Operator Irrigation

Operator IrrigationJOB TITLE: Operator Irrigation FLSA STATUS: NON-EXEMPTPAY GRADE: AUX 5 DUTY DAYS: 260 DATE REVISED: 11/12/2025 HCFUNDING THIS POSITION IS LOCALLY FUNDED.MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: A high school diploma or equivalent is required. Two (2) years of related experience is required. Experience in groundskeeping, landscape maintenance and irrigation is preferred. A current Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Irrigation Technician license Certification is required within the first 6 months of hire. Demonstrated knowledge of water conservation practice is required. A valid Texas Driver's License is required, and it must be in possession at all times when operating an Austin ISD vehicle. Work is performed across Austin with extensive travel to AISD schools and properties is required. This position may require irregular, evening, or weekend assignments to address leaks and irrigation issues expediently.SKILL REQUIREMENTS: This position requires a thorough working knowledge of irrigation systems, and the tools and equipment used for the job. Incumbent must be able to connect a landscape irrigation system to a water supply, including installing a backflow prevention device; and may maintain, alter, repair, service, or direct the installation of an irrigation system under the supervision of a licensed irrigator. Incumbent must be able to test water pressure and run systems to diagnose issues, set controllers and inspect irrigation systems, make repairs and perform routine preventative maintenance on systems to flush valves, weatherize, and clear nozzles. Understanding of rain collection systems to provide routine maintenance and repair on pipes, tanks, and valves is preferred.JOB PURPOSE AND RESPONSIBILITY: The Irrigation Operator is responsible for the installation, maintenance, repair, and inspection of irrigation systems across Austin ISD facilities, such as drip, sprinkler, soaker, bubbler, cisterns, and reclaimed water irrigation systems. This position ensures that district grounds are properly irrigated for health, safety, and appearance, while supporting water conservation practices and compliance with district, city, and state regulations. The incumbent will perform preventive maintenance, troubleshoot irrigation system issues, coordinate with grounds/maintenance/energy & water conservation staff, and provide best practices in the field.ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:Install, trouble shooting and testing irrigation system components, including controllers, valves, pumps, backflow preventers, and sprinkler heads.Use best water conservation practices.Operate hand tools, power tools, and specialized irrigation equipment safely.Work independently and collaboratively with grounds crews, Energy & Water conservation staff, and other departments.Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting, bending, digging, and carrying equipment.Receive, prioritize, and complete work orders.Inspect jobs upon completion and ensure areas are clean.Perform preventive maintenance on tools and equipment and ensure equipment is in safe operating condition.Follow established safety procedures and techniques to perform job duties including lifting and climbing. Operate tools and equipment according to established safety procedures.Correct unsafe conditions in the work area and promptly report any conditions that are not immediately correctable to the supervisor.Promote and practice intentional sustainability measures in the daily job responsibilities including but not limited to energy and water conservation, waste reduction, recycling, and composting in an effort to be a responsible steward of our environment and conserve District costs.Provide an exceptional customer experience for all AISD stakeholders with intentional and professional practices that promote a culture of respect.OTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED: Perform other related duties as assigned; however, all employees are expected to comply with lawful directives in rare situations driven by need where a team effort is required.PHYSICAL EFFORT AND WORK ENVIRONMENT: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. This position may involve rare exposure to blood or body fluids. Regular attendance for this position is required.Tools/Equipment Used: Tools and equipment including pipe bender, PVC glue, cutters and crimpers, hand tools, power tools, occasional heavy equipment including forklift, trencher, jackhammer, backhoe; light truck or vanPosture: Frequent standing, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting; work in tiring and uncomfortable positionsMotion: Frequent walking, climbing stairs/ladders/scaffolding, grasping/squeezing, wrist flexion/extension, and overhead reaching; frequent drivingLifting: Occasional heavy lifting and carrying (45 pounds and over).Environment: Work outside and inside, on slippery or uneven walking surfaces; frequent exposure to extreme hot and cold temperatures, dust, toxic chemicals and fumes, noise, vibration, and electrical hazards; work around gas lines; work around machinery with moving parts; may work in tight or enclosed spaces; may work alone; occasional prolonged hours; frequent districtwide travel.Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stressPERSONAL WORK RELATIONSHIPS: This position reports directly to the appropriate supervisor of the department. Incumbent will collaborate as needed with relevant AISD departments.The Austin Independent School District provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.I have read & acknowledged the job description above.Employee Signature: Date: