Maintenance Mechanic, Lead
Rensselaer Polytechnic InstituteAbout the role
Who we are
Why Rensselaer? Nestled on a beautiful 275-acre campus in upstate NY, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is home to five schools, 32 research centers, three makerspaces, an observatory, one of the world’s fastest supercomputers, and the IBM Quantum System One - the first university-based quantum computer in the world.
With top notch employee health and retirement benefits, Rensselaer offers its full-time employees a generous paid time off program, tuition remission, and opportunities for career growth.
Job Summary
The Lead Maintenance Mechanic plans, performs and oversees the work of a highly skilled team of industrial and institutional tradesmen performing a wide range of repair and maintenance duties. The Lead Maintenance Mechanic also performs the duties of shop Supervisor in the Supervisor’s absence. Participates in on-call rotation in accordance with standard operating procedures.
Minimum Qualifications
• HS Diploma or equivalent
• Seven (7) years of related and progressively more responsible experience in plumbing, steam fitting and piping trade.
• Ability to be medically qualified for respirator use.
Relevant combinations of education, training and experience may be considered.
Preferred Qualifications
• Welding of pipe and high-pressure piping / boiler• Valid US Driver’s license
Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Ability to lead and direct staff to ensure the completion of given tasks and projects.
• Ability to operate a personal computer (Outlook, job specific software).
• In-depth knowledge of plumbing trade, equipment and tools.
• Working knowledge of basic industry trades including, welding, roofing, electrical, metal work and carpentry.
• Ability to work in a team environment or perform independently.
• Ability to read, write, and perform arithmetic functions.
• Ability to follow blueprints, schematics and/or instructions
• Ability to use all hand tools and operate all power tools and equipment
• Ability to work on ladders, scaffolding and personnel lifts.
• Excellent customer service skills.
Job Duties
- Assign, instruct and oversee the daily activities of assigned staff; respond to questions from staff regarding standard operating procedures. Provide on-the-job training for assigned staff. Provide oversight to ensure quality work and to facilitate learning and growth.
- Work with supervisor to develop project plans, estimates and recommend staff assignments.
- Provide input to supervisor for performance evaluations. Completes personnel actions and payroll, leads and directs unit in supervisor’s absence.
- Keep the Supervisor informed of all business, problems, and achievements. May assist supervisor and respond to complaints and resolve customer and staff issues.
- Plan and perform repair, maintenance and installation work supporting campus buildings, utilities and infrastructure including, but not limited to plumbing, heating, cooling, fire protection, storm, sewer, water and laboratory gas systems.
- Perform preventive maintenance on all assigned equipment; develop pm procedures based on manufacturer’s recommendations and usage history.
- Troubleshoot basic and complex emergencies related to plumbing, roofing, heating, welding, and steam systems; complete repairs; follow-up to ensure identified needs are addressed.
- Maintain, repair and install equipment such as satellite boilers, furnaces, ventilation fans, air compressors, laboratory piping, gas systems, and pumps.
- Confirm completion of work orders and document status in CMMS system.
- Maintain inventory of needed supplies, replacement parts and maintenance materials.
Shift
Business Hours with weekends or evenings occasionally required
Driving
Non-passenger driving between campus locations
Starting Salary/Rate
Expected hiring range: $35.00 - $38.00 per hour
Pay transparency disclosure: The selected candidate’s salary will be determined based on factors that include the available budget, internal equity, and the final candidate’s qualifications, experience, education and other job-related credentials. This hiring range is provided as Rensselaer’s good faith estimate of the expected hiring range at the time of posting.
Application instructions
Follow the on-screen prompts to create a brief online profile. Please be ready to upload your resume and cover letter.
If you need assistance with the online application process, please contact careers@rpi.edu.
Job Posted DateApplications will be accepted until the position is filled.
T
Apply for this role
Generate a tailored application kit with a matched cover letter, interview prep, and CV highlights — in under 60 seconds.
Apply Now →Generate Application KitFree account required — sign up in 30s