Irrigation Technician

James Madison University; Harrisonburg (VA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 35,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

$2,000 sign-on bonus

Job summary

James Madison University’s Facilities Management is seeking an Irrigation Technician to install, repair, and maintain irrigation systems across campus.

The role requires operating a range of equipment, adhering to safety protocols, and coordinating preventive maintenance to support athletic fields and landscapes. A valid driver's license and ability to drive within two years of hire are required; overtime may be necessary for events and weather-related coverage.

Qualifications

• Working knowledge of landscaping practices and procedures.
• Knowledge and experience in the installation, repair, maintenance, and scheduling of turf irrigation.
• Knowledge of proper handling, storage, and disposal of pesticides.
• Must have knowledge of Sentinal irrigation controllers (or other irrigation control systems) and athletic field maintenance, or the ability to obtain.
• Ability to do physically demanding work for extended periods of time in a variety of environmental conditions.
• Ability to operate a variety of landscaping equipment such as large trucks, tractors, mowers, and snow removal equipment.
• Ability to recognize and identify turf problems and diseases or the ability to obtain.
• Must meet eligibility requirements to drive within 2 years of hire.

Responsibilities

• Installs, repairs, troubleshoots, inspects, and performs preventive maintenance on and schedules all irrigation for the university.
• Keeps campus beautified by trimming and edging at the appropriate times and by properly and safely operating the equipment.
• Leads work of others that has been assigned and ensures work is performed in a safe manner.
• Operates safely and properly a variety of equipment including but not limited to: Dingo trenching equipment, riding mowers, tractors, sweepers for turf, seeders, fertilizer spreaders, aerators, deep-tine equipment, highly complex mowing equipment, and snow removal equipment to maintain attractive athletic fields.
• Uses pesticides safely as directed including proper application, storage, and or disposal.
• The employee is required to work all home football games.
• The employee in this position will be considered designated, meaning the work performed is essential to university operations and the employee will be required to work during periods of authorized closings.

Skills

Landscaping knowledge

Irrigation systems

Pesticide handling

Sentinal irrigation controllers

Physical stamina

Equipment operation

Turf diagnostics

Tools

Sentinal controllers

Job description

Working Title: Irrigation Technician

State Role Title: Transportation Operator II

Position Type: Full-time Staff (Classified)

Position Status: Full-Time

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt: Eligible for Overtime

College/Division: Business Services

Department: 300130 - Landscape AUX

Pay Band: 2

Pay Rate: Pay Range

Specify Range or Amount: $32,400 - $34,900

Is this a JMU only position? No

Is this a grant-funded position? No

Is this a Conflict of Interest designated position? No

Beginning Review Date: 10/27/2026

About JMU

At James Madison University (JMU), we’re more than just a publicly funded institution — we’re a vibrant, welcoming community nestled on a stunning campus where innovation, collaboration, and personal growth thrive. Our mission is to prepare students for a bright future, and we believe that starts with supporting the people who make it all possible: our employees.

Why Work at JMU

We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your professional journey and personal wellbeing:

• Generous Leave: Enjoy paid vacation, sick leave, parental leave, community service leave, and 19 paid holidays annually.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Access high-quality health insurance options that fit your needs.
• Retirement Options: Plan for your future with retirement benefits through the Virginia Retirement System.
• Employee Well-Being: Our Balanced Dukes program promotes wellness and work-life integration through resources, events, and support.
• Tuition Waiver Program: Advance your education with our tuition waiver program for undergraduate and graduate courses taken at JMU.

At JMU, we believe in Being the Change — and that starts with creating an environment where you can grow, contribute meaningfully, and feel supported every step of the way.

Discover what makes JMU a great place to work: bit.ly/JMUEmployment

General Information

James Madison University’s Facilities Management is accepting applications for an Irrigation Technician. The regular schedule is Monday – Friday, 6:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., with an altered summer schedule and overtime as required to cover special events and inclement weather.

This position is eligible for a $2,000 sign-on bonus. $1,000 will be paid out after completing six months in the position and the remaining $1,000 will be paid out after completing 12 months in the position.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Installs, repairs, troubleshoots, inspects, and performs preventive maintenance on and schedules all irrigation for the university.
• Keeps campus beautified by trimming and edging at the appropriate times and by properly and safely operating the equipment.
• Leads work of others that has been assigned and ensures work is performed in a safe manner.
• Operates safely and properly a variety of equipment including but not limited to: Dingo trenching equipment, riding mowers, tractors, sweepers for turf, seeders, fertilizer spreaders, aerators, deep-tine equipment, highly complex mowing equipment, and snow removal equipment to maintain attractive athletic fields.
• Uses pesticides safely as directed including proper application, storage, and or disposal.
• The employee is required to work all home football games.
• The employee in this position will be considered designated, meaning the work performed is essential to university operations and the employee will be required to work during periods of authorized closings.

Qualifications

Required:

• Working knowledge of landscaping practices and procedures.
• Knowledge and experience in the installation, repair, maintenance, and scheduling of turf irrigation.
• Knowledge of proper handling, storage, and disposal of pesticides.
• Must have knowledge of Sentinal irrigation controllers (or other irrigation control systems) and athletic field maintenance, or the ability to obtain.
• Ability to do physically demanding work for extended periods of time in a variety of environmental conditions.
• Ability to operate a variety of landscaping equipment such as large trucks, tractors, mowers, and snow removal equipment.
• Ability to recognize and identify turf problems and diseases or the ability to obtain.
• Must meet eligibility requirements to drive within 2 years of hire. Requirements are:

• 19 years of age.
• A valid Driver’s License, possession of a valid Driver’s License for a minimum of 24 consecutive months, and an acceptable motor vehicle report.

Additional Posting Information

Conditions of Employment

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check.

E-Verify Notice: After accepting employment, new hires are required to complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. James Madison University uses the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.

EEO Statement

James Madison University is committed to creating and supporting a diverse and inclusive work and educational community that is free of all forms of discrimination. This institution does not tolerate discrimination or harassment on the basis of age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, national origin, parental status, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or veteran status.

We promote access, inclusion and diversity for all students, faculty, staff, constituents and programs, believing that these qualities are foundational components of an outstanding education in keeping with our mission. The university is interested in candidates whose experience and qualifications support an ongoing commitment to this core quality.

Anyone having questions concerning discrimination should contact the Office for Equal Opportunity: [phone].

Reasonable Accommodation

If you are an individual with a disability and need assistance searching or applying for jobs please contact us at [phone] or [e-mail]. You may also visit the JMU Human Resource Office, located at 752 Ott Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22807 and we will be happy to assist you.