Plumber Technician

Position Summary

The Plumber Technician is responsible for performing skilled plumbing work to maintain, repair, and improve campus facilities. This position supports all academic, residential, and administrative buildings by responding to work orders and emergencies related to plumbing systems, fixtures, and natural gas equipment. The Plumber Technician will report directly to the Assistant Vice President for Facilities & Real Property Management and will work closely with him on troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, inspections, and campus-wide plumbing needs. Flexibility is required, as the position may assist with campus events, special activities, emergency responses, and other operational needs as requested.

Duties

• Respond promptly to work orders and service calls for plumbing issues across campus.
  • Clear clogged toilets, sinks, tubs, and floor drains; operate drain machines and augers.
  • Repair/replace toilets, urinals, faucets, sinks, shower valves, shower heads, mixing valves, traps, and supply lines.
  • Install and maintain high-efficiency/condensing hot water heaters, ensuring proper venting and safety.
  • Troubleshoot and repair above-ground water, sanitary, and vent piping systems.
  • Identify leaks or system failures and perform corrective actions within the scope of skill and code requirements.
• Aid in operating, inspecting, and maintaining natural gas piping and associated equipment serving boilers, heaters, and kitchen appliances.
  • Perform basic troubleshooting using leak detection tools, pressure checks, and equipment inspections.
  • Work directly with the Assistant Vice President to coordinate vendor support for complex gas repairs.
• Conduct routine inspections of building plumbing systems and fixtures in accordance with a preventive maintenance schedule.
  • Document findings, recommendations, and completed work within FMX (Facilities Management Express), the College's CMMS platform.
  • Assist in diagnosing problems related to underground water or gas utilities; support outsourcing when repairs exceed internal capabilities.
  • Ensure all work meets plumbing codes, safety regulations, and institutional standards.
• Support coordination of outside contractors for projects beyond in-house scope (e.g., underground utility leaks, major repairs).
  • Provide technical guidance, help prepare areas for vendor access, and assist with isolating systems.
  • Participate in post-repair walkthroughs and functionality checks to ensure contractor performance meets expectations.
• Interact professionally with faculty, staff, students, and visitors when handling service needs.
  • Clearly communicate timelines, impacts, and expectations when responding to plumbing issues.
  • Support campus events and special projects requiring temporary plumbing adjustments or infrastructure setup.
  • Aid in event setups as needed---including moving tables, chairs, and light equipment---to support campus functions and special activities.
  • Provide general facilities assistance during high-demand periods or emergencies.
• Follow all safety procedures, including PPE use, lockout/tagout, confined space protocols, and proper tool operation.
  • Immediately report unsafe conditions, gas odors, or water leaks to the Assistant Vice President.
• Collaborate with electricians, HVAC technicians, custodial staff, groundskeepers, and contractors to resolve multi-trade issues.
  • Participate in on-call rotations and respond to after-hours emergencies.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• 3--5 years of experience in commercial, institutional, or multi-building plumbing.
• Strong knowledge of plumbing systems, fixtures, tools, and relevant codes.
• Experience servicing high-efficiency/condensing hot water heaters.
• Working knowledge of natural gas systems and troubleshooting.
• Ability to read basic schematics, diagrams, and installation manuals.
• Ability to use plumbing tools, pipe threaders, soldering/brazing equipment, and leak detection devices.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Reliable, punctual, and able to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Journeyman or Master Plumber license (or ability to obtain within a set timeframe).
• Experience in higher education, hospitals, or similar institutional settings.
• Familiarity with FMX (Facilities Management Express) or similar CMMS tools.
• OSHA training or related safety certifications.