Steamfitter / Industrial Mechanic

Virginia Commonwealth University•Richmond, VA

22d•$60,000 - $70,000•Onsite

About The Position

VCU’s Facilities Management Department is hiring a Steamfitter/Industrial Mechanic to maintain and repair the MCV and MPC steam plants and distribution systems. The role helps ensure reliable and efficient plant operations that comply with safety and environmental regulations, provides technical expertise to other departments, and works with customers to address problems. The main steam plant operates 24/7/365 and includes three 125,000 lbs/hour boilers, with typical loads ranging from 35,000 lbs/hour in summer to as much as 135,000 lbs/hour in winter. The position maintains boilers and mechanical equipment supplying utilities to hospital, academic, and state buildings. It uses inspection and troubleshooting to identify problems early, restore equipment functionality, extend equipment life, and support efficient operation. The employee performs repairs and preventive maintenance, follows safety procedures, works assigned shifts including weekends and overtime as required, works in inclement weather when needed, and participates in a 24-hour rotational on-call schedule. The role involves routine through skilled repair, installation, and maintenance work on steam distribution lines, hot- and cold-water systems, boilers, institutional fixtures, and related equipment. It also involves working on multi-craft teams, using technical manuals and observations to diagnose problems, and communicating with customers and colleagues. Training is provided on the job under experienced steamfitters and maintenance mechanics, with possible supplementation through trade, vocational, or technical school courses and NCCER training materials.

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 behavior, and operational and professional excellence skills.
High school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
Valid driver’s license.
Ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism, and civility with faculty, staff, and students from varied backgrounds and experiences, or commitment to do so.
Ability to diagnose and repair complex systems and machines.
Manual dexterity, precise motions, steady hands, and good coordination for using tools and repairing equipment.
Ability to use tools and work with piping, machines, and accessories, and to operate, maintain, and repair equipment.
Ability to solve problems quickly and responsibly, with a good work ethic.
Ability to lift and move heavy tools and materials.
Ability to direct work, plan schedules, and communicate with customers or clients.
Ability to work in areas with piping, valves, and machinery and to perform work involving ladders, tight spaces, and potentially confined equipment interiors.

Nice To Haves

1–3 years of knowledge and experience in steam boilers or industrial steam plants.
Completed pipefitting or steamfitting training or education program.
Engineering, military, or combined experience.
Experience in a university, boiler plant, power plant, or central district heating system.
Combined education and experience repairing steam systems.
Previous mechanical, technical, or welding experience.
Strong technical abilities for analyzing, repairing, and working on various systems.
Strong communication skills for collaborating with colleagues and interacting with clients.

Responsibilities

Maintain and repair MCV and MPC steam plants and distribution systems, supporting reliable, efficient, safe, and environmentally compliant operations.
Maintain and repair boilers and mechanical equipment that provide utilities to hospital, academic, and state buildings.
Use accepted procedures and inspection techniques to extend equipment life, maintain operating efficiency and availability, and identify problems early.
Troubleshoot malfunctions and return equipment to full functionality while minimizing downtime and maintenance costs.
Perform repairs and preventive maintenance tasks as needed.
Work assigned shifts, including weekends and overtime as required; work during inclement weather and outside normal shifts when necessary; participate in a 24-hour rotational on-call schedule.
Follow safety procedures to prevent injury and equipment damage, including applicable Lockout/Tagout practices and precautions for hazards such as burns, electric shock, noise, moving parts, and hazardous materials.
Interface with customers and other departments to address problems and ensure their needs are met.
Demonstrate competency through successful completion of maintenance tasks and repair situations.
Use hand and power tools, lifting and rigging equipment, technical manuals, and drawings to perform steamfitting and industrial maintenance work.
Work as a member of multi-craft teams providing repair and maintenance services in assigned campus and building areas.
Continue developing and updating professional skills, including as new equipment is introduced.