Landscape & Irrigation Specialist

This is responsible and technical work primarily focused on irrigation system inspection, maintenance, and repair within the Parks and Recreation Department. This is a bargaining unit position.

Employees in this class perform responsible and technical work centered on the inspection, evaluation, and reporting of irrigation system performance and conditions. Work includes skilled and semi-skilled tasks involving irrigation system maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, and limited landscape support functions.

Responsibilities include assessing irrigation system efficiency, identifying deficiencies, and ensuring proper operation of system components such as valves, controllers, pumps, backflow prevention devices, and potable water connections. Employees regularly coordinate with contractors and vendors to address irrigation-related issues, verify work quality, and ensure compliance with department standards and specifications.

Work requires the application of independent judgment in diagnosing system issues, interpreting irrigation plans and specifications, and ensuring adherence to established practices and regulations. Employees are responsible for maintaining accurate records, reports, and documentation related to irrigation system inspections, maintenance activities, and contractor performance.

Under general supervision, employees receive assignments with work reviewed through observation, reports, and results achieved.

Inspects, evaluates, and tests irrigation systems to ensure proper operation, efficiency, and water conservation.

Conducts field reviews of irrigation work performed by contractors and staff.

Monitors and coordinates irrigation maintenance and repair activities.

Responds to complaints and service requests related to irrigation systems.

Reads and interprets irrigation plans, blueprints, and schematics.

Prepares oral and written reports.

Performs independent inspections of irrigation systems.

Performs limited landscape-related duties as required.

Considerable knowledge of: irrigation system design, operation, and maintenance; potable water systems; safety precautions.

Working knowledge of: sprinkler systems, irrigation controls, and basic electrical/plumbing systems.

Some knowledge of:  plant materials and basic horticulture.

Ability to:  inspect, diagnose, and repair irrigation systems; read plans; communicate effectively; prepare reports.

Skill in:   use of tools and computer software including Microsoft Word and Excel.

Outdoor work in varying weather; ability to lift up to 50 lbs.; frequent standing and walking.

Graduation from an accredited high School or vocational school and one (1) year of irrigation or plumbing (install, maintenance, repair) and/or related experience; or equivalent combination.

Possession of a valid Florida driver’s license required; a valid Florida Commercial driver’s license might be required.

Evaluation of education and experience. Drug testing is included in all pre-employment processing.

Employees may be required to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays and overtime as needed. During periods when the Mayor issues an emergency declaration for the City of Tampa, all employees may be required to work in preparation, response or recovery activities related to the stated emergency.