Who we are

Why Rensselaer? Our dynamic global community of changemakers includes some of the world’s leading researchers, students, alumni, and faculty who ask the important questions and devise the scientific and technological innovations that make the world a better place for all of humanity. Nestled on a beautiful 275-acre campus in upstate NY, Rensselaer is home to five schools, 32 research centers, three makerspaces, an observatory, and one of the world’s fastest supercomputers. 

Rensselaer faculty and alumni include more than 145 National Academy members, six members of the National Inventors Hall of Fame, six National Medal of Technology winners, five National Medal of Science winners, three astronauts, and a Nobel Prize winner in Physics. With nearly 200 years of experience advancing scientific and technological knowledge, Rensselaer remains focused on addressing global challenges with a spirit of ingenuity and collaboration. To learn more, please visit www.rpi.edu.

Are you ready to change the world? Apply now!

Job Summary

The Maintenance Mechanic/Plumber performs a wide range of repair and maintenance duties primarily related to plumbing equipment and systems. Performs maintenance and repair work on but not limited to utility infrastructure, building systems, steam heating systems, laboratories, exhaust fans, pumps, and air compressors. Participates in on-call rotation in accordance with standard operating procedures.

Minimum Qualifications

• HS diploma or equivalent
• Three (3) years of experience in plumbing and piping
• Valid US Driver’s license
• Must have the ability to be medically qualified for respirator use

Applicants must meet stated minimum education and experience requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Basic knowledge of plumbing trade, equipment, and tools
• Ability to read, write, and perform arithmetic functions
• Ability to read and troubleshoot from blueprints, drawings, and specifications
• Ability to use all hand tools and operate all power tools and equipment (i.e., pipe threader/cutters, band saw, power snakes, generators, compressors)
• Ability to operate a computer using standard office software
• Ability to work on ladders, scaffolding, and lifts
• Ability to work independently and as a team member
• Excellent customer service skills

Job Duties

• Plan and perform repair, maintenance and installation work (including insulation) supporting campus buildings, utilities and infrastructure including, but not limited to, plumbing heating, cooling, fire protection, storm sewer, water, and laboratory gas. Essential
  Repair and install steam-and condensate lines; support the operation of central steam plants. 
• Test and troubleshoot systems and equipment including assessment of problem and identification of repair options. Complete repair work; promptly call for assistance when necessary; follow-up to verify resolution of problems. 
• The Senior Maintenance Mechanic/Plumber performs a wide range of repair and maintenance duties primarily related to plumbing equipment and systems. Plans, coordinates, and directs crew when assignments are in the specialty area of plumbing and/or pipefitting. Performs maintenance and repair work on but not limited to utility infrastructure, building systems, steam heating systems, laboratories, exhaust fans, pumps, and air compressors. Participates in on-call rotation in accordance with standard operating procedures. 
• Assist Supervisor in maintaining inventory of parts and supplies by identifying non-stock parts and materials needed, including ID, quantity, and potential vendors. Order parts as assigned. 
• Utilize the CMMS data base to review and update equipment repair history and WO’s. Essential
  Maintain, repair and install equipment such as satellite boilers, furnaces, ventilation fans, air compressors, and pumps.

Shift

Non Standard Shift: On call rotation / One week every 6-8 weeks

Travel

Driving

Driving a Rensselaer vehicle for non-passenger use

Salary Range/Rate

Expected hiring range for Sr. Plumber:   $27.00-$29.79

Expected hiring range for Plumber:   $24.50-$26.46

In order to be considered for the Senior Maintenance Mechanic/Plumber position, candidates must have a minimum of six (6) years of progressively responsible experience, including at least three (3) years of industrial plumbing, steam fitting, and piping experience. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to plan, coordinate, and direct work in the specialty area of plumbing and/or pipefitting. 

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 an application. Please be ready to upload required documents, such as your resume and cover letter

If you need assistance with the online application process, please contact careers@rpi.edu 

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Total Compensation and Benefits Information

Rensselaer’s Total Compensation Program is designed to provide stable pay growth, a comprehensive and affordable benefits package, and a comprehensive and affordable retiree medical and prescription plan. Our goal is to provide you and your family with a comprehensive health and welfare program as an umbrella of financial security and protection during your employment. For more information, please visit Benefits | Human Resources (rpi.edu).