CENTRAL PLANT REPAIRER

The posting is intended to describe the general content and requirements of this position and is not intended to be an exhaustive statement of duties.

Position Summary

The Central Plant Repairer is responsible for reading, understanding, and interpreting blueprints, drawings, floor plans, schedules, and manufacturer's specifications related to electrical, mechanical, plumbing, HVAC, and special equipment, building structures, and finishes. This role assists other crafts in performing maintenance, repair, modification, replacement, and installation on chiller and refrigeration units, electrical and mechanical components, and supporting equipment located in the Central Plant buildings and other outlying facilities on campus.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform routine operations and preventive maintenance on chiller and refrigeration units, plumbing components, and supporting equipment.
• Assist other crafts in preventive maintenance, repairs, modifications, replacements, and installations on electronic, direct digital, and pneumatic controls and devices for chillers, chiller components, refrigeration units, and supporting equipment.
• Inspect motor windings and test amperage draws.
• Change oil in gearboxes, purge compressors, etc.
• Lubricate electric motors, compressors, pumps, cooling towers, and other equipment.
• Pressure test chillers, piping, and connections for leaks.
• Inspect and replace gears, bearings, missing fasteners, etc.
• Prepare equipment for annual inspections.
• Clean and recondition exterior equipment surfaces, purge drums, oil sumps and separators, float valves, cooling tower louvers, etc.
• Perform housekeeping and painting tasks in the Central Plant and mechanical equipment rooms.
• Assisting the Chiller Mechanic, monitor oil, and lubricant levels, adding or replacing when necessary.
• Assist the Chiller Mechanic in adding or replacing refrigerant.
• Lubricate fan and pump shaft bearings.
• Monitor and inspect for proper operation and record results.
• Carry out additional duties as assigned to support facility operations.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent required.
• 3 years of relevant experience.
• Experience in HVAC required.

The driving record should meet University underwriting guidelines to drive vehicles in performance of university business. Current underwriting guidelines include possession a valid driver's license, issued in the United States; at least 21 years of age; at least three years of driving experience; maintain an acceptable Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities (KSAs)

Technical Proficiency

• Familiarity with mechanical systems including steam, chilled water, compressed air, and HVAC.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications.
• Basic mechanical aptitude.
• Knowledge of trades mechanics, refrigeration, plumbing, and electrical/electronics.

Safety & Compliance

• Knowledge of confined space entry procedures and safety standards.
• Ability to work safely and comply with safety regulations.

Problem Solving & Critical Thinking

• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to diagnose and resolve complex system issues.

Technology & Tools

• Proficient with personal computers and maintenance software.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite and digital work order systems.
• Proficiency in using tools and technology relevant to the role.

Communication & Collaboration

• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal and conflict resolution abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Organizational & Leadership Abilities

• Strong organizational and prioritization skills.
• Ability to lead or mentor junior staff and collaborate across trades.
• Experience with process improvement and quality assurance.

Project & Time Management

• Capable of managing multiple tasks and responding to emergencies.
• Basic project management skills for coordinating installations and repairs.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry a minimum of 50 pounds.
• Ability to climb stairs, ladders, and scaffolding, and work at heights above thirty (30) feet.
• Ability to perform tasks requiring bending, stooping, kneeling, climbing, and walking significant distances between and within buildings on campus.
• Ability to work within extreme temperature and humidity ranges with a variety of materials.
• Ability to work in confined spaces.

Compensation and Benefits

• Starting pay range: $19.80 - $25.75 (commensurate with experience and qualifications).
• OT Pay: 0~10 Hours OT/Week is expected. May exceed 10 Hours/Week under extraordinary conditions.
• Benefits include multiple health care plan options, dental, vision, pre-tax flexible spending account, health savings account, participation in the RSA Pension plan, 403(b) and 457(b) retirement savings plans, accident insurance, identity theft protection, pet benefits, life/AD&D & disability insurance, UAB Employee Wellness, employee assistance and counseling, vacation, sick leave, 9 paid holidays/year, 3 personal holidays/year, educational assistance for employees and families.

Work Schedule

• 7:00am-3:30pm Monday-Friday plus OT as required.
• Must be able to work a flexible work schedule, including on-call.
• This position may require overtime, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as operational needs dictate. (subject to change to meet the needs of the University).

For full consideration, please apply, resume and cover letter by the posted deadline. The submitted documents should highlight qualifications and experience relevant to the position as described in the posting. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

For more information about UAB Facilities, please visit: www.uab.edu/facilities.