Job Summary

Under the supervision of the Irrigation Technician 14, this position performs a variety of duties related to the maintenance, installation and operation of commercial irrigation systems. This position is required to take a working supervisory role in the daily operations of the irrigation program.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Records and coordinates backflow testing program processes, ensuring policy compliance as per Bylaw 7567.
• Assists with maintaining irrigation supplies inventory, ensuring adequate stock is available and notifying supervisors on what is required.
• Assists with technical testing of new technologies for irrigation pilot projects such as water conservation initiatives.  
• Assist with capital project final inspections for Final Acceptance Certificate including system testing, hydrostatic tests and sweep of overall irrigation system.
• Performs park irrigation locate requests.
• Performs irrigation central control box and field wire troubleshooting.
• Assists with the supervision and training of assigned staff through on site coaching, and technical mentorship.
• As required, audit irrigation system(s) in accordance with Irrigation Association guidelines.
• Supports and promotes the health and safety of employees and the general public in accordance with the Saskatchewan Employment Act, Saskatchewan Health Regulations and Standards, Occupational Health & Safety Regulations and the City of Saskatoon’s administrative Occupational Health & Safety policies and departmental procedures.  Maintains and monitors programs which affect public health and safety.
• Collaborates with other departments on various projects, and responds to request where irrigation is required.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education, Training and Experience Requirements:

• Grade 12 education.
• Successful completion of three turf management classes from a horticulture diploma program, e.g. Ontario Diploma of Horticulture.
• Successful completion of three courses from the Irrigation Association. One course specializing in field wire troubleshooting or landscape irrigation auditor.
• Possession of a valid cross-connection certificate.
• Three seasons' recent experience in commercial irrigation related to service and installation. Experience in supervising staff considered an asset.
• Possession of a valid Saskatchewan Class 5 Driver’s Licence.
• Current driver’s abstract from SGI demonstrating a safe driving record.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain, within one year after date of hire, a valid First Aid Certificate.

Knowledge, Abilities and Skills:

• Considerable knowledge of standard methods, materials and tools used in commercial irrigation systems, including identifying and eliminating cross-connection hazards, troubleshooting controllers, electric valves and field wiring.
• Knowledge of environmental factors(soil type, wind, temperature, precipitation and humidity) that impact park and open space irrigation requirements.  
• Knowledge of standard methods and materials related to the installation and service of irrigation systems.
• Demonstrated ability to use the tools and equipment of the irrigation industry.
• Ability to have basic computer skills including Microsoft Office, City email, database applications and Fusion.
• Ability to interpret irrigation blueprints.
• Ability to organize daily servicing and repair requests in an efficient manner.
• Ability to mentor and coach staff as well as work with minimal supervision.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the public and other civic employees.
• Ability to multi-task between priorities.
• Physical ability to perform the assigned duties.

Additional Requirements

• Shift work and weekend work are involved.
• Stand-by is mandatory for designated employees when operationally required. The employee must report to work immediately and be fit for duty