Lead Water Distribution and Collection Specialist

About the role

The Lead Water Distribution and Collection Specialist performs the full range of skilled, journey-level plumbing work involved in the installation, maintenance, modification, inspection, and repair of mechanical plumbing systems and fixtures related to water, gas, oil, steam, sewage, fire prevention, and refrigeration systems. The position provides lead work direction to skilled, semi-skilled, and unskilled workers in the plumbing trade and ensures work meets safety, compliance, and operational standards.

Responsibilities

• Provide lead work direction to skilled, semi-skilled, and unskilled staff in plumbing and water distribution operations; assign, monitor, and inspect work for compliance with codes, standards, and safety requirements.
• Perform the full range of skilled plumbing work, including installation, modification, repair, and maintenance of mechanical plumbing systems for water, gas, oil, steam, condensate, sewage, fire prevention, and refrigeration.
• Lead and perform maintenance, testing, and repair of potable and recycled water systems; monitor, test, and chemically treat water to maintain compliance with health and safety standards.
• Conduct backflow device testing, recordkeeping, and maintenance; perform recycled and potable water cross-connection testing and corrective actions per regulatory standards.
• Perform routine inspections, troubleshoot plumbing systems, and complete repairs to ensure reliability and water quality.
• Estimate cost, labor, and materials; coordinate with other trades and contractors to ensure efficient and compliant project execution.
• Follow established safety procedures, maintain required certifications, and ensure adherence to Cal/OSHA, state plumbing codes, and university safety policies.
• Maintain detailed maintenance and testing records, document as-built changes, and prepare standard reports using computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).
• Communicate effectively with campus constituents to address plumbing service needs and ensure timely resolution of issues.

Requirements

One to two years of experience as a journey-level plumber that included work coordination responsibilities.

Possession of a valid California Driver’s License and driving record that allows for the operation of any vehicle or equipment required for the position.

Qualifications

• Thorough knowledge of the methods, materials, tools, and equipment used in the plumbing trade and water distribution systems.
• Working knowledge of effective supervisory and work coordination practices.
• Thorough understanding of applicable state and federal health and safety codes, including California State Plumbing Code and Division of Industrial Safety orders.
• Ability to lead, instruct, and coordinate the work of a small crew.
• Skill in estimating time, materials, and labor for plumbing projects.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills with the ability to analyze and respond appropriately to emergency situations.
• Proficiency with computerized maintenance management and building automation systems.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to foster a positive, respectful, and customer-focused work environment.
• Commitment to workplace safety, sustainability, and continuous improvement.

Skills

• Operating and maintaining a variety of hand and power tools, testing instruments, and water treatment equipment.
• Leading, instructing, and coordinating the work of a small crew.
• Reading, interpreting, and working from blueprints, plans, and specifications.
• Using computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) to maintain detailed maintenance and testing records.
• Communicating effectively with campus constituents to address plumbing service needs and ensure timely resolution of issues.

Benefits

Compensation Classification: Lead Plumber Anticipated Hiring Range: $7,551/month - $8,014/month (Step 7 – Step 10) CSU Salary Range: $ 6,705/month - $ 9,768/month (Step 1 – Step 20)

San José State University offers employees a comprehensive benefits package typically worth 30-35% of your base salary. For more information on programs available, please see the Employee Benefits Summary.