Mechanic - Plumber

Mechanic - Plumber


Company
Columbia University
Location
New York, NY
Job Type
Full-time
Posted
5 days ago
Via
Careers At Columbia University - Columbia

Job Description
• Job Type: Support Staff - Union
• Bargaining Unit: TWU - B&G
• Regular/Temporary: Regular
• End Date if Temporary:
• Hours Per Week: 40
• Standard Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 4:30pm
• Building: MS General
• Salary Range: $33.72 - $42.15

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

Position Summary

The Mechanic is responsible for providing immediate and effective response to work assigned by supervisor, or by job order, and for ensuring that the work is completed in a good workmanship-like manner and that the physical condition of the building is safe and in good repair; ensure that all building certifications and licenses are properly displayed and updated; performs all duties of an Assistant Mechanic and Mechanic Trainee.

Responsibilities
• The Mechanic shall be skilled in the performance of all phases of repair and maintenance and shall demonstrate required knowledge and the safe use of equipment and tools.
• The Mechanic will have the ability to accurately read blueprints, schematics and diagrams.
• Works independently with complex building systems involving multidisciplinary skills without supervision.
• Must provide current and updated home telephone number.
• In accordance with the collective bargaining agreement, may be required to respond to any emergency on a 24-hour basis and may be required to work overtime.
• Basic knowledge in all areas and skills with a demonstrated proficiency in Preventive Maintenance and at least two of the following skills (Electrical, Plumbing, Carpentry).
• Assist in planning for maintenance repair.
• Conduct periodic inspections of individual rooms and common areas to report maintenance needs.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of daily assignments and follow work order process.
• Effectively perform duties as required by operating and computerized management systems.
• Recommends products and equipment to be used on assigned jobs, as requested by supervisor.
• Participate in implementation of preventive maintenance programs and in the development and application of standards of quality and productivity for the facilities.
• Maintain records to ensure routine compliance with all applicable codes and regulations.
• Order supplies according to established procedures.
• Assist in evaluating new equipment for purchase.
• Calculate quantity of materials needed and requisition all supplies.
• Perform all related duties, as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications
• High school diploma, GED or equivalent.
• Satisfactory passing of applicable tests.
• Three years of experience in trades and/or technical discipline, or satisfactory completion of university approved training program, or successful completion of University Mechanic Training Program.

Preferred Qualifications
• Must have all applicable licenses and permits.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, regulations, operating and maintenance instructions, blueprints, schematics, diagrams and procedure manuals.
• Ability to prepare routine reports and correspondence.
• Ability to interpret and follow instructions in written, oral, diagrammatic or schedule form.
• Ability to define problems, collects data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions.
• Ability to interpret technical instructions necessary to carry out the above duties and skills.
• The incumbent must be able to perform duties on ladders and scaffolding, indoors and outdoors as well as lifting a maximum of 50 lbs. and moving heavier objects with assisted devices.
• The work environment includes working near or with moving mechanical parts, chemicals and electrical equipment.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Plumber Jobs

Q What is the 2026 median hourly wage for licensed plumbers in the United States including overtime?
As per the U.S. Department of Labor, the median hourly wage for plumbers in the United States is $31.45 as of May 2026 with overtime paid at 1.5 times the regular rate after 40 hours. The 10th percentile earns $19.80 per hour and the 90th percentile earns $48.20 per hour under the Fair Labor Standards Act.
Q What work visa is required for foreign plumbers to work legally in the United States in 2026?
As per U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, foreign plumbers must obtain an H-2B visa for non-agricultural temporary work with a maximum of 66,000 visas issued annually for fiscal year 2026. Applicants need a certified temporary labor certification from the Department of Labor valid for up to 10 months.
Q What education and experience are required to qualify for plumber jobs in the United States in 2026?
As per the U.S. Department of Labor, plumbers need a high school diploma or equivalent plus completion of a 4-5 year apprenticeship program with 8,000-10,000 hours of paid on-the-job training. Most states require 2 years of experience before taking the journeyman licensing exam.
Q What documents are needed to apply for a plumber position through official U.S. government channels in 2026?
As per the U.S. Department of Labor, applicants must submit a completed ETA-9089 form for permanent labor certification, proof of apprenticeship completion, and a valid state plumbing license. Additional documents include Form I-9 for employment eligibility and W-4 for tax withholding.
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