Main Lines

Term from Irrigation industry explained for recruiters

Main Lines are the primary pipes in an irrigation system that carry water from the water source to different areas of a field or property. Think of them like the main highways of water distribution - they're the largest pipes that branch out into smaller lines to water different zones. When someone mentions Main Lines in their resume, they're typically talking about installing, maintaining, or repairing these crucial components of irrigation systems. They might also be called "mainlines," "primary lines," or "irrigation mains."

Examples in Resumes

Installed over 5,000 feet of Main Lines for large-scale agricultural projects

Supervised maintenance and repair of Mainline systems across 12 commercial properties

Designed and implemented Main Line installations for golf course irrigation systems

Typical job title: "Irrigation Technicians"

Also try searching for:

Irrigation Specialist Irrigation System Installer Irrigation Maintenance Technician Landscape Irrigation Technician Agricultural Irrigation Specialist Irrigation Service Technician

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you approach designing a main line system for a large agricultural property?

Expected Answer: A senior technician should explain considering water source capacity, pressure requirements, soil types, terrain elevation, and future expansion needs. They should mention calculating proper pipe sizes and planning for isolation valves.

Q: What factors do you consider when troubleshooting main line failures?

Expected Answer: Should discuss systematic approach to identifying issues like pressure problems, leaks, or damage, understanding water hammer effects, and methods to minimize system downtime during repairs.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you ensure proper installation of main lines?

Expected Answer: Should explain proper trenching depth, bedding material, pipe alignment, thrust blocking at turns, and proper backfilling procedures to prevent future problems.

Q: What maintenance procedures do you follow for main lines?

Expected Answer: Should describe regular inspection routines, winterization processes, pressure testing, and preventive maintenance schedules.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic components of a main line system?

Expected Answer: Should be able to identify main pipes, valves, filters, pressure regulators, and basic fittings used in irrigation main lines.

Q: What safety procedures do you follow when working with main lines?

Expected Answer: Should mention proper trenching safety, utility location procedures, proper tool usage, and basic pressure safety measures.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic pipe fitting and installation
  • Understanding of irrigation system components
  • Simple repairs and maintenance
  • Basic tool operation

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Complex system installations
  • Troubleshooting and problem solving
  • Reading irrigation plans
  • Equipment operation

Senior (5+ years)

  • System design and planning
  • Project management
  • Team supervision
  • Advanced problem diagnosis

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic pipe sizing and pressure relationships
  • Lack of safety awareness in trenching and installation
  • Unable to read basic irrigation plans
  • No experience with different types of irrigation systems