IRRIGATION specialist

Water is a central component to the growth and development of any landscaped environment. Over time, the amount of water used on residential, commercial, and industrial properties can be massive; irrigation systems can provide efficient water management solutions for these properties. Irrigation specialists are water management professionals who are passionate about environmentalism and reducing water waste. Whether it is agricultural crops or the lawn of a homeowner, irrigation specialists focus on creating efficient and effective water management solutions for customers. Irrigation systems can help decrease water usage on a variety of properties, and as such, many irrigation specialists are able to put forth their passion for sustainability and environmentalism into their work.

Overall, irrigation specialists design, install, repair, and maintain irrigation systems on commercial, residential, public, and industrial properties. In recent years, new technologies have allowed irrigation systems to become more digital than ever, as applications and computerized controls allow irrigation specialists to monitor weather conditions, leaks, overflows, and shutdowns. It is important for irrigation specialists to stay up to date on the latest industry trends. Irrigation specialists are problem solving sustainability professionals who aren’t afraid to get wet.

WHAT ARE OTHER COMMON NAMES FOR AN IRRIGATION SPECIALIST?

IRRIGATION TECHNICIAN, IRRIGATION INSTALLER, IRRIGATION SYSTEM INSTALLER

What will you do?

Irrigation specialists play an important role in landscaping, horticulture, and grounds maintenance. In general, they:

Design and read blueprints in order to lay out or locate irrigation valves and wiring
Prepare the ground for the installation of irrigation lines and install pipes, wiring, and valves
Provide system recommendations that reduce water usage and fit the needs of the client
Develop efficient and cost-effective irrigation schedules that meet the clients’ needs
Understand and implement computerized irrigation systems including remote monitoring systems
Maintain and repair irrigation systems on commercial and residential properties
Manage budgets and provide cost estimates for clients

Where will you work?

Irrigation specialists are in demand across many industries. Irrigation specialists can be employed by:

What advancement opportunities are available?

Irrigation specialists can advance in their field by obtaining further education and on-the-job training while staying up to date on the latest best practices in irrigation systems and maintenance. With enough experience, irrigation specialists may advance to sales or management positions at irrigation firms, as well as landscaping and grounds maintenance companies. Some may also start their own companies or work as consultants.

Future employment prospects for irrigation specialists in Ontario are positive. In 2020, there were over 500 job postings for irrigation specialists and other landscape technicians across Ontario.

What can you expect to earn?

In Ontario, the median annual wage for an Irrigation Specialist is $39,520. Pending experience, responsibilities, location, hours of work, and qualifications an Irrigation Specialist can expect to make between $32,240 and $57,183.

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO BE A FOREPERSON IN LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION?

Work Context

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Work outdoors, exposed to weather

Spend time using your hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls

Interact with customers and clients

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Work Attributes

Dependability

Integrity

Attention to detail

Initiative

Adaptivity/flexibility

What education and certifications do I need to do this work?

HOW DO I BECOME AN IRRIGATION SPECIALIST?

Similar to other occupations in landscaping and horticulture, there is no singular path to becoming an irrigation specialist. In Ontario, some people will begin as landscape, grounds maintenance, or irrigation labourers and later acquire additional training and experiences to become an irrigation specialist. At some firms, an irrigation specialist can advance into a sales position if they show they have acquired sufficient knowledge and skills from working in the field. There are courses and certificates available for irrigation specialists to ensure they are trained on the proper techniques and applications of sustainable water use. Many irrigation firms look to hire new people who are interested in water management and environmental protection, regardless of their experience, so long as they are hard working and eager to learn.

HOW DO I BECOME A CERTIFIED IRRIGATION SPECIALIST?

Individuals looking to obtain certification for irrigation can do so through industry associations. For example, Landscape Ontario has a Water Smart Irrigation Professional program that provides contractors with the tools and knowledge to promote water-efficient irrigation practices to clients.

Programs and Apprenticeships

FOREPERSON

Algonquin College
· Horticulture Industries Diploma

1385 Woodroffe Avenue, Ottawa, ON K2G 1V8

FOREPERSON

Algonquin College
· Horticulture Technician Apprenticeship

1385 Woodroffe Avenue, Ottawa, ON K2G 1V8

FOREPERSON

Durham College
· Horticulture Technician Diploma

2000 Simcoe St N, Oshawa ON L1G 0C5

FOREPERSON

Fanshawe College
· Horticulture Technician Diploma

1001 Fanshawe College Blvd. London, ON N5Y 5R6

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