Installers, working under the supervision of more experienced technicians. Several years of work experience may be adequate for independently installing simple residential and commercial systems. However, more experience is typically required for complex sports playing fields and agricultural systems.

Irrigation Technician education and training requirements

An Irrigation Technician doesn’t have formal education requirements, although some may earn a degree in irrigation technology. Some states require Irrigation System Technician licensing before working independently in the field. If licensing is mandatory in your area, consider adding “must hold a valid license” to the qualifications section of your Sprinkler System Installer job description.

When comparing candidates, you may prioritize those who hold voluntary certification, such as the Certified Irrigation Technician (CIT) credential awarded by the Irrigation Association or one of the WaterSense certifications granted by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Job description samples for similar positions

If this Sprinkler System Installer job description doesn’t adequately describe your open position, review the following related jobs:

• Gardener

• Groundskeeper

• Landscaper

Irrigation Technician job description FAQs

What’s the difference between a Landscaper and an Irrigation Technician?

A Landscaper selects plants and cares for grasses, shrubs and trees. An Irrigation Technician installs and maintains the sprinkler systems that deliver water to landscaping. In some cases, Landscapers and Irrigation Technicians may work together to design landscaping and irrigation systems for clients.

Who does an Irrigation Technician report to?

The title of the person an Irrigation Technician reports to varies. Companies may have a Crew Manager, Project Manager or Foreman who supervises Irrigation Technicians on-site. Alternatively, an off-site manager, such as a Field Service Manager or Operations Manager, may supervise an Irrigation Technician.

How can I make my Sprinkler System Installer job description stand out?

Consider highlighting the benefits of working for your organization by placing a bulleted list at the top of your job description. You might include employee benefits, minimum hourly pay rates, PTO and continuing education stipends for maintaining certification and licensure.