Conservation Assistant Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Irrigation Technician
Department: Golf
Reports To: Golf Course Superintendent 
FLSA Status: Non Exempt 
Effective Date: September 2025

White Oak conserves and sustains some of the earth's rarest wild animals through innovative training, research, education, and conservation breeding programs that contribute to the survival of wildlife in nature.  The conservation programs span 600 acres along the St. Mary’s River in northeast Florida, surrounded by 22,000 acres of mixed forest and wetlands that make up the beautiful White Oak property.  Founded in 1982, White Oak leads professional efforts to improve veterinary care, develop holistic animal management techniques, and better understand the biology of critically endangered species by providing excellent care and managing conservation programs for over 30 species of imperiled wildlife in large, naturalistic habitats. 

White Oak Mission:
Saving endangered wildlife and habitats through sustainable populations, expanding education initiatives, and responsible land stewardship.

Job Summary:

The Irrigation Technician plays a critical role in supporting the overall health, aesthetics, and environmental compliance of the golf course grounds. This position is responsible for the programming, record keeping, operation, maintenance and repair of the golf course irrigation system. 
The Irrigation Technician is required to report any irregularities in course turf quality.  Requires knowledge of in ground sprinkler systems.  

Essential Duties:
•    Conducts regular system inspections and performs trouble shooting exercises.
•    Adjusts/repairs the irrigation system, pipes and irrigation heads as needed.
•    Waters greens, tees, fairways and all other irrigated turfgrass.
•    Operates irrigation heads in dry areas needing additional water.
•    Compile and submit reports and records on the condition of all system issues-report immediately.
•    Completes requests for irrigation and course parts and supplies.
•    Inventory or parts, supplies and equipment of irrigation system.
•    Maintains irrigation pump stations.  Maintains accurate records of water use.
•    Occasionally supervises a small labor force for special projects and performs other duties as directed     by supervisor.
•    Installs new drip and sprinkler systems.
•    Sets and maintains times on computer and electronic valve clocks; troubleshoots computerized electronic systems, irrigation controllers, solenoid valves, and heads of all types.
•    May instruct others in minor irrigation repairs.
•    Operates tractors and trenchers to install/repair lines.
•    May assist in coordination with other departments or outside contractors.
•    Serves as a role model and sets a positive example for the entire staff.

The above-cited duties and responsibilities describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to the job.  They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that an incumbent may be expected or asked to perform.

Education and Work Experience Requirements:
•    High School Degree Required.
•    Minimum 3 years’ experience in irrigation or landscaping industry.
•    Experience using wire trackers and test meters.
•    Irrigation Certifications preferred.
•    Proficient in Microsoft Office and Turf Maintenance Platforms.
•    Knowledge of occupational hazard of the trade and of the proper use of safety equipment/practices.
•    Should be familiar with TDR & Pogo meters.

Physical Requirements, Hazards, and Special Working Conditions:
•    Must have valid Florida or Georgia drivers’ license.
•    Ability to safely lift and carry up to 50 lbs. and operate heavy machinery.
•    Ability to perform heavy manual labor under various weather conditions. 
•    Work is performed outdoors with frequent exposure to heat, humidity, rain, and other elements.
•    Must be able to walk long distances, stoop, kneel, bend, and stand for extended periods.
•    Requires visual acuity for equipment operation and chemical inspection.
•    Must be able to climb ladders, lift 50 pounds, and perform repetitive tasks involving hands and arms. Remove statement above.
•    May involve occasional work around moving equipment, noise, and chemical fumes (with PPE provided).
•    Working conditions include inadequate lighting, restricted movement, dirty environment, extreme temperatures, intense noise, hazardous materials, and lifting or carrying heavy objects.  
•    Requires the individual to maintain flexible availability, will work weekends, and holidays.  May be required to return to job site at odd hours under emergency situations.  

White Oak Conservation is committed to creating an environment where diverse perspectives are welcome, and to nurturing a culture where everyone feels valued and appreciated. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, race, color, age, national origin, religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, citizenship, pregnancy or maternity, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable national, federal, state, or local law.