Vehicle Equipment & Grounds Technician III

Universities of Wisconsin•River Falls, WI

22h•Onsite

About The Position

This position reports directly to the Grounds Manager for general direction. Primary responsibilities include performing preventive maintenance and repairs on ground maintenance vehicles and equipment and operation of equipment in support of seasonal grounds maintenance tasks. Secondary responsibilities include hardscape tasks on campus grounds. Performs plowing and winter management duties during early morning hours, evenings and weekends as needed during winter. In addition, this position performs installation, repair and preventative maintenance of storm water and run off structures, irrigation, fountains, etc. Perform other duties including moves, set-ups and coordination and direction of other employees as assigned.

Requirements

Strong mechanical aptitude, including the ability to safely operate, inspect, maintain, and repair vehicles, grounds equipment, and hand and power tools.
Ability to diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical system issues and interpret technical manuals, schematics, and parts documentation.
Knowledge of safe work practices, OSHA standards, hazard recognition, and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Ability to perform preventive maintenance, maintain accurate service records, and manage equipment lifecycle and repair activities.
Proficiency in basic computer systems for work order entry, recordkeeping, and maintenance tracking.
Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with supervisors, coworkers, vendors, etc,.
Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and respond to emergencies or operational needs outside regular work hours.
Ability to perform physically demanding work in outdoor environments under varying weather conditions, including lifting up to 50 pounds and operating equipment safely.
Basic mathematical skills for measurements, calculations, and material or cost estimates.
Knowledge of, or ability to obtain, required licenses and certifications, including a valid driver’s license, pesticide applicator license, and forklift certification.
H.S. Diploma or equivalency required.
Must successfully complete a post offer employment test.
Must be able to pass a post-offer employment test and hold a valid driver’s license to obtain Wisconsin certification to drive University vehicles.

Responsibilities

Operate, complete safety inspections and road tests and otherwise maintain University and grounds maintenance vehicles and equipment including mowers, loaders, trucks, tractors, forklift, plows, sanders, salters, hand tools and related equipment in support of seasonal grounds maintenance activities.
Read and interpret drawings and parts manuals to identify and troubleshoot complex vehicle and large-engine issues and collaborate with mechanic with higher level maintenance and repair.
Documents completed maintenance and repairs according to established policies and procedures
Serves as a point of contact to individuals providing information and updates about vehicle and large-engine maintenance and repairs within the position’s purview.
Maintain turf, plants, trees including mowing, weeding, pruning, application of herbicides, etc. and lining of athletic fields as directed.
Install, assemble, maintain, and repair outdoor fixtures, furniture, equipment, and structures, including benches, picnic tables, bicycle racks, fencing, gates, retaining walls, and signage.
Install, assemble, maintain, and repair outdoor waste and recycling systems, including trash containers, recycling containers, and ash urns.
Maintain and repair irrigation systems, fountains, drainage systems, and related water infrastructure, and assist skilled trades with higher-level maintenance as needed.
Participate in inspection, maintenance, and corrective action of stormwater management systems and associated structures and maintain required records.
Inspect, repair, and perform preventive maintenance on sidewalks, streets, trails, parking lots, and curbs.
Establish and maintain preventive maintenance programs for equipment, including maintaining service records and documentation.
Order replacement parts and supplies, coordinate with vendors, and recommend equipment purchases.
Operate and maintain power tools and equipment, including pneumatic and electric tools such as drills, grinders, saws, impact tools, and presses.
Provide operation and safety training for equipment to Facilities Management employees and student workers and recommend safe and efficient work practices.
Be available as required for on-call emergency situations.
Inspects, maintains, and repairs complex parts and systems for large-engine vehicles and equipment under general supervision to ensure optimal and safe operation
Identifies and troubleshoots complex vehicle and large-engine issues and collaborates with work unit staff to resolve issues