Conservation Field Investigator

Conservation Field Investigator

Salary

$48,672.00 - $83,512.00 Annually

Location

Headquarters: 2800 U.S. Hwy 281 N., San Antonio, TX

Job Type

Full Time

Job Number

2026-00259

Department

Public Affairs

Opening Date

09/18/2026

Closing Date

10/4/2026 11:59 PM Central

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Grade 17 - Starting hourly rate: $23.40 Rate of pay depends on qualifications.

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY

The Conservation Field Investigator serves as a primary point of contact for residential and commercial customers at their homes and businesses. The Conservation Field Investigator conducts irrigation consultations during which they evaluate irrigation system performance, identify sources of water inefficiencies, and recommend practical improvements. These consultations address high water bill concerns, resolve complex water use issues, help identify the source of leaks, and connect customers with applicable SAWS conservation programs and incentives.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Conducts irrigation/landscape water conservation audits of residential and commercial irrigation systems and landscapes. Identifies and assesses opportunities based on the customers unique situation to improve water use efficiency through landscape changes, irrigation management and available technologies.
• As a subject matter expert, educates commercial and residential customers about water efficient landscapes, appropriate landscape irrigation scheduling, and programs and technology available to customers to assist in landscape transformations that result in water conservation.
• May identify issues or conservation opportunities for customers for other water using equipment such as pools, water softeners, hot water tanks, and indoor plumbing.
• Compiles and analyzes data to resolve complex water use situations.
• Provides information to customers about SAWS Conservation programs.
• Recommends enforcement activity as required.
• Responds to difficult customer relations situations, involving upset and dissatisfied customers, takes action to resolve complaints where appropriate with sensitivity and good judgment.
• Writes articles, and scripts for videos they may appear in for GardenStyleSA.com or other SAWS related conservation materials.
• Represents SAWS and may make public presentations at community events, independently or with other SAWS staff.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

DECISION MAKING

• Works under limited supervision.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• High School Diploma or GED and three years experience performing conservation, landscape, irrigation or related field experience OR Bachelors Degree from an institution accredited by a recognized accrediting agency and 6 months of directly related experience.
• Valid Class "C" Texas Drivers License.
• TCEQ Irrigation Technician, Landscape Irrigator or Irrigation Inspector License within 12 months of hire.
• Ability to report to work on time, maintain a good attendance record, and work all designated work schedules.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bilingual in English/Spanish.
• Ability to communicate landscape conservation concepts verbally and in writing to the general public.
• Experience working with the general public on a customer service, volunteer educator or similar interactions.
• Landscape Irrigator License from the State of Texas.

JOB DIMENSIONS

• Knowledge of and ability to learn multiple database and software platforms.
• Ability to analyze data and draw conclusions from multiple data and information sources.
• Ability to establish and maintain contact with internal and external customers and the community at all levels.
• Ability to operate computers and other standard office equipment.
• Ability to tactfully and effectively handle sensitive customer relations situations and diffuse situations that are highly emotional and volatile.
• Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
• Ability to meet the required performance standards within the area of assignment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS

Physical requirements include lifting up to 50 lbs. occasionally and pushing a maximum force of 105 lbs. through situations such as turning valves on and off. Subject to standing, sitting, walking, climbing, bending, crawling, squatting, kneeling, and working in cramped and strained positions for long periods of time to perform job scope.

Working conditions are in a field environment with exposure to adverse weather and traffic conditions and other safety/health hazards. Operates a SAWS vehicle and equipment on a daily basis.

May be required to work hours other than regular daytime schedules such as weekends, shift work, overtime and on-call duty.

San Antonio Water System values the contributions of all its employees, providing them the best in compensation and benefits. The benefits package is designed to attract and retain a workforce of qualified employees who share a responsibility in providing quality water to 1 million consumers.

From an affordable medical and dental plan to life-sustaining retirement and insurance plans, we offer benefits that reward employees for their commitment to a challenging career at SAWS. Employee benefits include the following:

• Competitive, market-based salaries
• Performance-based incentives
• Medical benefits
• Dental benefits
• Life insurance
• Prescription drug program
• Vision care plan
• Two retirement plans
• Deferred compensation plans (457 plan)
• Disability income
• Paid leave (vacation, sick, personal)
• Education assistance program
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible, tax-deferred health and dependent care spending accounts
• Wellness programs
• On-Site Fitness Facilities
• Community service opportunities

Click on the link for additional information regarding benefits: SAWS Benefits

01

Please select one of the following descriptions that best identifies your level of education and experience for this position.

• I have a Bachelor's Degree or higher level of education from an institution accredited by a recognized accrediting agency. Plus six (6) months experience performing conservation, landscape, irrigation or related field experience.
• I have a High School Diploma or GED. Plus three (3) years' experience performing conservation, landscape, irrigation or related field experience.
• I do not meet the required education and experience for this position.

02

Do you have a valid Texas drivers license? If so, what type of drivers license do you have?

• Class C
• Class CDL - B
• Class CDL - A
• I do not have a valid drivers license.
• I have a valid drivers license from another state.

03

Do you possess the following TCEQ Irrigation Technician, Landscape Irrigator or Irrigation Inspector License?

• Yes, I have a TCEQ Irrigation Technician License
• Yes, I have a TCEQ Landscape Irrigator License
• Yes, I have a TCEQ Irrigation Inspector License
• No, I do not have any of the listed TCEQ licenses, but I understand that will need to obtain within 12 months of hire.

04

If you answered yes in question #3 above as to having one or all of the three (3) TCEQ Licenses, then please provide the license number and expiration date.

05

Please list any additional current licenses or certifications you may have related to irrigation, landscaping, horticulture, water conservation, or a closely related field to include license number and expiration date.

06

What interests you about water conservation in a municipal utility context and how does your education or professional experience prepare you for this work?

07

Describe your experience evaluating residential or commercial irrigation systems as outlined in your application and/or resume. How do you identify inefficiencies, equipment problems, or opportunities to reduce water use? If no experience, enter N/A.

08

Describe your knowledge of drought tolerant landscaping and native or well-adapted plants. How would you use this knowledge to help a customer develop a functional and water efficient landscape? If no knowledge of this information, enter N/A.

09

Describe any experience you have in conducting public presentations, participating in community outreach, or developing educational materials such as articles, videos, or webinars. If no experience, enter N/A.

10

Please describe your customer service experience, including the types of customers you have assisted, the responsibilities you performed, and how you handled difficult or sensitive customer situations. If no experience, enter N/A.

11

Are you bilingual in English/Spanish?

• No
• Yes

Required Question

Employer San Antonio Water System

Address 2800 U.S. Hwy. 281 N.

San Antonio, Texas, 78212

Website https://www.saws.org/career-opportunities/