Irrigation Technician

Plumbers install, maintain, and repair water supply lines, drainage systems, gas lines, and related fixtures in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. The work involves reading blueprints and building codes, measuring and cutting pipes, assembling and installing pipes and fittings, testing systems for leaks using pressure gauges, and troubleshooting problems that range from simple clogs to complex system failures. Plumbers work in diverse environments—from new construction sites to century-old buildings with outdated systems—requiring them to adapt their approach to each unique situation. The job demands physical stamina for working in cramped spaces, excellent problem-solving abilities for diagnosing issues that aren't immediately visible, and strong customer service skills for explaining technical problems to homeowners. Many plumbers specialize in areas like gas fitting, medical gas systems, fire sprinklers, or green plumbing technologies.

Landscapers design, install, and maintain outdoor spaces including lawns, gardens, trees, and hardscape features for residential, commercial, and public properties. The work encompasses mowing and trimming, planting and transplanting, irrigation system installation and maintenance, mulching and fertilizing, pest and weed control, hardscape construction (patios, walkways, retaining walls), and seasonal services like leaf removal and snow clearing. Landscape designers create plans balancing aesthetics, functionality, environmental conditions, and client preferences. Maintenance crews execute ongoing care programs. The job involves physical labor in varying weather conditions, equipment operation, and knowledge of plants, soils, and regional growing conditions. Work ranges from routine maintenance accounts to custom design-build projects transforming properties. Client relationships often span years with recurring service visits.

Groundskeepers maintain the outdoor areas of commercial properties, educational campuses, parks, cemeteries, golf courses, and other facilities. The work involves mowing lawns, trimming shrubs and hedges, planting flowers and trees, applying fertilizers and pesticides, removing leaves and debris, maintaining walkways, operating landscaping equipment, and performing snow removal in winter climates. Advanced positions involve designing planting schemes, managing irrigation systems, and supervising landscaping crews. Golf course maintenance requires specialized knowledge of turfgrass management. Cemetery groundskeepers combine maintenance with sensitivity to families visiting graves. The role requires physical stamina for outdoor work in all weather conditions, operation of power equipment, and increasingly, understanding of sustainable landscaping practices. Many groundskeepers develop expertise in specific areas like athletic field maintenance or ornamental horticulture.