Iowa State

Facilities Mechanic III

Ames, IA Full time

Position Title:

Facilities Mechanic III

Job Group:

Merit

Required Minimum Qualifications:

• Must possess a basic knowledge of plumbing, electricity, maintenance of steam and mechanical equipment. • Must have four years of work experience in the listed crafts, including apprenticeship or technical training. • At least two years of that experience must be in the same craft.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience installing, maintaining, or repairing commercial kitchen equipment (ranges, ovens, refrigerators, dishwashers, disposals, water heaters)
License at journeyman level in one or more areas of electrical, plumbing, or heating, ventilation and air conditioning.
Proven electrical troubleshooting or maintenance experience, including lighting, outlets, switches, and GFCI devices
Experience with plumbing repairs, piping, valves, and fixtures in a commercial or institutional setting
Prior work on mechanical systems such as steam, chilled water, or HVAC equipment, including installation, maintenance, or repair

Job Description:

Step into a Facilities Mechanic III at Iowa State University role supporting numerous ISU Dining facilities across campus. You’ll work behind the scenes in high-volume kitchens, markets, cafés, and production spaces, keeping essential equipment and utility systems operating reliably.

As a Facilities Mechanic III, you will conduct preventive maintenance, perform emergency repairs, and inspect various systems and components to determine their functional status. You'll also have the opportunity to mentor and coach other technicians, maintain compliance with safety procedures, and assist with project management. This position is perfect for someone with a broad skill set in multiple trades and a dedication to keeping our facilities in top condition.

What You’ll Do

  • Install, maintain, and repair commercial kitchen equipment including ranges, ovens, refrigerators, dishwashers, disposals, and water-heating systems

  • Perform electrical service tasks such as lighting repairs, outlet and switch replacement, and GFCI components

  • Diagnose and repair plumbing fixtures, leaking lines, and waste-system issues

  • Complete daily work orders, preventive maintenance, and urgent repairs across dining facilities

  • Support mechanical, HVAC, carpentry, plumbing, and electrical needs that keep food-service operations functioning smoothly

  • Maintain utility systems including hydronic piping, steam components, chilled water, gas lines, valves, and HVAC units

  • Use TMA, Metasys, and related tools to track, document, and complete work

  • Assist with facility improvements and safety-related repairs

What You’ll Get

  • Insurance benefits (medical, dental, and vision) starting on your first day—with timely enrollment

  • Competitive retirement options with generous university contributions

  • Free meal with every shift

  • Paid time off, sick leave, and holiday pay – Enjoy Holidays OFF!

  • Consistent, full-time schedule with daytime hours to support work-life balance

  • Steady work that supports the campus community

Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities

  • Performs preventive maintenance on motors, pumps, and other equipment, and maintains appropriate records.

  • Troubleshoot problems and provide support across campus.

  • Performs preventive maintenance on boilers, furnaces, and other equipment.

  • Performs preventive maintenance and emergency repair work on.

  • Reads and interprets blueprints, diagrams, and equipment specifications.

  • Performs work in related crafts areas as assigned.

  • Assists in directing the work of others.

  • Assist in preventative maintenance of facilities conditions, and makes recommendations for corrections.

  • Performs day to day maintenance of electrical, mechanical, plumbing, heating and ventilation systems.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Knowledge of the hazards involved and safety precautions necessary in the electrical, mechanical and plumbing trades.

  • Knowledge of work practices, methods, and processes utilized in the electrical, mechanical and plumbing trade.

  • Knowledge of preventive maintenance necessary for equipment and ability to maintain appropriate records.

  • Knowledge of proper lifting and bending techniques.

  • Ability to operate safely the tools and equipment used in the electrical, mechanical and plumbing trades.

  • Ability to interpret blueprints, diagrams and equipment specifications.

  • Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions.

  • Ability to work in a variety of environments including confined spaces, low light areas, at heights, with exposure to temperature extremes.

  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Appointment Type:

Regular

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

12 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Full time

Pay Grade:

5311a

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application.

Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

  • Resume

  • Cover Letter


If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Why Choose ISU?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:

  • Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans

  • Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans

  • Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)

  • Life insurance and long-term disability

  • Flexible Spending Accounts

  • Various voluntary benefits and discounts

  • Employee Assistance Program

  • Wellbeing program

Original Posting Date:

March 5, 2026

Posting Close Date:

March 15, 2026

Job Requisition Number:

R18745