Utilities Distribution Specialist

Job Description Reporting to the Utilities Distribution Supervisor and working in a multi‑discipline environment, this specialist role installs, maintains, and repairs critical infrastructure such as chilled water lines, steam lines, valves, traps, domestic water, storm drains, sewer lines, pumps, fans, and fire hydrants with a high degree of accuracy. The specialist performs steamfitter work at a specialized and skilled level and is responsible for a large utility distribution system that includes steam tunnels across the Virginia Tech Blacksburg campus. This position will proactively diagnose utility distribution system problems and perform repairs as required. The Utilities Distribution Specialist is responsible for layout of piping systems and pipefitting in compliance with applicable codes and construction documents, and is expected to serve as backup for the Utilities Distribution Lead as needed. The incumbent performs general service work on mechanical equipment, including maintenance, lubrication, and replacement of system components. Responsibilities Assisting with troubleshooting, repair, maintenance, and installation of steam lines, chilled water lines, and instruments. Performing installations or replacements of water, storm, sanitary sewer, steam, and heating hot water, condensate, chilled water piping systems, and related equipment. Working around both high (12.47 kV) and low voltage ( Reading and interpreting construction documents and shop drawings. Promoting responsibility and efficient work among team members by giving clear and descriptive instructions. Developing knowledge of materials and equipment used on projects for various utility systems. Working individually or on a team to execute repairs or installations. Operating heavy equipment such as excavators, backhoes, trenchers, line/service trucks, fork trucks, horizontal boring machines, and other related equipment for utilities system installation and maintenance. Required Qualifications Working skill in the use of diverse hand and power tools pertaining to the plumbing trade, including pipe threading machines, torches, drills, rotary hammers, and sewer cleaners. Must have a Commercial Driver’s License with Class B endorsements and a valid DOT medical certification. Ability to safely and frequently move and handle heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds alone, or up to an estimated 100 pounds with assistance. Ability to maneuver materials up and down stairs, climb and work from elevated workstations such as ladders and scaffolds, work for long periods standing, walking, sitting, reaching, bending, and pushing/pulling. Ability to safely work in designated confined spaces (training provided) and work in all types of weather conditions, including extreme temperatures. Designated emergency personnel position; may be required to work additional hours/shifts to meet the needs of the university. Demonstrated general construction experience. Familiarity with operating heavy equipment. General knowledge of using a computer for basic functions such as using Microsoft Outlook. Preferred Qualifications Experience at the journeyman level in general plumbing. Demonstrated experience in steam fitting. Previous experience in industrial, commercial, or institutional building plumbing, and piping installation and maintenance. Experience with operating equipment such as backhoes, mini‑excavators, and forklifts. Considerable knowledge of steam distribution systems. Experience with commercial/industrial distributions. Experience reading and interpreting written instructions, blueprints, and schematic drawings. Some experience or knowledge of handling utility locate requests. Familiarity with working around low and high‑voltage areas to maintain and repair mechanical utilities systems. Experience in a multi‑trade, multi‑disciplined environment. Safety training includes but is not limited to chain saw safety, confined space entry, electrical qualified person, excavation qualified person, fall hazard awareness, fall protection, first aid/CPR/AED, hazcom RTK, hearing conservation, ladder safety, lockout/tagout, mobile crane safety, personal protective equipment training, portable fire extinguisher training, scaffold awareness, VDOT flagger training and certification, and VDOT work zone basic safety training. Additional Information This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future sponsorship. This position has been designated by the university as essential to university operations. As emergency personnel, you will be required to report to work during emergency situations and authorized closings. The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check. Salary $52,000‑$54,000; commensurate with experience Work Hours 40 hours per week Holidays and Overtime Non‑Exempt: Eligible for overtime Pay Band: 3 Equal Employment Opportunity Statement Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law. Accommodations for Applicants with Disabilities Contact Facilities HR at opshr‑View email address on click.appcast.io at least ten business days prior to the event. #J-18808-Ljbffr