Mechanic - Plumber

Mechanic - Plumber

New York, United States

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.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Plumber Jobs in United States

Q What is the median salary range for plumber jobs in the United States in 2026?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters at $61,550 ($29.59 per hour) as of May 2023 data guiding 2026 employment. The lowest 10 percent earned $39,020 annually, while the highest 10 percent earned $99,410. Overtime pay at 1.5 times the rate for hours over 40 per week boosts total earnings by $10,000-$20,000 yearly for many.
Q What visa is required for foreign workers seeking plumber jobs in the United States?
USCIS requires an H-2B visa for temporary non-agricultural plumber jobs when U.S. workers are unavailable, with employers obtaining DOL temporary labor certification first. The FY2026 H-2B cap is 66,000 visas (33,000 per half-year), plus up to 64,716 supplemental for returning workers. Prevailing wage minimum is $30.50 per hour nationally for Level II plumbers.
Q What education and experience are needed to qualify as a plumber in the United States?
A high school diploma or equivalent is required to enter a plumber apprenticeship program registered with DOL. Programs last 4 years, including 8,000 hours of paid on-the-job training and 576 hours of classroom instruction. No prior experience is needed for entry-level positions.
Q What is the application process and required documents for plumber apprenticeships in the United States?
Apply through DOL-registered sponsors listed on apprenticeship.gov by submitting a high school diploma or GED, government-issued ID, Social Security number, and proof of age 18 or older. The process includes an aptitude test, math assessment, and interview within 30 days of application. Selected apprentices start at 40-50% of journeyman wage, increasing annually.
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