Instrument Control Mechanic*

CONTEXT OF THE JOB:

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES: Under general supervision of the Manager or designee, performs skilled work at the journeyman level in the maintenance and repair of instrumentation and control systems. The position is a cross functional position that requires the mechanic to provide technical support for complex electronic, electric and pneumatic controls and instrumentation. The position requires interfacing with other crafts (boiler mechanics, HVAC mechanics, locksmiths, plumbers, etc.) to repair and/or install complex control/ instrumentation systems.

EXAMPLES OF WORK:
• Troubleshoots, repairs, fabricates, and/or installs electronic systems, complex gauges, instrumentation repairs, new parts including mechanical and electronic interfaces;
• Troubleshoots, repairs, adjusts, installs, programs, electronic, electric and pneumatic controls and instrumentation used to control and measure performance of: boilers; access to buildings; building automation systems; fire protection systems; material handling systems (elevators, etc.); time management systems; and energy measurement systems;
• Programs PLC (programmable logic control) and/or microprocessor based systems;
• Calibrates instruments for accuracy requiring fine tolerances; recalibrates any instruments or gauges that do not meet manufacturer’s performance specification;
• Rebuilds instruments when appropriate, including acquiring necessary parts and tools;
• Assists with data communication design and installations;
• Maintains time and material records; prepares work reports in accordance with standard operating procedures;
• Performs inspections and makes recommendations for system upgrades and renovations;
• Uses computer to access e-mail, receive work instructions and other administrative information to include electronic payroll forms;
• Communicates daily using a two-way radio and/or pager system in order to respond to work-related routine and emergency information;
• Ensures shop equipment is in proper working condition;
• Performs housekeeping duties to maintain a clean, uncluttered and safe work environment;
• Performs all other related duties as assigned.

ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS/OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURES:
• The primary physical environment requires the employee to work both inside and outside in both extreme heat and cold conditions, as well as conditions that are wet/humid, dry and during times when temperatures are below 32°F for more than one-hour periods.
• Employee must lift, tug, pull, and transport, with or without assistance, both small and heavy equipment and material, as necessary.
• The employee may be required to bend, squat, stretch and stand and/or work in cramped areas for prolonged periods of times while repairing equipment both at floor level, overhead, and/or in confined space areas.
• Environment may frequently include dust and/or airborne particles and occasionally loud noise, electricity/high voltage, chemicals, gases, fumes, and vibration. For this reason, employee is required to wear designated personal protective equipment to include, but not limited to, ANSI-approved safety eyewear, respirator, hardhats, gloves, hearing protection, full face shield, aprons and footwear to prevent exposures to hazardous materials, noise, dust and/or airborne particles. Specialized personal protective equipment may be required to make access to certain confined spaces.
• Must follow Occupational Health and Safety Open Flame procedures.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
• Must possess knowledge and skills necessary for the installation, troubleshooting, repair and preventive and applied maintenance for of all types of boiler, utility plant, systems alarms, and other electronic control systems.
• Must have working knowledge of standard practices, tools, materials and terminology concerning the use of testing equipment; knowledge of hazards and safety precautions; and mechanical ability.
• Ability to use hand and power tools; ability to perform preventive maintenance according to published guidelines.
• Ability to use meters and test equipment in the troubleshooting and repair of controls and systems alarms, and other electronic control systems.
• Ability to work from complex diagrams and drawings related to various controls and alarm systems, and other electronic control systems.
• Ability to understand and follow safety procedures.
• Ability to comprehend and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to interact well with people of all ages and diverse backgrounds.
• Thorough knowledge of U/D campus layout.
• Must be capable of working independently and prioritizing tasks in order to meet the needs of the unit and its customers.

REQUIRED MINIMUM TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:
• High school diploma, GED or equivalent. Associate’s degree from a post-secondary technical school in Electronics or Process Instrumentation and Control preferred. Minimum four (4) years’ experience in instrumentation, measurement and control, electronics, electrical and/or a mechanical program.
• Experience in industrial maintenance environment troubleshooting PLC software, I/O and field devices and working with mechanical, pneumatic, or hydraulic systems preferred.
• Certification as a journeyman in the instrumentation trade and ISA Certified Control Systems Technician (CSST) Program Level II preferred.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
• With or without assistance, must be able to exert 50 to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 25 to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or 10 to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects and job-related materials and/or equipment.
• Requires the ability to accurately discern colors.
• Ability to climb stairs, use ladders and aerial lifts, work from scaffolding and high areas using appropriate harness and tether equipment, and use ramps and aerial lift devices above ground.
• Must possess a valid motor vehicle operator’s license in order to drive University of Delaware vehicles to get to and from job sites.