Irrigation Technician

James Madison University’s Facilities Management is accepting applications for an Irrigation Technician. The regular schedule is Monday – Friday, 6:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., with an altered summer schedule and overtime as required to cover special events and inclement weather.

About the role

At James Madison University (JMU), we’re more than just a publicly funded institution — we’re a vibrant, welcoming community nestled on a stunning campus where innovation, collaboration, and personal growth thrive. Our mission is to prepare students for a bright future, and we believe that starts with supporting the people who make it all possible: our employees.

Responsibilities

• Installs, repairs, troubleshoots, inspects, and performs preventive maintenance on and schedules all irrigation for the university.
• Keeps campus beautified by trimming and edging at the appropriate times and by properly and safely operating the equipment.
• Leads work of others that has been assigned and ensures work is performed in a safe manner.
• Operates safely and properly a variety of equipment including but not limited to: Dingo trenching equipment, riding mowers, tractors, sweepers for turf, seeders, fertilizer spreaders, aerators, deep-tine equipment, highly complex mowing equipment, and snow removal equipment to maintain attractive athletic fields.
• Uses pesticides safely as directed including proper application, storage, and or disposal.
• Required to work all home football games.
• Considered designated, meaning the work performed is essential to university operations and the employee will be required to work during periods of authorized closings.

Requirements

• Working knowledge of landscaping practices and procedures.
• Knowledge and experience in the installation, repair, maintenance, and scheduling of turf irrigation.
• Knowledge of proper handling, storage, and disposal of pesticides.
• Must have knowledge of Sentinal irrigation controllers (or other irrigation control systems) and athletic field maintenance, or the ability to obtain.
• Ability to do physically demanding work for extended periods of time in a variety of environmental conditions.
• Ability to operate a variety of landscaping equipment such as large trucks, tractors, mowers, and snow removal equipment.
• Ability to recognize and identify turf problems and diseases or the ability to obtain.
• Must meet eligibility requirements to drive within 2 years of hire: 19 years of age, a valid Driver’s License, possession of a valid Driver’s License for a minimum of 24 consecutive months, and an acceptable motor vehicle report.

Benefits

• Generous Leave: Enjoy paid vacation, sick leave, parental leave, community service leave, and 19 paid holidays annually.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Access high-quality health insurance options that fit your needs.
• Retirement Options: Plan for your future with retirement benefits through the Virginia Retirement System.
• Employee Well-Being: Our Balanced Dukes program promotes wellness and work-life integration through resources, events, and support.
• Tuition Waiver Program: Advance your education with our tuition waiver program for undergraduate and graduate courses taken at JMU.

Pay

$32,400 - $34,900

Schedule

Monday – Friday, 6:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., with an altered summer schedule and overtime as required to cover special events and inclement weather.

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check. After accepting employment, new hires are required to complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States.