Catch Basin
A catch basin is an important drainage feature in landscaping that collects water from rain or irrigation to prevent flooding and water damage. Think of it as a underground collection box with a grate on top that you often see in driveways, gardens, or yard low points. When landscapers mention catch basins in their experience, they're talking about installing or maintaining these drainage systems that help manage water flow in outdoor spaces. Similar terms you might see include storm drain, drain box, or yard drain. These all refer to systems that help control where water goes during rainfall or when irrigating gardens and lawns.
Examples in Resumes
Installed Catch Basin systems in over 50 residential properties to resolve drainage issues
Maintained and cleaned Catch Basins and Storm Drains for commercial properties
Designed and implemented Catch Basin drainage solutions for sloped landscapes
Typical job title: "Landscape Drainage Specialists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Landscape Drainage Specialists
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you plan a large-scale drainage system for a commercial property?
Expected Answer: A senior candidate should explain how they assess the property's grade, calculate water flow rates, determine catch basin placement, and coordinate with other landscape features. They should mention permit requirements and working with local codes.
Q: What factors do you consider when designing a catch basin system?
Expected Answer: They should discuss soil types, slope calculations, rainfall patterns, property size, and connecting to existing storm water systems. Should also mention maintenance access and long-term durability considerations.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you maintain catch basins to ensure they work properly?
Expected Answer: Should describe regular cleaning schedules, checking for debris accumulation, inspecting grates and boxes for damage, and ensuring proper water flow. Should mention seasonal maintenance needs.
Q: What are common problems with catch basins and how do you fix them?
Expected Answer: Should be able to discuss clogging issues, cracking, settling problems, and solutions for each. Should explain when repair versus replacement is needed.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What safety measures do you take when working with catch basins?
Expected Answer: Should mention proper lifting techniques, wearing safety gear, checking for underground utilities before digging, and following confined space safety procedures if applicable.
Q: What basic tools are needed for catch basin installation?
Expected Answer: Should list common tools like shovels, levels, measuring tape, and basic drainage installation equipment. Should understand proper use of each tool.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic catch basin installation
- Simple maintenance and cleaning
- Understanding of water flow basics
- Use of basic landscaping tools
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex drainage system installation
- Problem diagnosis and repair
- Reading drainage plans
- Equipment operation
Senior (5+ years)
- System design and planning
- Project management
- Code compliance knowledge
- Team supervision
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic water flow principles
- Unfamiliar with safety procedures for excavation
- Lack of experience with drainage system maintenance
- Unable to read basic landscape plans
- No understanding of local building codes related to drainage
Related Terms
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