Irrigation Technician

Build

Grass is greener at other people’s feet because they watered it.

Israelmore Ayivor
Irrigation Technician

In A Nutshell

I install and maintain irrigation systems that help crops, plants, and soil get the right amount of water.

I work with people in agriculture, including farmers, horticulturists, and greenhouse operators, to set up efficient watering systems.

I repair and replace parts like valves and pipes, install timers, and make sure systems are ready for different seasons.

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Potential Salary Range

$38,000-60,000 Annually

Which provinces would this job be in?

Alberta AB
Alberta
British Columbia BC
British Columbia
Manitoba MB
Manitoba
New Brunswick NB
New Brunswick
Newfoundland & Labrador NL
Newfoundland & Labrador
Nova Scotia NS
Nova Scotia
Ontario ON
Ontario
Prince Edward Island PEI
Prince Edward Island
Quebec QC
Quebec
Saskwatchewan SK
Saskwatchewan

I visit farms, greenhouses, and other agricultural sites to assess water sources, land, and existing irrigation systems. I work with farmers, growers, and other agriculture professionals to design efficient setups, then return to the office to create a plan showing how water will reach the right areas.

Workplace

Indoor / Outdoor

Job Requirements & Duties

  • Assess soil moisture and plant health to determine irrigation needs across various agricultural settings
  • Plan and map irrigation layouts for fields, greenhouses, and other growing areas
  • Dig trenches and install irrigation pipes, lines, pumps, and electrical timers
  • Troubleshoot and repair irrigation system components to ensure proper function
  • Complete progress reports and maintain accurate paperwork related to installations and repairs
  • Monitor and adjust irrigation systems to promote water conservation and support healthy crop growth in changing weather conditions

Education & Training

  • A college diploma, bachelor’s degree, or trade certificate in fields like horticulture, water management, landscaping, or crop sciences can help prepare you for this job.
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Job Outlook

    While many farms are using water more carefully and sometimes irrigating less, the demand for skilled irrigation technicians remains steady as farms and greenhouses continue to install and maintain irrigation systems.

Related School Subjects

Ed. Prof. et Tech.
Science
Career Education

What words come to mind when thinking about this career?

Water Irrigation Crops

Important Skills

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Problem Solving

Every farm and greenhouse is different, so it’s my job to find the best irrigation solution for each customer’s unique needs.

Customer Service

I spend a lot of time working directly with farmers, growers, and other agricultural professionals, so being comfortable talking and listening to customers is important.

Mechanical

This hands-on job involves working with pumps, pipes, timers, and equipment, so enjoying practical, mechanical work is key.

Planning

Since the growing season is short, I have to plan my time carefully to help as many customers as possible when they need irrigation the most.

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The Best Things About This Job Are…

Pays Well
Independent Work
Opportunity to Travel
Flexible Work Environment
Problem Solving
Opportunities for Advancement & Promotion
Seasonality
Similar Careers
Nursery & Greenhouse Worker
Forestry Worker
Agronomist
Helpful Links
ALIS - Water and Wastewater Operator Occupation Profile
Alberta Irrigation
snapAG- Irrigation
snapAG- Water Management
Career Glossary
Proposal
Troubleshooting
References
Irrigation Specialist. (2020).
Irrigation Technician Must-Have Resume Skills and Keywords. (No Date).
Disclaimer

All career information has been gathered from a variety of sources and compiled to provide a general idea as to what each career could entail. Agriculture in the Classroom Canada is committed to doing our best to ensure the information is current and reliable. However, we will not be liable for the accuracy of the information. Please contact us if you notice errors or would like to provide feedback.