What Does an Irrigation Specialist Do?

An irrigation specialist works with all types of irrigation systems. He or she may be expected to install or troubleshoot a system, or analyze a need. While a college degree opens more doors for opportunity, jobs are also secured based on past work experience. The work environment for irrigation specialists can include golf courses, ranches, farms, subdivisions, and amusement parks. Computerized underground systems are also part of the industry.

Line inspections are an important part of an irrigation specialist's job. Determining whether valves, lines, and sprinkler heads are in good repair can cut costs by saving water and providing adequate irrigation to plants. Removing and replacing outdated equipment also fall under the irrigation specialist's list of duties.

Before lines are installed, an irrigation specialist can help map a system's route. Determining the best placement of a system helps ensure proper irrigation of the landscape. Once the map is completed, the specialist installs it. In some cases, he or she also supervises a team of landscape or irrigation workers.

For large-scale irrigation needs, most companies require the irrigation specialist to have a bachelor's degree. Campus-wide systems, underground irrigation on a golf course, and systems for amusement parks are examples of large scale irrigation needs. Computerized systems also typically require applicants to have college degrees. When working on smaller systems, such as small farms, individual yards, or small subdivisions, the irrigation specialist may get the job based on past work experience and references.

Due to the irrigation system dovetailing with the overall landscape, an irrigation specialist is expected to understand landscape design and maintenance. In addition, a general knowledge of electricity, carpentry, and plumbing is also useful. Various installation techniques should also be studied.

The ability to read blueprints is an expected skill set of the irrigation specialist. Communication with customers, landscapers, and others is also part of the job. Irrigation specialists use their mathematical skills to map irrigation routes, and for part ordering and figuring out pipe flows. In addition, friction loss, spacing, and run times all require a basic grasp of math.