Job Details

Irrigation Technician

The City of Medford is seeking a skilled Irrigation Technician to maintain and improve our citywide irrigation infrastructure. From repairing valves and sprinkler heads to programming smart irrigation controllers, you'll play a critical role in keeping over 900 acres of parks vibrant and efficient.

This is more than just maintenance. It's problem solving, system design, and hands on work with advanced tools and technology. You'll work independently, enjoy a consistent weekday schedule, and have opportunities to lead and mentor others. If you're ready to roll up your sleeves and make a lasting impact where people live, play, and connect, we'd love to hear from you.

Required Education and Experience:

• Graduation from high school or GED equivalent; and
• Five (5) years of progressively responsible municipal, commercial or industrial irrigation and installation experience.
• Bachelor's degree in horticulture, plant science, forestry, arboriculture, or agriculture, or other specific area of study as deemed applicable may substitute for two (2) years of experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor certification (CLIA)
• Familiarity with ESRI GIS mapping software
• Flagger and Forklift certifications
• Commercial Driver's License (CDL)

9/80 schedule: Monday to Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with every other Monday off (three day weekend every other week)

Compensation & Information on Benefits:

This position is part of the Teamsters Parks employee group.

The anticipated hiring range for the Parks Technician II - Irrigation position is $24.62 (first step) to $25.85 or $27.14 (second or third step). The City of Medford determines starting pay based on an evaluation of relevant education, experience, and qualifications as provided by the applicant in their application materials, alongside others who perform work of comparable character consistent with the Oregon Equal Pay Act. Six steps are included in this salary range, allowing opportunity for annual movement through the steps.

Benefits include: Medical, vision and dental benefits for employee and family, paid at 100% by the City with the opportunity to buy-up to a lower deductible plan; Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment insurance policy value of $50,000 paid by the City; Long-term disability insurance provided by the City; Health Reimbursement Account (HRA-VEBA) contributions provided by the City; Oregon Public Employee Retirement System (PERS) lifetime pension after retirement at no cost to employee; Deferred Compensation retirement plan (Section 457 Plan) for employee's retirement planning; Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; Employee Assistance Program (EAP); The City's Wellness Program promotes physical, social, emotional, intellectual, financial and environmental wellness with various goals and challenges to participate in throughout the year. Employees may qualify for wellness incentives by completing milestones set within the program up to $200 annually; Access to the City's fully equipped fitness center 24/7.

Examples of Job Duties:

• Monitors City wide irrigation systems and related utilities; oversees and manages the central computer software for all irrigation systems and makes programming adjustments as necessary for maximum efficiency.
• Oversees the maintenance and repair of backflow devices, irrigation controllers, electrical wiring, irrigation lines, valves, heads, pumps and all support systems, etc.
• Winterizes irrigation assets at end of season.
• Designs, creates and installs irrigation systems, and makes necessary modifications.
• Reviews, analyzes and processes blueprints and plans for irrigation systems.
• Operates a variety of heavy equipment including tractors, backhoes, Bobcats, dump trucks and trenching equipment, as well as portable power tools and automotive equipment, etc.
• Prepares, updates and reviews a variety of reports, work orders and spreadsheets.
• Recommends cost saving measures and strategies to improve operational efficiencies.
• Manages irrigation related supply, equipment and tool inventories.
• Adheres to safety practices and standards when performing all duties.
• Scope of assigned area will depend on departmental and/or citywide operational structure and is at the discretion of the Supervisor.

Other Functions of the Position:

• Performs maintenance and repair work to equipment, fixtures, and structures.
• Collects GIS data points in the field to aid in asset mapping.
• Upholds the values of the organization and has strong customer service orientation.
• Handles job stress and interacts effectively with others in the workplace.
• Fosters an environment that embraces diversity, integrity, trust, and respect.
• Is an integral team player, which involves flexibility, cooperation, and communication.
• Performs other related projects and duties as assigned.
• Demonstrates regular, reliable, and punctual attendance.

Competencies:

Drive/Energy - Effective performers have a high level of energy and the motivation to sustain it over time. They are ambitious and passionate about their role in the City. They have the stamina and endurance to handle the substantial workload present in today's organizations. They know that a healthy work/life balance is important to sustained energy. They are motivated to maintain a fast pace and continue to produce even in exhausting circumstances.

Functional/Technical Expertise - Effective performers are knowledgeable and skilled in a functional specialty. They add organizational value through unique expertise in a functional specialty area. They remain current in their area of expertise and serve as a resource in that area for the organization.

Organizing & Planning - Effective performers have strong organizing and planning skills that allow them to be highly productive and efficient. They manage their time wisely, and effectively prioritize multiple competing tasks. They plan, organize, and actively manage meetings for maximum productivity.

Problem Solving & Decision Making - Effective performers are able to identify problems, solve them, act decisively, and show good judgment. They isolate causes from symptoms, and compile information and alternatives to illuminate problems or issues. They involve others as appropriate and gather information from a variety of sources. They find a balance between studying the problem and solving it. They readily commit to action and make decisions that reflect sound judgment.

Results Orientation - Effective performers maintain appropriate focus on outcomes and accomplishments. They are motivated by achievement and persist until the goal is reached. They convey a sense of urgency to make things happen. They respect the need to balance short- and long-term goals. They are driven by a need for closure.

Work Environment & Physical Demands: This position involves working outdoors in a city park setting with exposure to a wide range of weather conditions, from extreme heat to freezing temperatures. There is potential exposure to heavy vibrations, loud noises, fumes, chemicals, dirt, and dust. Work may also be performed near heavily congested traffic areas, increasing potential safety risks. This position involves moderate to strenuous physical activity associated with landscape and facility maintenance. Employees must be able to lift and carry objects up to 75 pounds, and endure prolonged physical exertion, including walking, standing, and performing strenuous tasks under potentially adverse conditions (e.g., heat, cold, uneven terrain). The work requires utilizing full body strength and mobility, including pushing, pulling, bending, reaching, twisting, turning, and using lower back muscles for extended periods. Good manual dexterity and multi-limb coordination are essential for operating equipment and performing tasks. This position requires good eyesight, hearing, and stamina. Excellent sensory awareness is crucial for safety and effective task performance.