Lead Irrigation Technician

Kansas State University is seeking a skilled and motivated Lead Irrigation Technician to join our Grounds & Landscape Services team. This position plays a critical role in the operation, maintenance, and improvement of campus-wide irrigation systems. The ideal candidate will have experience with both conventional and advanced irrigation technology, possess strong troubleshooting skills, and provide leadership and support to team members in the field.

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  Irrigation System Maintenance:
  Perform routine inspections, maintenance, and repairs on campus-wide irrigation systems and backflow preventers to ensure efficient, reliable operation.

  
  
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  Seasonal Start-Up & Winterization:
  Manage seasonal system activations and shutdowns, including coordinating winterization efforts and documenting system performance.

  
  
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  System Installation & Upgrades:
  Install and modernize irrigation systems, including piping, valves, controllers, flow sensors, and backflows, in line with university standards.

  
  
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  Troubleshooting & Diagnostics:
  Use specialized tools to identify and fix plumbing and electrical issues in 2-wire and conventional systems. Program both manual and WeatherTRAK centralized controllers.

  
  
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  Project & Contractor Collaboration:
  Work with construction teams and university project managers to protect existing irrigation infrastructure and oversee compliant new installations.

  
  
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  Team Leadership:
  Guide and mentor entry-level technicians and student workers. Ensure safe work practices and help manage daily jobsite operations.

  
  
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  Inventory & Purchasing:
  Order parts, track inventory, and help control costs by keeping tools and materials organized and within budget.

  
  
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  Support for Grounds Maintenance:
  Assist with general landscape care-including mowing, planting, trimming, snow removal-and operate light equipment as needed.

  
  

The Division of Facilities is an action-oriented service organization within the K-State family. We plan, budget, build, operate, maintain, clean, supply and transport. We are custodians, landscapers, carpenters, plumbers, electricians, mechanics, project managers, engineers, architects, accountants, and administrative professionals - all stewards and leaders of an inspiring campus shared by many.

We wholeheartedly embrace the K-State traditions of excellence, integrity and professionalism, and we are enthusiastic champions of K-State's visionary goal to become a Top 50 Public Research University by 2025.

This position is on-site.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Requires a high school diploma and four years of relevant experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Skill in use and operations of tools, machines and equipment commonly used in plumbing and electrical work at the skilled craft level.
• 18 months experience in performing irrigation work and institution grounds experience.
• Familiarity with campus operations, landscaping design, and contractor coordination.

Other Requirements:

• Back flow Certification must be completed within the first year of employment.
• 1-3 years of experience in irrigation system installation and maintenance.
• Strong plumbing and electrical skills related to irrigation systems.
• Valid driver's license and ability to operate KSU vehicles and trailers.

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.

Please submit the following documents:

1) Resume

2) Contact information for three (3) professional references

Immediately and continues until position is filled.

Hourly $18.04 - 23.00