Fire Mechanic

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join Harvard University Central Administration?

Harvard University's Central Administration (CADM) is a 5,000+ employee organization that supports the university's overall excellence by understanding and serving the needs of its schools, students, faculty, staff, alumni, and surrounding communities. Through dynamic and collaborative partnerships, CADM provides high-quality and efficient services to the schools to help them achieve their goals.

Facilities Maintenance Operations (FMO) offers building & landscape maintenance, and custodial services to Harvard faculties and departments on a fee-for-service basis. All services are provided in strict accordance with customer-determined standards. As such, FMO operates as an in-house alternative to contractor services and therefore must manage itself under the same principles that guide any successful maintenance service business.

Job Description

Responsible for the daily coordination of services performed by a team of skilled Fire mechanics and Electricians, providing fire safety services in facilities located within a generally defined area of the Harvard campus. Installs, maintains, inspects and tests building life-safety equipment and systems, including fire alarm panels, detection and signal devices (smoke and heat detectors, lights and audible alarms), water and chemical-based suppression systems, portable fire extinguishers, fire escapes and hydrants. 

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Performs all required installation, maintenance and repair, inspection and testing of life safety equipment in accordance with applicable standards and requirements of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and the Massachusetts State Building Life Safety Codes and/or established compliance requirements of the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Interprets and updates mechanical plans, drawings and prints as necessary. 

Assists and advises customers on progress / status of work and provides responsive and effective customer support in all phases of FSS and building maintenance operations, including advising customers on maintenance solutions and providing follow-up on progress and status of work. 

May be assigned to work independently or as part of a multi-trade team under the guidance and direction of the FSS Supervisor and/or Working Foreperson. Must observe and comply with all standard safety codes and practices and perform work in accordance with recognized trade and University standards. Performs others duties as required.

Physical Requirements:

Must be able to stoop and bend repeatedly and work on hands and knees and other awkward positions for extended periods. Must be able to lift up a minimum of 50 lbs. and to push, pull and transport piping and equipment in excess of 200 lbs. with others (may use chain falls and come alongs for heavier lifting). Must be able to routinely walk to and from various buildings or work sites carrying tools, equipment and other essentials. Must be able to work alone, in confined spaces and extreme temperatures, climb multiple sets of stairs, work off ladders, staging, lifts or other elevated platforms.

Qualifications

Basic

Qualifications

• Minimum five years’ recent experience installing and maintaining building life safety systems, including: fire alarm systems, remote central station fire alarm monitoring equipment, and associated devices. 
• Must maintain a valid Massachusetts Fire Alarm Class D Systems Installer License.
• Valid State driver’s license and satisfactory driving history.
• Experience and demonstrated proficiency in the use of industry-recognized diagnostic testing equipment. 

Additional

Qualifications

• Must be able to perform mathematical calculations required to accurately size and install system components and devices. 
• Must be able to read and interpret detailed plans, drawings, specifications, operating manuals and other written materials associated with this trade.
• Demonstrated ability to follow complex instructions and to exercise sound judgment in performance of routine and emergency assignments with minimal direct supervision or oversight required. 
• Must be able to effectively communicate in English with peers and customers, clearly and professionally at all times. 
• Must demonstrate initiative, ownership of outcomes, and customer-focused approach to all work assignments. 
• Must be able to work both independently and as effective member of a team and in conjunction with other trades and support personnel. 
• Experience and demonstrated proficiency in programming Simplex Systems, (Not including network systems)

Technology Skills Required: Basic keyboard proficiency and understanding of Windows® based software including MS Office and related applications. 

Special Requirements (and ongoing conditions of employment) :

• Must possess a valid Massachusetts state Class D license.
• Experience using Maximo, scheduling employees work and Overtime. 
• Advance training on troubleshooting and installing fire alarm systems.
• Must possess a valid State driver’s license and satisfactory driving history.
• Must be willing to work in research laboratory environments and around hazardous materials.
• Required to wear/use appropriate safety clothing/equipment at all times.
• Required to properly wear department-issued uniforms and maintain a professional image at all times.
• Must be willing to work overtime in response to campus emergencies or other group business needs. 
• Required to supply a complete set of hand tools.

Additional Information

Location:  Cambridge, MA

Compensation Range/Rate (including Shift Differential if applicable): $52.34/hour Plus a $2.35/hour shift differential

Visa Sponsorship Information:  Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position

Emergency Status Designation : Critical Operations Personnel

Standard Hours/Schedule: 40 hours per week

• Sunday: 10:00 pm (Sat night) - 6:00 am (Sun morning)
• Monday: 10:00 pm (Sun night) - 6:00 am (Mon morning)
• Tuesday: 10:00 pm (Mon night) - 6:00 am (Tues morning)
• Wednesday: 10:00 pm (Tues night) - 6:00 am (Wed morning)
• Thursday: 10:00 pm (Wed night) - 6:00 am (Thurs morning)
• Friday: Off
• Saturday: Off

Pre-employment screening:

• Identity
• Education
• Professional Licenses
• Criminal
• Motor Vehicle Record
• Drug Test
• References

#LI-RC1

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 000. Corresponding salary information can be found in the

job description

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page . 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination . We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy . Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.