IRRIGATION HELPER in San Antonio, Texas at San Antonio Botanical Garden

ABOUT THE SAN ANTONIO BOTANICAL GARDEN

For nearly 45 years, the San Antonio Botanical Garden (SABG) has been enriching lives through plants and nature. The Garden is a world class garden recognized for outstanding horticulture displays, botanical diversity, education, conservation, and experiences that connect people to the natural world. The San Antonio Botanical Garden embraces the sense of place that makes San Antonio unique and features thirty-eight acres of nature space located deep in the heart of San Antonio, has welcomed more than 400,000 visitors, and has over 13,000 member households. For more information, visit sabot.org

SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBILITIES

Under the direction of the Irrigation Specialist, the Helper will be responsible for testing and inspecting irrigation systems in facilities, conducting required maintenance of the irrigation systems and installation of irrigation systems. This position will require communication and teamwork, in addition to independent work in assigned areas. Typical work schedules are either Sunday-Thursday or Tuesday-Saturday, 7:00am-3:30pm; however this may change due to workload.

COMPETENCIES/SKILLS

Specifically, the Irrigation Helper will have responsibility for the following activities:

• Obtain information on existing site conditions and source of water.

• Maintain irrigation system, considering water supply, static water pressure, working water pressure, precipitation rate and existing or planned improvements.

• Maintain water mains, cast iron and PVC pipes and hydraulic systems.

• Repair or replace inner parts of irrigation heads and valves.

• Inspect non-potable water piping for irrigation and potable water piping for new and old buildings (drinking fountains, restrooms, etc.) as necessary.

• Adjust irrigation controllers seasonally or as needed per SAWS guidelines.

• Assist and advise plumbers and contractors regarding irrigation installation regulations.

• Investigate and recommend corrective action for defective irrigation systems.

• Perform other duties to assist Facilities Assistant in the maintenance of all buildings and grounds (This may include basic carpentry, electrical, HVAC, housekeeping and mechanics).

The Irrigation Helper installs, maintains, operates, repairs, troubleshoots underground irrigations systems as well as completes irrigation audits. The Helper will also conduct inventory of tools, equipment, or materials related to ensure that sufficient supplies are available, and items are in usable condition. This position will be responsible for the entire Botanical Garden in both public and non-public areas to meet or exceed the San Antonio Botanical Garden's standards for horticulture excellence.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: High School Diploma or general education degree (GED)

• Experience: Two (2) years of increasingly responsible experience in irrigation construction, inspection and repair.

• Must possess or be able to obtain, within thirty days of employment, a valid class "C" Texas driver's license. NOTE: Retention of position contingent upon obtaining and maintaining required license.

• Must be able to lift 50 lbs., climb a ladder, bend, kneel, and squat.

• Must be able to successfully pass a criminal background check.

• Equipment used for this job is (but not limited to) hand tools, power tools, skid steer, backhoe, roto hammer drills, multifunction irrigation tester, wire and valve locator, continuity testers, station master tester.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of all irrigation products (Rainbird, Hunter) and hydraulics principles.

• Knowledge of sizing pipe materials.

• Knowledge of basic backflow principles.

• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.

• Ability to read and understand irrigation blueprints.

• Ability to modify irrigation systems.

• Ability to perform all the physical requirements of the position.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions with exposure to damp/wet surfaces, hazardous materials, flammable liquids, and dust.

• Work is most frequently performed outdoors, but may be performed in greenhouses, maintenance facilities or grounds of the Botanical Garden.

• Expected to perform under minimum supervision and act independently within the scope of normal duties and responsibilities. Difficult or unique situations are referred to the Facilities Manager.

• Work will be performed in areas with frequent high levels of visitation, always requiring excellent customer service and professionalism while balancing the need for productivity.

• On occasion required to work extended hours.

Compensation: Compensation will be commensurate with the qualifications and experience of the individual.

Job descriptions are guidelines that attempt to characterize major duties and responsibilities of employees and are subject to change as needs and programs change. At the San Antonio Botanical Garden, they are considered neither inclusive nor exclusive.

The San Antonio Botanical Garden is an Equal Opportunity Employer