(Auraria) Pipe/Mechanical Trades II - Campus Irrigation Technician

State of Colorado•Denver, CO

4d•Onsite

About The Position

This position serves as the Irrigation Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the Auraria Campus and independently manages all irrigation-related operations, including system start-up and shut-down, emergency repairs, system monitoring, and performance optimization using web-based controls, approximately forty (40) controllers, and timers to operate nearly eight-hundred (800) control zones. The role performs advanced irrigation, plumbing, pipe-fitting, and low-voltage electrical control work to ensure efficient system operation, including oversight of campus well and well pump systems. In addition, this position supports and helps lead campus snow removal operations, including shoveling, salting, plowing, and clearing walkways and roadways. The position also serves as a lead worker for a small team of employees, providing training, mentorship, work direction, and performance-related feedback to management.

Requirements

Three (3) years of experience in grounds maintenance, irrigation systems, plumbing/pipe-mechanical trades, or related work, or a combination of related education and/or formalized apprenticeship training.
Must possess a valid unencumbered Colorado driver's license at the time of application.
Ability to stand for long periods of time as well as kneel, stoop, crouch, reach and grab in the performance of job-related duties.
Ability to exert up to 100 lbs. of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 lbs. of force frequently, and/or up to 20 lbs. of force constantly to move objects.
Willing and able to be exposed to adverse weather while performing snow removal duties.
Maintain a valid unencumbered driver's license.
Furnish a copy of the motor vehicle report (MVR) as part of the background check process.

Responsibilities

Independently performs advanced irrigation and pipe/mechanical trades work related to the campus irrigation system, including inspections, installations, repairs, and monitoring water flow across campus irrigation plumbing and piping systems.
Evaluates irrigation system performance, water flow, pressure, and sprinkler coverage to identify issues and implement corrective actions.
Adjusts irrigation schedules using digital controllers and web-based irrigation systems to support water conservation and efficient operations.
Diagnoses irrigation system failures and determines appropriate repair methods based on system conditions and operational needs.
Troubleshoots and repairs low-voltage electrical control systems associated with irrigation operations.
Evaluates well and pump system performance and implements operational or maintenance adjustments to maintain reliable irrigation service.
Provides training, guidance, and technical support to staff on irrigation operations, sprinkler repairs, and irrigation installation and maintenance best practices.
Serves as a lead worker for a small team of 2-3 Grounds I employees, providing technical guidance, mentorship, and training related to irrigation systems, plumbing repairs, equipment operation, and departmental standards.
Provides hands-on instruction and technical support on grounds equipment, hand tools, campus standards, and geographical area responsibilities.
Performs back-up grounds and irrigation work in assigned areas when staff are unavailable.
Reviews completed work to ensure compliance with operational standards, irrigation best practices, and department expectations.
Provides performance-related feedback and operational input to the Grounds and Vehicle Maintenance.
Monitors irrigation system performance and operational efficiency across campus grounds, including irrigation start-up, tuning, fertilizing, aerating, seeding, top dressing, mowing, and trimming.
Installs, repairs, and adjusts drip irrigation systems for trees and shrubs, and performs trimming of trees, shrubs, and flowers as needed.
Reviews irrigation system data, evaluates turf health and irrigation coverage, and implements necessary system adjustments and maintenance priorities.
Adjusts irrigation schedules and controller settings to support seasonal needs and water conservation efforts.
Identifies potential system failures and recommends repairs, upgrades, and operational improvements to enhance system reliability and efficiency.
Operates maintains, sets up, and cleans grounds and irrigation-related equipment and vehicles in support of campus operations.
Performs washing and cleaning of trash cans, patios, and entryways.
Assists with maintaining safe, functional, and well-maintained campus outdoor environments.
Provides field support for irrigation system operations, repairs, and seasonal maintenance activities.
Provides coverage as part of the campus Snow Removal Team, including support for snow and ice removal operations.
Stocks and maintains safety supplies and equipment for the Grounds Shop.
Provides personal safety training and equipment to crew members.
Leads and trains employees on snow removal procedures and other related special projects and tasks.