Position Title: Maintenance Technician
Department: Facilities Services (CBU)
Advertised Pay: $20.60/hr
Campus Location: Washburn University
Application Deadline: Application review will begin as applications are received and will continue until the position is filled. Applicants can be assured of full consideration if submitted by 5pm, July 27, 2026.
Position Summary: Under general supervision, the Maintenance Technician performs a variety of skilled and semi-skilled duties to ensure the proper functioning, safety, and operational efficiency of Washburn buildings, systems, and equipment. This role requires a proactive approach to maintenance, strong problem-solving skills, and collaboration with campus staff, contractors, and external partners. The Maintenance Technician is a vital member of the Facilities team, contributing to a well-maintained and safe environment for the entire Washburn community.
About Washburn University: Washburn University is a teaching-focused, student-centered, public institution located in the metropolitan setting of Topeka that has earned national recognition for its high-impact programs for first-generation students. Washburn has a student body of just over 7,000 students, a significant and growing number of whom are first-generation and Pell-Grant eligible. The University has created educational pathways for all students to be successful and achieve their educational goals.
Washburn is dedicated to recruiting and retaining a dynamic faculty, staff, and student body and cultivating a robust learning and working environment and curriculum. We employ more than one thousand faculty and staff on our campuses throughout Topeka and strive to offer competitive wages, an excellent benefits program, and a supportive culture and a healthy work/life balance. Washburn seeks to create an environment that reflects our core values for creating positive IMPACT: inclusion, modernization, partnership, achievement, community and transformation. In 2024, Washburn was recognized as one of the best colleges in the nation to work for, according to Great Colleges to Work For® program.
Essential Functions:
HVAC, Boiler, and Mechanical Systems
• Operate, monitor, and perform preventative and corrective maintenance on heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), and boiler systems. This includes tasks such as repairing boilers, pumps, and related support equipment, and checking building automation systems (BAS) for temperature and equipment functionality.
General Building and System Maintenance
• Perform skilled and semi-skilled repair work on building structures and mechanical systems as assigned through the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) or other software.
• Inspect and address deficiencies in building systems, including plumbing, electrical, and HVAC equipment.
• Maintain building interiors by repairing ceiling tiles, floor tile, cove bases, and other materials; patching and painting interior walls and surfaces; and replacing lamps.
• Address plumbing issues, including clearing sewage blockages, drain lines, and cleaning roof drains.
• Conduct repairs on doors, locks, and other hardware.
Inspections and Diagnostics
• Inspect and test various campus systems and equipment, including air compressors, fire sprinkler piping systems, grease traps, and sewer pumps, to ensure optimal function and safety.
Facility Operations and Support
• Provide essential service and event support across campus as directed by Facilities supervisors.
• Perform snow and ice removal duties as assigned during inclement weather.
• Conduct maintenance on water features, swimming pools, and/or whirlpools, including minor water chemical treatments, adhering to manufacturer guidelines and Washburn standards.
Compliance and Reporting
• Ensure all maintenance tasks are performed according to manufacturer specifications and Washburn, local, and OSHA safety regulations.
• Document all completed repairs, work orders, and inspections accurately within the CMMS or other designated software.
• Communicate deficiencies to immediate supervisors and recommend process improvements to enhance operational efficiency.
Collaboration
• Work with and assist engineers, contractors, and consultants during safety evaluations, system repairs, and project planning. Provide information on Washburn procedures and practices to support project coordination.
Professional Conduct
• Always maintain a professional, safe, and clean work environment.
Perform additional job-related duties as assigned or as appropriate.
Required Qualifications:
• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• One year of relevant work experience in building maintenance, or completion of a certified trade program in a related field.
• Demonstrated training in Building Maintenance, acquired through on-the-job training or a completed certification program.
• Proven ability in maintaining commercial building mechanical systems.
• Effective communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Demonstrated effective troubleshooting and problem-solving skills to diagnose and repair issues efficiently.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record under Washburn standards.
Physical Requirements:
• The ability to move, lift, and maneuver materials weighing up to 50 pounds. Heavier items may require team lifting.
• Ability to work from a ladder and/or lifts safely. Training provided.
• Must be able to respond to emergency service calls outside of regularly scheduled work hours and be available to work various shifts as assigned.
• The role involves exposure to various physical hazards associated with building maintenance and repair, as well as outdoor weather conditions.
• This is a Designated Safety Sensitive position and will be required to undergo drug screening.
Preferred Qualifications:
• Proven expertise in at least two different skilled trades relevant to building maintenance (e.g., electrical, plumbing, carpentry).
• Experience with a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS).
• Experience with a Building Automation System (BAS).
• Safety or chemical management training.
• Fundamental computer literacy, including the ability to enter data and communicate via email.
Special Instructions to Applicants: INTERNAL Position Posting for Employees in Bargaining Unit Positions Only
For employees currently serving as a Maintenance Technician, complete and submit a Washburn University Transfer Request form. This form is available on the Facilities Services Bulletin Board or in Human Resources, Morgan 118. For employees currently serving in other Bargaining Unit positions, visit mywucareer.washburn.edu, select the position, and complete the online application. Online applications or Transfer requests must be submitted by 5pm, July 27, 2026, to receive consideration for this position under this announcement. Current Maintenance Technicians will receive first consideration in keeping with paragraph 6.3 of the MOA. “6.3 Bargaining unit positions that become vacant will be posted internally for a minimum of 4 working days prior to an external recruitment. When a vacant position is to be filled, an employee in a position possessing the same job specification title as the vacant position may apply for reassignment to the vacant position. In the event that more than one employee requests reassignment, the employee with seniority shall be reassigned. There shall be no probationary period for such reassigned employee.”
Hourly, Full-time, Mon-Fri, 8am-4:30pm
Background check, driving history, and drug screen are required.