Utility Mechanic Lead at Clemson University in Clemson, SC

Job description

JOB SUMMARY: Provides lead direction for a utilities distribution crew responsible for the installation, maintenance, repair, and emergency restoration of underground utility systems, including domestic water, chilled water, steam, natural gas, sanitary sewer, and stormwater infrastructure. Coordinates daily field activities, provides technical guidance to crew members, and supports construction and maintenance projects to ensure the safe, reliable operation of the University's utility systems. Performs other duties as assigned. JOB DUTIES: 10% Safety, Regulatory Compliance, Procurement and Administrative Management: Promotes a safe work environment by ensuring compliance with OSHA regulations, environmental requirements, University policies, and industry best practices. Conducts job hazard assessments, supports regulatory inspections, and maintains required operational and compliance documentation. Coordinates procurement activities by preparing material requisitions, obtaining purchase orders, researching and ordering materials, equipment, tools, and supplies required for utility maintenance, emergency repairs, and construction projects. Monitors inventory levels, assists with material planning, and ensures critical resources are available to support uninterrupted utility operations. Performs other related duties as assigned.

15% Utility System Planning, Asset Management, and Technical Support: Maintains working knowledge of the University's underground utility infrastructure, including utility records, engineering drawings, GIS mapping, and historical system information. Assists with documenting system changes, utility locating, infrastructure inspections, and updating utility asset records to support maintenance and capital improvement projects.

25% Jobsite, Maintenance, and Construction Management: Plans, coordinates, and oversees daily maintenance, repair, and utility construction activities. Organizes personnel, equipment, materials, and contractor resources to ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with University standards, applicable codes, and regulatory requirements. Provides construction support for campus utility expansion projects, including utility coordination, infrastructure inspections, utility locates, system tie-ins, and quality assurance.

20% Leadership, Work Coordination, Shop Management: Serves as lead technician by assigning daily work, coordinating field activities, monitoring work quality, mentoring employees, and providing technical guidance during maintenance, repair, and construction activities. Assists in developing employee knowledge through hands-on instruction and supports safe work practices across all utility distribution systems.

30% Utility Operations, Maintenance, and Emergency Response: Serves as lead technician by assigning daily work, coordinating field activities, monitoring work quality, mentoring employees, and providing technical guidance during maintenance, repair, and construction activities. Assists in developing employee knowledge through hands-on instruction and supports safe work practices across all utility distribution systems. JOB CODE: KC42 EMPLOYEE TYPE: Regular FTE Staff Minimum Requirements: A high school diploma and professional experience in building repairs and maintenance or in the specific area of assignment. Valid driver's license, CDL Class A or B Preferred Requirements: Associate degree or technical diploma in utilities, construction, mechanical systems, or related field. 5-7 years of experience (responsible or lead) in the operation, maintenance, repair, and construction of underground utility systems. RESPONSIBILITIES: JOB KNOWLEDGE Comprehensive knowledge of theories, concepts and practices and ability to use in complex, difficult and/or unprecedented situations. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES Supervises work of others and may offer recommendations for hiring, termination and pay adjustments but does