Steamfitter / Industrial Mechanic

Virginia Commonwealth University•Richmond, VA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

VCU’s Facilities Management Department is seeking to hire a Steamfitter/Industrial Mechanic in the Steam Plant. The Steamfitter is responsible for the maintenance and repair of MCV and MPC steam plants and distribution systems, ensuring reliable and efficient operation in compliance with safety and environmental regulations. This role also provides technical expertise to other departments and interfaces with customers to address any issues. The steam plant operates 24/7/365, with a main plant consisting of three 125,000 lbs/hour boilers. The position requires working assigned shifts, including weekends and overtime, and being on-call 24 hours rotationally.

Requirements

General maintenance knowledge or experience in steam or industrial settings
General computer skills
Familiarity with basic safety and environmental rules and procedures
Good interpersonal communication, role model, operational and professional excellence skills
High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
Valid Driver’s license required
Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU.

Nice To Haves

1-3 years knowledge and experience in steam boiler or industrial steam plants preferred
Pipe or steam fitting training or education program completed preferred
Engineering, military, or combined experience
Experience in University, Boiler Plant, Power Plant, or Central District Heating systems
Combined education and experience repairing steam systems
Previous mechanical, technical, welding experience
Strong technical abilities for analyzing, repairing, and working on various systems
Strong communication skills to collaborate with colleagues and interact with clients

Responsibilities

Responsible for maintenance and repair of MCV and MPC steam plants and distribution systems, ensuring that each plant operates reliably, efficiently, and at all times in compliance with safety and environmental regulations
Maintain, repair boilers and mechanical equipment providing utilities for Hospital, Academic, and State buildings
Ensure long equipment life, operating efficiency, and equipment availability by following accepted procedures
Use solid inspection techniques to detect and correct problems at an early stage to avoid costly problems later
Utilize troubleshooting skills to remedy malfunctions and return equipment to full functionality in minimum time, maximizing revenue and profitability, and minimizing maintenance costs
Work assigned shifts including weekends and overtime as required; work during inclement weather
At times, work other than normal shifts; 24-hour rotational on-call status is required
Make repairs and perform preventive maintenance tasks as needed
Follow safety procedures to guard against burns, electric shock, noise, dangerous moving parts, and exposure to hazardous materials
Interface with customers ensuring needs are met should problems arise
Demonstrate competency through successful completion of maintenance tasks and repair situations
Proper use of hammers, saws, levels, pullers, clamps, etc.
Proper use of drills, saws, grinders, sanders, etc.
Use and interpret drawing dimensions, symbols, components, etc.
Proper use of ropes, chains, hoists, loaders, cranes, signaling, etc.
Proper use of tools to grip, level, fabricate, cut, and bend materials
Proper use of tools to cut, grind, thread, and shape all types of materials
Proper types, positioning, fall arrests, assembly and care
Proper use of hand and power tools, safety procedures, and techniques
Proper use of hardware systems, applications, and installation
Proper use and fabrication of gaskets, packing, and O-rings
Proper operation and installation of various pump and driver types
Installation, storage, and handling of various valve types
Lubrication selection, storage, equipment use, classifications, and safety
Perform a variety of routine, unskilled, or semi-skilled tasks to performing a wide variety of skilled repair, installation, and maintenance tasks on steam distribution lines with hot water, cold water, boilers, and diverse institutional fixtures and related equipment
Knowledge of the installation, repair, and maintenance practices, equipment, and materials used in steam distribution operations, including procurement procedures, and applicable building requirements
Work as a member of multi-craft teams responsible for providing all repair and maintenance service required in all assigned campus and building areas
Use technical manuals, understanding of industrial equipment, and observations to determine causes of, and solutions to problems
Follow proper safety procedures at all times. Practice safety habits that reduce the possibility of personal injury, injury to others, and damage to equipment
Understanding of all potential hazards and the safety systems that provide protection
Practice required Lockout/Tagout procedures when performing maintenance and repairs
Know the locations of all fire extinguishers, emergency showers, and eyewash stations
Train on-the-job under the supervision of experienced steamfitters and maintenance mechanics
OJT may be supplemented by courses at trade, vocational, or technical schools
After demonstrated competence, move on to more complicated tasks. Use each task to refine knowledge and skills
Update skills in the profession regularly, especially when new equipment is introduced