Maintenance Mechanic 3

Central Washington University is recruiting a Maintenance Mechanic 3 to join our Grounds Maintenance and Shop team in Ellensburg, Washington. This role is an important member of our team as they enhance the vision for the University. The role is a campus-based position, which means you get to see the lives you are impacting. We're offering a competitive salary plus the awesome CWU benefits.

Who we are:

We are a team of individuals committed to Changing Students' Lives. No matter what job, each of us plays a part in supporting and empowering our students to fulfill their dreams.

Working in higher education provides career growth and career choice. Think of a university campus like a mini city, operating across 380 acres. You'll find diverse academics, libraries, athletics and sporting events, full service and quick serve dining, conferences and events from small to large, recreation centers, housing, health services, police and public safety for the campus population of ~8,300 students.

Central Washington University has been named a Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program Top Producing Institution for the 2022-2023 academic year. In addition, for seven out of eight years, CWU was a recipient of the prestigious Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. RentCafe has also named CWU #13 of the Top 20 Best College Towns in the U.S. in 2025.

Come join us on our journey to encourage, inspire, and create spaces where all identities thrive on campus.

Tour our campus in Ellensburg here.

What we offer:

Our investment in you begins the day you join our team, a healthy and successful future for you is important to us. We offer medical, dental, life and disability insurance, retirement and optional savings plans, tuition assistance for you and your dependents, discounts across town, an employee assistance program for individualized counseling, and a wellness incentive program. Learn more: Benefits, Perks, and Leave and Total Rewards Calculator .

The Role:

The Maintenance Mechanic 3 is responsible to lead, train, assign, and inspect the work of multi-trade subordinate staff and performs all grounds activities to maintain the campus landscape. Grounds activities include, but not limited to: vegetation management, tree, shrub and turf care; installation of new landscape and/or renovation projects; irrigation systems, service drive and parking lot maintenance; snow and ice removal; the operation and general maintenance of equipment (including heavy equipment) used during grounds maintenance operations. Coordinates with other tradesmen on projects for timely completion considering project requirements and priority. Assists in project reporting, estimating and material procurement. Work is performed professionally and efficiently, incorporating both personal integrity and mutual respect.

All employees are expected to uphold and contribute to CWU's vision, mission, and values, fostering a culture of student success and institutional excellence. Facilities and Skilled Trades employees directly affect the vision, mission, and values of Central Washington University by contributing to a sustainable campus environment and by supporting and creating spaces where students, faculty, and staff feel welcome, safe, and comfortable.


Job Duties



Perform all grounds activities to maintain the campus landscape; this includes but not limited to:

- Lead and perform installation and maintenance of manual, automatic and computer-controlled campus irrigation systems. Install, adjust, repair, and replace irrigation systems and components, including manual and central computer-controlled systems, clocks, valves, pipes, pumps, rotors, and fittings.
- Coordinate irrigation schedules with FMD staff and other University departments. Operate and schedule controllers/timers.
- Maintain various campus irrigation pumping plants. Coordinate the operation of irrigation pumping and filtration systems.
- Read irrigation and landscape design drawings, make recommendations for improvements and replacement of systems and equipment based on those drawings. Assist in keeping drawings and maps up-to-date.
- Responsible for seasonal start-up and winterization of irrigation systems and components.
- Lead and coordinate schedule of heavy equipment operation assignments for grounds maintenance. Coordinate with other trades related to utility digs and construction needs. Perform irrigation related locates and digs.
- Assist trades or crafts in maintenance and construction such as repairing and installing sanitary storm drains and sewers, building and repairing parking lots and sidewalks, removal of asphalt, concrete, and construction debris, installing light bases and protection bollards.
- Operate and maintain motorized equipment such as automobiles, trucks, dump trucks, forklifts, tractors and front-end loaders, backhoe, grader, street cleaning equipment, lawn sweepers, trailers, trenchers, turf renovation equipment, aerial lift devices, woodchippers and snow removal equipment.
- Operate forklift to move benches, sandbags, parking rails, lumber, pipe, and other materials.
- Operate power tools and equipment such as electric and gas engine-driven compressors, pneumatic tamper, jackhammer, and portable pumps.
- Inspect and document storm water systems. Clean catch basins, storm sewers, roofs, and gutters. Install, repair, and replace campus signs, banners, and fencing. Build forms for walkways and planting areas. Install sandbags in flooding situations. Establish walkways or temporary bridges to cover flooded areas.
- Perform general landscape and gardening tasks such as raking leaves, mowing lawns, laying sod, install mulch/bark, setting irrigation pipe and sprinklers, planting trees and other vegetative material using and maintaining a variety of tools and equipment appropriate to the task and assigned work. This may include rakes, pruning shears, hand-edges, loppers, shovels, wheelbarrows, pesticide sprayers, lawn mowers and lawn sweeper.
- Use aerial lifts to prune and remove trees. Use power saws to trim, shape and remove dead and diseased trees and shrubs.
- Work on the construction of new/renovated landscape projects including the planting of trees and shrubs, hydro seeding large turf areas. Install concrete landscape blocks and pavers and the conversion of raw areas into lawns including rough and fine grading.
- Screen and organize construction spoils and composting materials. Water, turn, and screen compost materials to create topsoil.
- Perform soil modifications and improvement operations including tilling, application of fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides.
- Operate and maintain large capacity mowers to maintain unimproved areas. Operate turf renovation equipment to top dress, aerify, over-seed and edge.
- Remove debris/litter, leaves, brush, snow, and ice from areas such as walkways, stairs, ramps, roads, and parking facilities using hand tools or specialty equipment. Apply ice-melt, sand, and gravel.
- Operate Tool Cat, turf sweeper, magnet, groomer, sprayer, blowers, shop vacuum, and hand rakes to maintain synthetic turf. Use turf pusher to remove snow from synthetic fields.
- Set-up, tear-down and clean for special events using safe standards for synthetic turf. With the assistance of staff team members, safely and efficiently setup and take-down goal posts for all sports and events

Lead Duties:

- Effectively communicate and maintain positive working relations with faculty, staff, students, and the campus community as well as Facilities Management Department (FMD) management team.
- Perform work in a manner that provides excellent service with nominal to no inconvenience or disruption for the client. Perform quality work that meets or exceeds the expectation and satisfaction of the client.
- Perform work using Best Practices while maintaining compliance with applicable laws, policies, and procedures to provide a safe workplace.
- Provide training.
- Lead and instruct multi-trade personnel performing various grounds maintenance activities.
- Assign and inspect work assignments for completion; ensure departmental standards and deadlines are met; report status and condition to supervisors. Provide feedback to supervisor to assist with work assignments and job performance. Review time keeping and work order entries for accuracy.
- Work in cooperation with operations and maintenance staff, city and county employees, construction, engineering and inspection staff for capital construction and repair projects and contractors performing work on the CWU campus.
- Evaluate the performance of student/temporary assistants.
- Instruct assigned personnel in the proper use of equipment and safety practices while maintaining compliance with applicable policies and procedures to provide a safe workplace. Lead team safety discussions.
- Read, interpret, assign, and process work orders in a timely manner.
- Prepare accurate and itemized cost estimates for irrigation systems, equipment maintenance and landscaping projects.
- Maintain complete and accurate records pertaining to equipment maintenance, inventories of shop parts, irrigation parts, materials and supplies.
- Inventory materials including small equipment.
- Assume additional responsibilities in supervisor's absence.
- Enter Time and Attendance daily with accurate work order numbers.
- Respond in emergency situations.
- Keep all work areas clean, well-organized and safe at all times.
- Attend safety meetings and safety training sessions.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.


Minimum Qualifications

• Class B CDL with air brake endorsement, obtained within six (6) months of employment and maintained throughout employment.
• Washington State Department of Health Backflow Assembly Tester Certification, obtained within six months of employment and maintained throughout employment.
• Forklift Operator certifications including rough terrain obtained within six months of employment and maintained throughout employment.
• Valid Washington State driver's license.
• Experience as a journey-level worker in equipment maintenance, construction, or repair work.
• Experience in designing, installing, and maintaining irrigation systems.
• Knowledge in interpreting mechanical, engineering drawings and diagrams.
• Experience in operating central computer-controlled irrigation system and software.
• Experience in operating, diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining heavy equipment, small equipment, and power/hand tools.
• Experience in using Word, Excel, e-mail, and/or similar software applications to produce written correspondence, documentation, create simple reports, receive, and respond to e-mail inquiries, report time, etc.
• Knowledge of electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems.
• Ability to perform the job duties of the position and meet the physical demands of the working conditions.
• Demonstrated ability and/or experience working collaboratively with students and/or colleagues to foster a supportive and effective learning and work environment.
• OR applicable combination of education and/or experience which demonstrates the ability to perform the essential functions of the position.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in:
  • Professional landscape construction and grounds maintenance.
  • Lead position.
  • Managing time and priorities of self and staff to meet multiple deadlines.
• Knowledge of:
  • Legal mandates, policies, regulations, and guidelines pertaining to the operation of heavy equipment.
  • Construction principles, methods, and codes for trenching, shoring, and soil compaction.
• Training in:
  • Accident and general safety.
  • Construction equipment operation.
  • Related course work.
• Ability to incorporate a variety of perspectives and relevant societal issues into everyday conversations.
  • Life experiences that demonstrate an ability to contribute to CWU's vision, mission, and values.

Competencies

• Accountability/Dependability: Accepts responsibility for quality of own work; acknowledges and corrects mistakes. Shows up on time, meets standards, deadlines, and work schedules.
• Judgement: Makes timely, informed decisions. Analyzes options and determines appropriate course of action.
• Teamwork: Promotes cooperation and mutual support to achieve goals. Encourages participation and mutual support.
• Adaptability/Flexibility: Responds positively to changing business needs and responsibilities. Adapts approach and methods to achieve results; recovers quickly from setbacks and finds alternatives.
• Commitment to Belonging: Values the uniqueness of every individual and fosters an environment where everyone feels respected and empowered to thrive.

Don't meet every single requirement? At CWU, we're committed to creating a welcoming and genuine workplace. If you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification, we still encourage you to apply. This could be the opportunity you're looking for!


Pay, Benefits, & Work Schedule



Salary : This position is based on the range 51G of the Washington State Classification Listing, which has a minimum annual salary of $64,776 and maximum annual salary of $75,108. In accordance with RCW 49.58.110, the above salary reflects the full salary range for this position. Individual placement within the range is based on the candidate's current experience, education, skills, and abilities related to the position.

Schedule/Appointment : Monday - Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm (1 hour lunch) / WFSE Bargaining Unit 1

Working Conditions : This position will work indoors and outdoors, including work in inclement weather during daylight and dark hours and at times in hot/cold/noisy/dirty/wet/confined areas such as mechanical rooms, manholes and excavations. Will need to physically access work areas with the equipment and tools necessary for completion of the job. This position often requires standing/crawling/bending/walking/climbing/carrying (up to 50 pounds) /pulling/pushing/lifting associated with moving of equipment and tools. Some stooping, kneeling, repetitive motion of arms and hands, and other physical movements as required by assigned tasks and essential functions of the position. Must be physically able to ride/operate equipment for an 8-hour workday 5 days per week in areas that include pedestrian traffic, vehicles, and buildings as well as open spaces. In addition, this position will work with and be exposed to machinery, tools, electrical equipment, and chemicals associated with pesticide application. Will work around all utilities during excavations, maintenance and installations and be exposed to insects that may be in the environment. Must maintain awareness of immediate vicinity in order to recognize, respond to and/or avoid potentially hazardous conditions/ surroundings. Frequent use of personal protection equipment such as ear plugs, safety glasses and filtration masks will be required.

Scheduled hours will vary depending on the needs of the department. Occasional overtime and shift work are required. May be required to work weekends, days, evenings and holidays. Occasional travel may be required. This position is considered an essential position and availability will be required to respond to callback situations including University emergencies.

Benefits : CWU offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical and dental insurance, retirement and optional savings plans, life and disability insurance, along with vacation and sick leave plans depending on employment classification. For additional information please visit Benefits, Perks, and Leave and Total Rewards Calculator .

An employee of CWU may be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program if the employee has student loans. To learn more, visit: .


How To Apply


To apply for this position, you must complete the on-line application and attach:

• Resume including work history, education, training; and
• Contact information for three professional references.

Screening Begins: June 24, 2026

**Priority will be given to applications received by the screening date. Incomplete applications may not be considered.


Contact Information


Name: Blair McNeillie
Title: Maintenance Specialist 4
Email: View email address on click.appcast.io
Phone: View phone number on click.appcast.io
Website:

Please contact Human Resources at View email address on click.appcast.io or View phone number on click.appcast.io if you require technical assistance with the on-line application process.


Conditions of Employment



Background Check/Reference Check Process:

Prior to employment, final candidate(s) will be required to sign a Sexual Misconduct disclosure in pursuant to RCW 28B.112.080 and submit to a background check. All information obtained through background investigations will be strictly confidential and revealed only to those required to have access.


This position is part of a Washington Federation of State Employees Bargaining Unit I.


Notice to Prospective Employees:

Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Statement

Central Washington University is an EEO/AA/Title IX Institution. Central Washington University's policies and practices affirm and actively promote the rights of all individuals to equal opportunity in education and employment. Discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, age, marital status, disability, or status as a protected veteran is prohibited. The university provides an internal procedure for reporting discrimination and affords protection against retaliation for participating in the complaint process. Central Washington University complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and executive orders including when soliciting bids and in the fulfillment of all contracts with governmental agencies. Direct related inquiries to Civil Rights Compliance , 202 Barge Hall, Ellensburg, WA 98926-7501; Telephone View phone number on click.appcast.io; or email View email address on click.appcast.io.

Reasonable Accommodations

Central Washington University provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities who are employees or applicants for employment. Employment opportunities will not be denied because of the need to make reasonable accommodations for a qualified individual with a disability. If you need assistance or accommodation in applying because of a disability, please contact Human Resources at View email address on click.appcast.io or call View phone number on click.appcast.io. This job announcement and other material on this site will be made available in alternate formats upon request to an individual with a disability.

Annual Security and Fire Safety Report (Clery Act)

For the Central Washington University Annual Security and Fire Safety Report (i.e. Clery Report) which includes statistics about reported crimes and information about campus security policies, available online here or call CWU Police and Parking Services at View phone number on click.appcast.io for a paper copy.