Skilled Trades

Irrigation Technician

SOC 37-3012.00 · ESCO 6113 · OSCA 342431

Role snapshot

Overview

Installs, maintains, and repairs irrigation systems including sprinklers, drip lines, pumps, and controllers. This role involves assessing landscapes or agricultural areas, designing efficient watering solutions, and executing the physical installation and ongoing maintenance. Irrigation Technicians adjust watering schedules, troubleshoot faults, and ensure systems deliver water efficiently to crops or landscapes, often working with various types of terrain and weather conditions.

Ensures efficient water usage, conserving resources and reducing operational costs for landscapes, agricultural sites, and public spaces. Contributes to the health and vitality of plants and crops, preventing waste and promoting sustainability.

On the job

Install new irrigation systems, including piping, sprinkler heads, drip lines, and control panels.
Perform routine maintenance, inspections, and seasonal adjustments to existing irrigation systems.
Diagnose and repair system malfunctions, such as leaks, broken pipes, faulty valves, or electrical issues.
Program and adjust irrigation controllers to optimize watering schedules based on plant needs and weather conditions.
Conduct water audits and make recommendations for system upgrades or efficiency improvements.

Tools & technology

Pipe cutters and wrenchesTrenchers and shovelsMultimeters and wire locatorsBackflow testing kitsDiagnostic software for controllers

Average salary

$55K

MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD

$38K Bottom 10%

$75K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

Vocational training, certificate, or associate's degree in irrigation technology, horticulture, or a related field. Apprenticeships are also common.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Irrigation Supervisor

Water Management Specialist

CURRENT ROLE

Irrigation Technician

Skilled Trades

ADJACENT MOVES

Landscape Designer

Landscape Laborer

Maintenance Assistant

Plumbing Apprentice

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

realistic · RCI

People who enjoy hands-on work with tools and machinery, following technical specifications, and systematically troubleshooting problems are well-suited for this role.

Personality characteristics

Practical

Prefers working with tangible equipment and solving concrete problems rather than abstract concepts.

Thorough

Pays close attention to detail in installations, repairs, and adherence to specifications to ensure systems function correctly.

Independent

Comfortable working alone or with a small team, focusing on tasks without constant social interaction.

Cooperative

Works well with clients and team members, willing to follow instructions and contribute to a shared goal.

Calm under pressure

Maintains composure when troubleshooting complex issues or dealing with unexpected problems on site.

Systematic

Enjoys diagnosing problems by following logical steps and procedures to identify root causes.

Best for

Individuals who enjoy practical problem-solving and seeing the direct results of their work.
Those who appreciate a mix of technical precision and outdoor activity.
People who are reliable, detail-oriented, and committed to efficient resource management.

Watch out for

Physical demands can be high, requiring lifting, digging, and working in various weather conditions.
Requires continuous learning to keep up with new irrigation technologies and regulations.