Irrigation Technician

The University of North Florida Board of Trustees; Jacksonville (FL); On-site; USD 18,000 - 22,000; Part time

Job summary

The University of North Florida Board of Trustees seeks a Groundskeeper in Jacksonville, Florida, who will manage and maintain irrigation systems and perform various landscape maintenance tasks. The position requires a high school diploma and substantial relevant experience, emphasizing the importance of physical stamina and proficiency with equipment.

In addition to technical expertise, candidates should have strong communication skills and a valid Florida driver's license. The role may include responding to emergency situations and supports the university's commitment to an inclusive community.

Qualifications

• High school diploma and 3+ years of relevant experience.
• Experience in design, installation, and operation of irrigation systems preferred.
• Knowledge of plumbing codes related to irrigation systems.

Responsibilities

• Install and manage computerized irrigation systems.
• Operate and maintain existing irrigation systems.
• Coordinate with Grounds Foreperson on landscape projects.

Skills

Irrigation system management

Landscape maintenance

Communication skills

Physical stamina

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Computerized water management systems

Power landscaping equipment

Hand and power tools

Job description

Job Overview

Department: Physical Facilities, Grounds

Compensation: $18.67 Hourly

Primary Purpose

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. Performs work as a designated essential personnel member. Responsible for producing journey-level work output on an independent basis, subject to supervisory direction and review. Works independently and/or assists the irrigation crew and/or supervisor in keeping the campus irrigation systems in good working condition to ensure that the campus landscape is properly watered while working to improve water conservation on campus.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• Designs, installs, tests, and maintains new irrigation systems, backflow devices, and controllers.
• Monitors and operates the college-wide Maxicom System (computerized water management system).
• Replaces hardware as needed for this system (e.g., wires, valves, etc.).
• Operates special and/or heavy equipment and vehicles to perform the duties of an irrigation specialist and equipment operator.
• Assists in planning and construction of special campus projects on all campuses as assigned.
• Installs and maintains all irrigation backflow devices district-wide.
• Works with the Grounds Foreperson to plan and complete landscape projects at multiple sites.
• 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.
• Documents and maintains appropriate logs, records, and inventory of systems, such as blueprints using Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) software and geographical information systems (GIS).
• Recommends and assists in prioritization of upgrades and replacement of systems and equipment.
• Assists in budget preparation related to this work.
• Coordinates the college’s efforts under the City BES Sewer Credit Program to ensure that appropriate credits are received.
• Responds to work order requests and needs for assistance through various communication methods.
• Performs specialized tasks during adverse weather conditions and college closures.
• Serves as essential personnel for reopening the college in the event of unscheduled closures due to weather events and/or other circumstances.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Supplementary Responsibilities

• Assists in the collection of meter readings and other data for reporting to governmental agencies.
• Grounds maintenance when necessary.
• Assist with any other Physical Facilities responsibilities as requested by the supervisor.
• Designated as a Tier 2 respondent for designated campus emergencies and events; makes every effort to return to campus when directed.

Machines/Equipment Used Regularly

• Hand tools & power tools
• Electric carts/trucks/trucksters
• Riding/walk-behind mowers
• Power landscaping equipment
• Multimeters
• Ground fault detector
• Small farm tractors/implements
• Trencher

Supervision: Close supervision. The incumbent’s work is reviewed by the supervisor for accuracy and to ensure instructions are being followed.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma and 3+ years of relevant experience. Or an equivalent combination of education and experience pursuant to Fla. Stat. 112.219.
• Experience in design, installation, and operation of computer-controlled irrigation systems preferred.
• Experience and proficiency in performing landscape maintenance.
• Knowledge of 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 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.
• The job requires considerable and usually sustained physical effort; strength and agility for heavy lifting and knowledge of correct body dynamics.
• Ability to operate physically demanding equipment.
• 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.
• Acceptable driving record and a valid driver’s license for operation of a motor vehicle in the State of Florida.

Required Licensure

Maxicom operator certification within twelve months of employment.

Statement(s) of Understanding

This position requires a background check. In conjunction with the University’s policy, this position may also require a credit check. The holder of this position is designated as a “Responsible Employee” pursuant to their role under Title IX. Therefore, the incumbent must promptly report allegations of sexual misconduct, sexual violence, and child sexual abuse by or against any student, employee, contractor, or visitor to the University’s Title IX Administrator or any divisional Title IX Coordinator.

Equal Opportunity

The University of North Florida (UNF) is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all who interact in our community. In building this environment, we strive to attract students, faculty and staff from a variety of cultures, backgrounds and life experiences. The University of North Florida does not commit or permit discrimination or harassment on the basis of genetic information, race, color, religion, age, sex, disability, marital status, national origin, or veteran status in any educational, employment, social, recreational program or activity that it offers. In addition, UNF will not commit or permit retaliation against an individual who reports discrimination or harassment or an individual who cooperates in an investigation of an alleged violation of university regulation. Carnegie UNF is a Carnegie Community Engaged Institution. This designation celebrates the University’s collaboration with community partners from the local to the global level. It reflects UNF’s mission to contribute to the public good and prepare educated, engaged citizens.