Careers

About UMass Amherst

The flagship of the Commonwealth, the University of Massachusetts Amherst is a nationally ranked public land-grant research university that seeks to expand educational access, fuel innovation and creativity, and share and use its knowledge for the common good. Founded in 1863, UMass Amherst sits on nearly 1,450-acres in scenic Western Massachusetts and boasts state-of-the-art facilities for teaching, research, scholarship, and creative activity. The institution advances a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community where everyone feels connected and valued—and thrives, and offers a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees across 10 schools and colleges, and 100 undergraduate majors. We believe every member of our university community can contribute to our ongoing success by striving for the highest level of excellence as we seek breakthrough solutions to mounting environmental, social, economic, and technological challenges in our world.   

Job Summary

The Campus Master Plumber/Plumbing Manager will be responsible for the oversight, management, and coordination of all plumbing activities across the university campus with relevant authorities. This role entails ensuring the efficient operation, maintenance, and repair of the campus plumbing infrastructure, while also adhering to all safety standards and local regulations. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, extensive knowledge of plumbing systems, and the ability to effectively manage a team of skilled plumbing professionals and contractors.

Essential Functions

• Supervise and lead a team of plumbing professionals, including scheduling, training, and performance evaluation.
• Manage and coordinate all plumbing maintenance and repair tasks across the university campus, including emergency and routine services.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety protocols and regulations, including OSHA standards and local and State plumbing codes.
• Oversee the installation, repair, and maintenance of plumbing fixtures, equipment, and infrastructure, both above and below ground.
• Collaborate with relevant campus departments and external contractors to plan and execute plumbing-related projects and renovations.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive plumbing maintenance schedules and records, including documentation of repairs, inspections, and upgrades.
• Conduct regular inspections of the campus plumbing systems to identify potential issues and implement preventive maintenance measures.
• Manage the procurement of plumbing supplies, equipment, and materials, ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality.
• Provide guidance and expertise on plumbing-related matters to campus staff, faculty, and students.
• Prepare and manage the departmental budget, including cost estimation, expenditure tracking, and resource allocation for plumbing operations.
• Collaborate with relevant campus departments to prioritize plumbing projects that enhance sustainability and energy efficiency.
• Perform other duties as required by Management.
• Work with union officials to maintain a harmonious relationship. Act as a mediator during conflicts and represent the department in grievance procedures and arbitrations.
• Develop and implement strategies for emergency response procedures, including disaster preparedness and rapid repair during critical incidents.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement in plumbing maintenance and operations, seeking innovative solutions and best practices.
• Keep abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes that may impact plumbing systems, and provide recommendations for updates and improvements.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)

• Must possess a Valid Massachusetts Master Plumber license issued by the state regulatory authority.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in managing large-scale plumbing operations, preferably in an educational or institutional setting.
• In-depth knowledge of plumbing systems, equipment, and materials, as well as an understanding of building codes and regulations.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Proven experience in budget management, procurement, and resource allocation.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment, handling multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously.
• Proficiency in using relevant computer software and applications for plumbing management and documentation.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills, with the ability to analyze complex plumbing issues and provide effective solutions.
• Effective project management skills, with a track record of successful project completion within scope, budget, and timeline.
• Demonstrated commitment to ongoing professional development and training in the field of plumbing and related technologies.
• Valid Class D Driver’s License.

Preferred Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or related field.

Physical Demands/ Working Conditions

Ability to drive to work sites.

Work Schedule

Mon-Fri 7AM-3PM

Additional Details

• This position is essential.  This includes the obligation to work overtime, to return to work between scheduled shifts when directed, and to report to work during any delays, early departures, and closures.  It is your responsibility to update the service desk with your current phone numbers.
• Certificate in Supervisory Leadership Development issued by the UMA within 1 year of appointment.

Salary Information

Level 30

PSU Hiring Ranges

Special Instructions to Applicants

Please complete the application in full and provide a resume and cover letter. Three professional references are required.