UChicago

Central Utility Plants Maintenance Mechanic

Chicago, IL Full time

Department

OPS Facilities Central Utility Plant Shop


About the Department

Facilities Services supports the mission of the University of Chicago through efforts to maintain and enhance the University campus and environment and provide superior client service to our community including faculty, students, staff, neighbors and visitors.


Job Information

Job Summary:

Repairs and maintains equipment and mechanical equipment such as engines, motors, pneumatic tools and auxiliary equipment located in the Central Plant and distribution system.  Performs work in accordance with University standards and procedures.

Responsibilities:

  • Troubleshoots equipment and identifies and solves problems.  Observes mechanical devices in operation and listens to their sounds to locate causes of trouble.

  • Operates welding equipment to cut or weld parts, fabricate, repair leaks, and install pipe.

  • Dismantles pressure vessels to gain access, removes parts, and performs maintenance and inspections. 

  • Dismantles boiler internals and cleans boiler tubes and boiler drums.  Dismantles deaerator tank, condensate return tanks, inspects and cleans.

  • Lubricates and cleans parts.

  • Guides the activities of assigned maintenance personnel.

  • Helps introduce new employees to shop protocol, procedures and campus applications and equipment.

  • Requisitions materials and supplies using in-house procedures. Keeps working area safe and clean.

  • Performs job-related duties as may be assigned.

Additional Responsibilities

Education, Experience, or Certifications:

Education:

  • High school diploma or GED from an accredited institution required.

Experience:

  • Four years related experience, or an equivalent combination of position-related education and experience required. 

Certifications:

  • Current valid driver's license and successfully complete the University's Motor Vehicle Records background check process is required.

  • City of Chicago Stationary Engineer’s License or must obtain within one year of employment.

  • Welding Certification in accordance with the standards established by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) preferred.

  • Certification in one or more of the following preferred– heating and ventilation, basic electrical, pipefitting and fluid-handling systems, building automation systems, or an encompassing certification such as in physical plant maintenance.

Technical Knowledge or Skills:

  • Demonstrated ability to access computer programs and use or learn basic computer operations related to position requirements required. 

  • Demonstrated ability to read and interpret documents required.

  • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing required.

  • Demonstrated ability to perform mathematical functions relevant to the position required.

  • Demonstrated ability to problem solve required.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements:

  • Must demonstrate mechanical aptitude and manual dexterity and be physically capable of strenuous activity over extended periods of time.

  • Must be able to lift and move loads appropriate to job requirements and be able to bend and work in a kneeling position for periods of time. Wears and/or uses appropriate safety equipment.

  • Must be able to climb stairs and ladders, be capable of working at heights as required, be able to enter and work within tight spaces, and be able to withstand hot and cold temperatures.

  • Undertakes training related to job duties as deemed necessary by the University.

Pay Range:

  • $51.11 per hour

Required Documents:

  • Resume

  • Cover Letter

  • List of References


When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.


Benefit Eligibility

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off.


Pay Rate Type

Hourly


Pay Range

$43.44 - $51.11

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.


Scheduled Weekly Hours

40


Union

042 - Local 73, S.E.I.U. Skilled Trades - Real Estate Operations


Job is Exempt

No


Drug Test Required

No


Health Screen Required

No


Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

Yes


Posting Date

2026-03-02


Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

 

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

 

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.  A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment.  Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.