Equipment Technician

About the role

The South Dakota State University (SDState) Facilities & Services Department is seeking a skilled mechanic to join the team. This position will offer support by maintaining and repairing a variety of construction, off-road, and building equipment. The equipment fleet includes everything from small engines and power equipment to lifts, loaders, generators, and air compressors that help support campus operations. This position is located in Brookings, South Dakota.

SDState is the state’s largest, most comprehensive university with over $84 million annual research expenditures, more than 200 academic programs and an enrollment of approximately 12,000 students. The university is part of a dynamic community for families, students, young professionals, and retirees, which offers an abundance of attractions and activities.

Facilities and Services is the internal department overseeing the growth, maintenance, repair and changes of the facilities, infrastructure and grounds of campus and satellite locations. Campus Maintenance staff has technical expertise in electrical, plumbing, HVAC, carpentry, welding, mechanics, building repair work, relocation, and grounds. Services include the operation, maintenance, repair and remodeling of university buildings and grounds and the operation and repair of certain types of equipment.

Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Responsibilities

• Perform skilled mechanic work on construction equipment, off-road equipment, and building equipment.
• Routine service work, repair and maintenance of engines, brake systems, hydraulic systems, cooling systems, drive lines, exhaust, heating and air conditioning systems, minor body repairs, generators, air compressors, etc.
• Equipment ranges from small engines such as chainsaws to large pieces such as JLG lifts and front-end loaders as well as building generators and air compressors.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Knowledge of:

• Detailed mechanical knowledge of various equipment including diesel, gas, small engines, including electrical, steering, suspension, brake, cooling/heating, powertrain, fuel, air and hydraulic systems.
• Diagnostic techniques for engines and equipment systems.
• Equipment maintenance and repair (i.e., automotive, loaders, skid loaders, tractors, telehandlers, UTVs, lawn and grounds care equipment, etc.).
• Math skills including fractions, percentages, and geometry.
• Building equipment maintenance and repair (i.e., standby generators, air compressors, etc.).

Skill & Ability to:

• Analyze mechanical issues by applying problem solving skills.
• Perform routine and in-depth repairs to a wide variety of equipment.
• Work safely with a variety of hand and power tools.
• Work in extreme temperatures and various locations including tunnels, rooftops, and agricultural sites.
• Communicate clearly and have good customer service skills.
• Respond to emergency/urgent issues after hours or on weekends.
• Work independently with minimal supervision as well as work as a team player with a positive attitude.
• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

Requirements

• Valid driver’s license is required.

Preferred Qualifications

• CDL class B with air brakes endorsement.
• Associates degree in Diesel and Automotive Technology (or similar).
• At least 5 years of professional on-the-job experience performing mechanical repairs and service.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and flexible benefits.
• Retirement plans with 6% matching.
• Paid holidays and vacation leave (10 hours of annual leave each month; 9.34 hours of sick leave each month; eleven paid holidays).
• Access to internal and state-sponsored training.
• Reduced tuition for state-supported courses at all State of South Dakota academic institutions.
• Relocation benefits available per university’s guidelines.