Lead Water Distribution and Collection Specialist

CSU Careers•San José, CA

19d

About The Position

Under general supervision, the Lead Water Distribution and Collection Specialist performs the full range of skilled, journey-level plumbing work involved in the installation, maintenance, modification, inspection, and repair of mechanical plumbing systems and fixtures related to water, gas, oil, steam, sewage, fire prevention, and refrigeration systems including automated systems. The position provides lead work direction to skilled, semi-skilled, and unskilled workers in the plumbing trade and ensures work meets safety, compliance, and operational standards. The incumbent’s primary responsibility is leading potable and recycled water distribution and collection system operations across campus, including monitoring, testing, and chemically treating water systems to maintain quality and compliance. The role includes performing backflow prevention device testing, cross-connection control, and ensuring regulatory adherence through documentation and preventive maintenance activities. Additional duties include estimating labor and materials for plumbing projects, maintaining shop tools and equipment, inspecting contractor work, using computerized maintenance systems for record-keeping, and ensuring work meets applicable codes and standards. The incumbent collaborates closely with other trades within Facilities Development and Operations to maintain the reliability and safety of the university’s utility systems.

Requirements

Thorough knowledge of the methods, materials, tools, and equipment used in the plumbing trade and water distribution systems
Working knowledge of effective supervisory and work coordination practices
Thorough understanding of applicable state and federal health and safety codes, including California State Plumbing Code and Division of Industrial Safety orders
Ability to lead, instruct, and coordinate the work of a small crew
Ability to read, interpret, and work from blueprints, plans, and specifications
Skill in estimating time, materials, and labor for plumbing projects
Ability to maintain records and prepare standard and complex reports
Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills with the ability to analyze and respond appropriately to emergency situations
Ability to operate and maintain a variety of hand and power tools, testing instruments, and water treatment equipment
Proficiency with computerized maintenance management and building automation systems
Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to foster a positive, respectful, and customer-focused work environment
Ability to take initiative, organize and prioritize work effectively, and meet deadlines with minimal supervision
Commitment to workplace safety, sustainability, and continuous improvement
These abilities normally would be acquired through any combination of progressively responsible training and experience which demonstrates achievement journey-level skills equivalent to that acquired through completion of a standard plumber’s apprenticeship program
One to two years of experience as a journey-level plumber that included work coordination responsibilities
Possession of a valid California Driver’s License and driving record that allows for the operation of any vehicle or equipment required for the position
A valid driver's license is required for this position. Out of state candidates selected for the position must obtain a State of California driver's license within 10 days of hire in accordance with the California Department of Motor Vehicles regulations. Once hired the employee must successfully complete the Defensive Driver Training Program provided by the State of California for California State University campuses.

Nice To Haves

Possession of backflow prevention assembly testing credential
Possession of cross-connection specialist credential
Possession of Water Distribution or Treatment Operator credential (Grade 2 minimum)
Experience leading groups of skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled trades people
Experience with a public water system (PWS)

Responsibilities

Provide lead work direction to skilled, semi-skilled, and unskilled staff in plumbing and water distribution operations; assign, monitor, and inspect work for compliance with codes, standards, and safety requirements
Perform the full range of skilled plumbing work, including installation, modification, repair, and maintenance of mechanical plumbing systems for water, gas, oil, steam, condensate, sewage, fire prevention, and refrigeration
Lead and perform maintenance, testing, and repair of potable and recycled water systems; monitor, test, and chemically treat water to maintain compliance with health and safety standards
Conduct backflow device testing, recordkeeping, and maintenance; perform recycled and potable water cross-connection testing and corrective actions per regulatory standards
Perform routine inspections, troubleshoot plumbing systems, and complete repairs to ensure reliability and water quality
Estimate cost, labor, and materials; coordinate with other trades and contractors to ensure efficient and compliant project execution
Follow established safety procedures, maintain required certifications, and ensure adherence to Cal/OSHA, state plumbing codes, and university safety policies
Maintain detailed maintenance and testing records, document as-built changes, and prepare standard reports using computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS)
Communicate effectively with campus constituents to address plumbing service needs and ensure timely resolution of issues

Benefits

San José State University offers employees a comprehensive benefits package typically worth 30-35% of your base salary.
For more information on programs available, please see the Employee Benefits Summary

Stand Out From the Crowd

Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.

Upload and Match Resume