Pipe/Mechanical Trades I.

Colorado School of Mines (Mines) is an internationally preeminent teaching and research university dedicated to meeting the resource development needs of a rapidly evolving, technology-based society. Located in Golden, Colorado at the gateway of the Rocky Mountains, Mines offers a collaborative and supportive environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.

About the role

Facilities Management is seeking a motivated and mechanically inclined Pipe Mechanic Trades I to join our HVAC Service and Operations team. This position plays a critical role in maintaining the mechanical systems that support classrooms, research facilities, offices, and campus infrastructure. The role offers hands-on training, exposure to a wide variety of equipment, and opportunities for career advancement.

Responsibilities

• Preventative Maintenance (75%)
  • Perform routine HVAC and mechanical preventative maintenance activities, including:
    • Changing air filters and worn belts
    • Lubricating bearings and moving components
    • Cleaning drain pans, condensate drain lines, and pump housings
    • Cleaning coils and strainers
    • Verifying proper airflow and water flow through equipment
    • Adjusting motor and pump alignments
    • Performing minor repairs identified during inspections
    • Monitoring equipment condition and identifying abnormal vibrations, noise, or wear
    • Supporting campus water treatment programs, including testing and chemical handling
    • Maintaining clean mechanical rooms and equipment spaces
    • Accurately documenting maintenance activities, inspections, deficiencies, and repairs
• Predictive Maintenance (10%)
  • Assist with equipment condition monitoring activities, including:
    • Motor amperage testing
    • Temperature monitoring of motors and bearings
    • Vibration analysis
    • Refrigeration system performance checks, including superheat and subcooling measurements
    • Lubrication analysis
    • Recording and analyzing equipment trends to identify potential failures
• Proactive Maintenance (10%)
  • Support long-term equipment reliability through:
    • Root cause analysis of equipment failures
    • Identifying recurring maintenance issues
    • Evaluating equipment performance trends
    • Recommending corrective actions and preventative strategies
    • Communicating findings to supervisors and operations staff
    • Maintaining detailed records and maintenance histories
    • Participating in special assignments and departmental initiatives
• Reactive Maintenance (5%)
  • Assist operations personnel with equipment repairs, including:
    • Motor failures
    • Hot and cold comfort calls
    • Alarm response
    • Equipment resets
    • Glycol system issues
    • General maintenance and housekeeping activities

Requirements

• Two (2) years of relevant experience in an occupation related to the work assigned, which included:
  • Demonstrated mechanical aptitude
  • Ability to learn HVAC and mechanical systems maintenance procedures
  • Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and Windows applications
  • Ability to safely use hand and power tools
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Experience must be clearly documented in the "Work History" section of your application.
• Part-time work will be pro-rated.
• Combination of related education, formalized apprenticeship program, and/or relevant experience equal to two (2) years (transcripts must be attached for educational credit).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience performing preventative maintenance on HVAC or mechanical systems
• Knowledge of Air Handling Units (AHUs), Fan Coil Units (FCUs), exhaust fans, pumps, or related equipment
• Experience with facility maintenance, building operations, or trades work
• Familiarity with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS)
• Experience collecting and documenting maintenance data

Skills

• Technical Skills
  • Mechanical troubleshooting
  • Preventative maintenance practices
  • Equipment inspection and diagnostics
  • Basic HVAC system knowledge
  • Recordkeeping and documentation
• Professional Skills
  • Strong communication skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Customer service orientation
  • Adaptability
  • Problem-solving ability
  • Team collaboration

Work Environment

This position works in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments and may be exposed to:

• Mechanical rooms
• Utility spaces
• Construction and maintenance areas
• Varying temperatures and weather conditions
• Mechanical and electrical equipment

Work may require standing, walking, climbing ladders, lifting materials and tools, bending, reaching, and performing physically demanding tasks throughout the shift.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Generous vacation and sick leave plus 13 paid holidays
• State pension plan (PERA)
• Parental Leave
• Reduced cost tuition for employee and family members
• Life and Disability Insurance
• Professional growth and training opportunities
• Access to technology and equipment
• Colorado State Employee Assistance Program
• Access to a world-class recreation center
• Interaction with an international population and cultural events

Schedule

This position reports to campus Monday through Thursday, 5:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Conditions of Employment

• Background check
• Pre-employment physical
• Pre-employment drug screen
• Motor Vehicle Record check

Residency Requirement: This posting is only open to residents of the State of Colorado at the time of submitting your application.