Utilities Distribution Specialist

Virginia Tech•Blacksburg, VA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Reporting to the Utilities Distribution Supervisor, the Utilities Distribution Specialist works in a multidisciplinary environment to install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair critical utility infrastructure across Virginia Tech’s Blacksburg campus. Systems and equipment include chilled water and steam lines, valves, traps, domestic water, storm drains, sewer lines, pumps, fans, fire hydrants, and related instruments and equipment. The role performs specialized, skilled steamfitter work and general service work on mechanical equipment, including maintenance, lubrication, and component replacement. The specialist diagnoses utility distribution system problems, lays out piping systems, and installs pipefitting in compliance with applicable codes and construction documents, as directed by departmental leadership. Work may be performed independently or as part of a team, and the specialist is expected to work effectively with university colleagues and provide clear instructions to team members. The specialist may serve in the absence of a Utilities Distribution Lead as needed. The position involves operating heavy equipment for utility installation and maintenance, working around high- and low-voltage electrical distribution systems in tunnels, and working in confined spaces and all types of weather. It is designated as essential emergency personnel; additional hours or shifts may be required, and employees must report during major emergencies, outages, emergency situations, and authorized closings. The role is non-exempt and eligible for overtime.

Requirements

Working skill in using plumbing-trade hand and power tools, including pipe threading machines, torches, drills, rotary hammers, and sewer cleaners.
Commercial Driver’s License with Class B endorsements and valid DOT medical certification.
Ability to safely and frequently handle or move objects weighing up to 50 pounds alone and up to an estimated 100 pounds with assistance or tools.
Ability to maneuver materials on stairs; climb and work from ladders and scaffolds; and stand, walk, sit, reach, bend, and push or pull for extended periods.
Ability to work safely in designated confined spaces; training is provided.
Ability to work in all weather conditions, including extreme temperatures.
Demonstrated general construction experience.
Familiarity with operating heavy equipment.
General computer skills for basic functions such as using Microsoft Outlook.
Must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future visa sponsorship.
Successful candidate must complete a criminal conviction check.

Nice To Haves

Journeyman-level experience in general plumbing.
Demonstrated steamfitting experience.
Experience with plumbing and piping installation and maintenance in industrial, commercial, or institutional buildings.
Experience operating backhoes, mini-excavators, and forklifts.
Considerable knowledge of steam distribution systems.
Experience with commercial or industrial distribution systems.
Experience reading and interpreting written instructions, blueprints, and schematic drawings.
Experience or knowledge handling utility locate requests, such as requests from Miss Utility.
Familiarity working around low- and high-voltage areas to maintain and repair mechanical utility systems.
Experience in a multi-trade, multidisciplinary environment.
Safety training such as chainsaw safety; confined-space entry/attendant/supervisor; electrical qualified person; excavation qualified person; fall hazard awareness and fall protection; first aid/CPR/AED; HazCom Right-to-Know; hearing conservation; hotline hold tags; ladder safety; authorized lockout/tagout; mobile crane safety; personal protective equipment; portable fire extinguisher; reverse signal operation safety; scaffold awareness; VDOT flagger certification; and VDOT work zone basic safety training.

Responsibilities

Troubleshoot, repair, maintain, and install steam lines, chilled water lines, and related lines and instruments.
Install or replace piping systems and related equipment for water, storm, sanitary sewer, steam, heating hot water, condensate, and chilled water.
Work around high-voltage (12.47 kV) and low-voltage (under 600 V) electrical distribution systems in tunnels as required.
Read and interpret construction documents and shop drawings.
Promote responsible and efficient work among team members by providing clear, descriptive instructions.
Develop knowledge of the materials and equipment used for utility system projects.
Perform repairs and installations individually or as part of a team.
Operate heavy equipment, including excavators, backhoes, trenchers, line/service trucks, forklifts, horizontal boring machines, and related equipment, for utility system installation and maintenance.
Proactively diagnose utility distribution system problems and perform repairs.
Lay out piping systems and install pipefitting in compliance with applicable codes and construction documents, as instructed by departmental leadership.
Perform general mechanical equipment service, including maintenance, lubrication, and replacement of system components.
Serve in the absence of a Utilities Distribution Lead as needed.
Work additional hours or shifts when required to meet university needs and report to work during emergencies and outages.