Apprentice Maintenance Mechanic UIS

The recruitment for this position includes several phases:

1. Prescreening Assessment: A computer-based test available at home or at a testing center near you. The deadline to complete this assessment is 10 days from now.
2. Physical Agilities Testing: Tentatively scheduled for August 11-13, 2026. For a demonstration of physical agilities activities, please visit this link.
3. Interview: Scheduled from August 19-28, 2026.

Tentative start date is set for October 5, 2026.

Current starting pay is $26.03/hour, based on the collective bargaining agreement (LIUNA). Upon successful completion of the 4-year program, apprentices will advance to the Journeyman level Maintenance Mechanic position at UIS with a rate of $39.96/hour, also according to the collective bargaining agreement.

Responsibilities

Under direct supervision, the Apprentice Maintenance Mechanic - Utility Installer Servicer will perform skilled craft work associated with operating heavy equipment and specialized equipment used in construction, maintenance, and preventive maintenance activities for public utilities projects. Specific responsibilities include:

• Operating equipment for construction, maintenance, and preventive maintenance activities for water and wastewater pipes and appurtenances.
• Performing finishing and grading operations.
• Operating trailers and tractors to transport heavy equipment.
• Checking operating and safety conditions of equipment, performing minor servicing, making minor mechanical repairs, and reporting needed repairs.
• Inspecting, installing, maintaining, and repairing utility lines and related system components (such as hydrants, meters, air release valves).
• Laying block and brick and performing finished cement work.
• Utilizing hand tools in performance of duties.
• Maintaining inventories of materials, tools, and equipment and ensuring they are in proper working order.
• Completing records, manually or via computer, such as daily vehicle checklists, work tickets, employee time sheets, requisitions, and maintaining equipment operations and service records.
• Verifying utility locations.
• Cleaning and maintaining equipment and grounds and facilities.
• Checking barricades and other safety devices for proper placement at job sites.
• Performing other job-related tasks as assigned.

Qualifications

• External Requirements:
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Pass the Physical Abilities Test representative of the job demands.
• Pass pre-employment examination and substance abuse testing.
• A valid driver's license is required prior to employment and must be maintained during employment in this classification.
• A valid Class A Commercial Driver's License must be obtained within 12 months of employment and must be maintained during employment in this classification.
• Successfully complete the JEA Permit Required Confined Space course during the Apprenticeship Program.
• Successfully complete the JEA Trenching and Shoring, Competent Person course during the Apprenticeship Program.
• Pass the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Water Distribution System Operator Level III exam and obtain that license during the Apprenticeship Program.
• A valid Class A Commercial Driver's License will be required prior to entering Level 2, Step 1 of the Apprenticeship Program and must be maintained during employment in this classification.