Trade Spotlight: Inground Sprinkler Installer
When it comes to keeping lawns green and gardens thriving, there’s a hidden crew doing the heavy lifting underground — the inground sprinkler installers. These tradespeople lay the groundwork (literally) for perfectly watered yards, parks, and commercial landscapes.
If you’re looking for steady work with a mix of outdoor muscle and tech know-how, becoming an inground sprinkler installer might just be your next solid move.
🛠️ Training: How Do You Get Started?
No fancy degree is needed here, but there is a learning curve.
Most sprinkler installers start with:
On-the-job training: Entry-level workers usually apprentice with landscaping or irrigation companies, learning the ropes on everything from digging trenches to pipe fitting.
Technical classes or certifications: Many pros get certified through programs like the Irrigation Association’s Certified Irrigation Technician (CIT) or take vocational courses that teach you about system design, hydraulics, and troubleshooting.
OSHA safety training: Working with trenching, excavation, and electrical components means knowing your safety standards inside and out.
If you want to step up into system design or business ownership, advanced training in CAD software, water management, and irrigation control technology can be game changers.
🔧 Skill Development: What You’ll Actually Do
This is a physically demanding trade that also requires sharp attention to detail and problem-solving skills:
Reading blueprints and site plans: You’ll need to understand the layout and requirements before the digging starts.
Trenching and pipe installation: Operating machinery and hand tools to install piping underground.
System assembly and wiring: Connecting valves, controllers, and sensors.
Testing and troubleshooting: Making sure everything runs right and fixing leaks or pressure issues.
Customer communication: You’ll often be the face of the company on the jobsite, so good people skills matter.
💵 Income: What’s the Pay Like?
Pay for sprinkler installers varies by experience, location, and company size, but here’s a general idea:
Entry-Level Installer $14–$18/ hour $29,000–$37,000/year
Experienced Technician $18–$25/hour $37,000–$52,000/year
Crew Leader / Foreman $22–$30/hour $46,000–$62,000+/year
Certified Irrigation Designer $25–$35+/hour $52,000–$72,000+/year
Owner-Operator Varies from $60,000–$100,000+
Bonus: Many companies offer seasonal work, but steady irrigation jobs tend to run year-round in mild climates.
✅ Is This Trade Right for You?
You like working outdoors and don’t mind getting your hands dirty.
You want a trade that combines physical work with tech and problem solving.
You’re safety-conscious and detail-oriented.
You want a career with clear paths to growth—from fieldwork to design to owning your own business.
🔥 The Blue Collar Boyfriend’s Take
Inground sprinkler installation is a solid trade that keeps homes and landscapes healthy and looking good year-round. It’s hands-on, steady work with room to grow, especially if you’re willing to get certified and sharpen your technical skills.
If you’re ready to dig in and build a career that waters the roots of your community, this trade is worth a look.
