Mechanic - Plumber

New York, United States
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 in United States

Q
What is the median salary for plumbers in the United States in 2026?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters as $61,550 ($29.59 per hour) based on May 2023 data applicable through 2026. Entry-level positions start at $39,020 annually ($18.76 per hour), while top earners make $101,910 ($48.99 per hour). Mean wages are $65,790 annually ($31.63 per hour).
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Q
What work visa is required for foreign plumbers to work in the US in 2026?
Foreign plumbers qualify for H-2B temporary non-agricultural worker visas when US employers demonstrate temporary labor shortages; the FY2026 statutory cap is 66,000 visas. Employers must obtain DOL temporary labor certification and file USCIS Form I-129 with supporting job order details. Visa validity is up to 1 year, extendable to 3 years maximum.
Source: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Q
What education and experience are needed to start as a plumber in the US with no background?
A high school diploma or GED and being at least 18 years old qualify applicants for registered apprenticeship programs lasting 4 to 5 years. These programs include 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training and 144 hours of related technical instruction annually. No prior experience is required, but mechanical aptitude is tested.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Q
What documents are required to apply for plumber apprenticeship programs in the US?
Applicants must submit a high school diploma or GED, proof of age (18+ via birth certificate or ID), Social Security card, and driver's license or state ID. Some programs require a pre-apprenticeship drug test and physical exam results. Applications go through DOL-registered sponsors found on Apprenticeship.gov.
Source: U.S. Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship