Preventative Maintenance Mechanic

Job Summary

The Preventative Maintenance Mechanic is responsible for performing routine maintenance, inspections, and repairs on various systems and equipment within the central plant and across campus buildings. This role ensures the continuous, efficient operation of heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), plumbing, electrical systems, and other critical mechanical systems to meet safety, regulatory, and operational standards.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of how to operate, maintain, and repair mechanical systems such as boilers, chillers, pumps, HVAC, and electrical systems.
• Knowledge of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, including troubleshooting, calibration, and repairs.
• Knowledge of plumbing systems, including water, drainage, and fire suppression systems, as well as related codes and regulations.
• Familiarity with Building Automation Systems (BAS) and energy management systems used to control building operations.
• Knowledge of OSHA, EPA, and other safety regulations related to maintenance, hazardous materials, and emergency procedures.
• Knowledge of preventive maintenance practices to keep equipment running safely and efficiently.
• Ability to read and understand blueprints, wiring diagrams, schematics, and technical manuals.
• Skill in finding and repairing mechanical, electrical, and plumbing problems using testing and diagnostic tools.
• Skill in following maintenance schedules and completing inspections, preventive maintenance, and repairs on time.
• Skill in using hand and power tools to repair and replace equipment.
• Skill in identifying and applying energy-saving practices to improve building efficiency.
• Strong communication skills to work with coworkers, supervisors, and customers and report maintenance issues clearly.
• Skill in keeping accurate maintenance records, repair logs, and compliance documentation.
• Strong problem-solving skills to diagnose issues and determine effective repair solutions.
• Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting heavy objects, climbing ladders, and working in confined spaces.
• Ability to pay close attention to detail and identify equipment problems during inspections.
• Ability to prioritize work, balancing routine maintenance with emergency repairs.
• Ability to work in indoor, outdoor, and challenging environments and respond to emergencies.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team to maintain building systems.
• Ability to provide professional and timely customer service to faculty, staff, and students.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in mechanical, electrical, HVAC, or facilities maintenance.
• Valid driver's license
• Experience performing preventive maintenance on mechanical, electrical, or plumbing systems in a commercial, industrial, institutional, or campus environment.
• Experience diagnosing and repairing mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.
• Experience using hand tools, power tools, and diagnostic testing equipment.
• Experience working with Building Automation Systems (BAS) or Energy Management Systems (EMS).

Preferred Qualifications

Technical certification or an associate''s degree in mechanical systems, electrical systems, HVAC, or a related field

Bachelor''s degree in Facilities Management, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field

At least five (5) years of experience working on a college campus or other large facility, including central plants and building systems

Experience with energy management systems and energy-saving or sustainability programs

Experience using building management software or a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) to schedule and track maintenance, repairs, and inventory

Strong knowledge of and experience troubleshooting boilers, chillers, HVAC, and other large commercial or industrial building systems

Certified Maintenance Technician (CMT) or Certified Plant Maintenance Manager (CPMM) certification

Additional certifications in HVAC, plumbing, or electrical systems beyond the basic requirements

Compensation & Benefits

• Job Family - Facilities Services Trades Specialist 3
• Market Range - 6 Salary Schedules
• For information on benefits, please visit Employee Benefits

Application Instructions and additional details

• Non-exempt positions are only required to be posted for a minimum of five (5) calendar days. The closing date for this posting is subject to change without notice to applicants.
• Employment is contingent on a satisfactory background check

ETSU is an Equal Opportunity Employer

University Overview

East Tennessee State University (ETSU) is an institution with over 14,000 diverse students highly ranked graduate and undergraduate programs. Located in the Southern Appalachian Mountains of Northeast Tennessee, ETSU serves as a hub for community, discovery, and service. Aligned with the institution''s mission, we value efforts to engage in teaching, scholarship, creative activities, and service that involve community partners and address significant societal needs in our region and beyond. Recognized in 2024 as a Great College to Work For, recent strategic initiatives prioritize the institution's focus on community engagement.

Disclaimer: The Job Summary is intended to describe the general nature and level of work individuals perform in this classification. It is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Management reserves the right to revise the job or require different tasks to be performed as assigned to reflect changes in the position. Employees must be able to perform the position''s essential functions satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations.