Grounds Specialist -Irrigation

Overview

The University of South Dakota, Facilities Management Department is seeking a qualified candidate for the position of Irrigation Technician to join our Grounds Team. The Irrigation Technician position mainly focuses on the maintenance and operations of USD’s automatic irrigation system across campus. This vast network of valves, wiring, and sprinklers helps keep campus vibrant and appealing during the growing season. The successful candidate will have previous experience in and on the job knowledge of underground irrigation system maintenance and operations including but not limited to: basic plumbing and water line repairs, electrical troubleshooting, irrigation well maintenance, irrigation operation scheduling, spring system startups, and end of year blow-outs.

This position also assists the Grounds Team by performing outdoor maintenance tasks such as mowing, string trimming, spraying weeds, picking up litter and debris, and snow removal operations. The position will also perform various office moves, moving of surplus property, and event setups as required to meet campus needs. The successful candidate will have skills such as teamwork, punctuality, attention to detail, self-starting initiative, and follow through.

This is a full-time, permanent position with the University of South Dakota and comes with the full package of state benefits.

Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

• Maintenance and operations of USD’s automatic irrigation system across campus (valves, wiring, sprinklers).
• Underground irrigation system maintenance and operations including basic plumbing and water line repairs, electrical troubleshooting, irrigation well maintenance, operation scheduling, spring startups, and year-end blow-outs.
• Perform outdoor maintenance tasks: mowing, string trimming, weed spraying, litter/debris removal, and snow removal.
• Assist with office moves, surplus property movement, and event setups as required.
• Demonstrate teamwork, punctuality, attention to detail, initiative, and reliable follow-through.

• Experience with irrigation system maintenance and operations.
• Valid Driver’s License (required);
  Pesticide Applicators license (if applicable, as indicated).
• Ability to work outdoors and perform physical tasks associated with landscape maintenance.
• Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.

Posting Date: 01/27/2026

Closing Date:
Open Until Filled

First Consideration Date: 02/10/2026

Advertised Salary: 22.66

Duration of the Term: 12 months

Appointment Type:
Regular

Work Hours:

Monday – Friday 7:30-4:00pm

Appointment Percent: 100

Scope of Search:
External (includes Internal)

Other:
Valid Driver’s License;
Pesticide applicators license (if required)

The mission of USD Facilities Management is to provide high quality, customer-centered services and facilities that support and promote the mission of the University of South Dakota.

Diversity and inclusiveness are values that are embraced and practiced at the University of South Dakota. Candidates who support these values are encouraged to apply.

USD is committed to fostering a dynamic and welcoming working and learning environment for all. USD provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to ideological, political, or sectarian opinions or perspectives; or race, color, creed, religion, sex, ancestry, disability, national origin or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. USD is committed to the principles of free expression and encourages the timely and rational discussion of topics in an environment that is intellectually and ideologically diverse.

Please check the appropriate response that describe the cognitive requirements for this position. Comprehend, Multiple Priorities, Pace-average, Reading, Reasoning, Verbal Communication, Written Communication

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