From Apprentice to Crew Leader: Your Irrigation Career Starts Here
Location: Onalaska, WI
Industry: Irrigation Services
Company: Phillips Outdoor Services
We are hiring for an Irrigation Install Apprentice to join our growing team in Onalaska, WI.
This is an entry-level position where you’ll gain hands-on experience in residential and commercial irrigation installation, maintenance, and repair while learning from experienced crew leaders. Previous irrigation experience is preferred but not required.
As a first-year apprentice, you’ll also cross-train in all divisions when needed. This role is ideal for those who thrive on variety, are eager to learn new skills, and enjoy supporting their teammates and the business objectives.
After completing your first year gaining experience across all divisions, apprentices may have the opportunity to transition into a more permanent role aligned with their skill set, like irrigation, while following a long-term growth path within the organization.
This role offers up to $25/hour and up to a $1,000 sign-on bonus, profit sharing, and comprehensive benefits.
Purpose
Support irrigation installation crews by learning and performing fundamental tasks, developing technical skills under crew leader mentorship, and contributing to safe, quality irrigation system installations.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with trenching, pipe laying, valve installation, sprinkler head placement, system testing, and seasonal system maintenance.
- Complete structured training modules covering irrigation safety, equipment operation, and installation techniques
- Operate jobsite tools and machinery safely and proficiently
- Maintain clean and organized jobsites based on company standards
- Shadow experienced irrigation technicians and progressively install mainlines, laterals, valves, and controllers
- Participate in scheduled training sessions and performance reviews with assigned mentor
- Document learning progress in designated tracking systems
- Communicate effectively with team members, crew leaders, and project managers
Required Qualifications
- Ability to perform physical labor including lifting 50+ lbs, digging, kneeling, and standing for extended periods
- Strong safety awareness and commitment to protocols, especially around trenching and utilities
- Reliable attendance and punctuality
- Positive attitude and willingness to master irrigation system installation and troubleshooting
- Team-oriented with ability to take direction
- Prior irrigation, plumbing, or construction experience preferred but not required
Training & Development
- Structured training combining online learning, workshops, and on-the-job experience
- Skill assessments at 30, 60, 90 days, then quarterly
- Assigned mentor providing coaching and growth opportunities
- Clear advancement path toward irrigation crew lead roles and certification opportunities
Reporting Structure
Reports to Irrigation Crew Leader with regular mentor check-ins
Compensation & Benefits
- Base Pay:Up to $25/hour based on experience
- Sign-on Bonus:Up to $1,000
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Up to 4 weeks paid time off (PTO) annually
- Profit sharing program
- Ongoing professional development
- Award-winning company culture
- Strong community reputation
Work Environment
Outdoor jobsites in various weather conditions. PPE required per safety guidelines.
Get Your Career Started Today
To get your career started, apply online; or download, print, and complete a paper application form and drop it off at our office during our business hours.
