Utilities Distribution Specialist

Job Description

Reporting to the Utilities Distribution Supervisor, and working in a multi-discipline environment, this specialist role will install, maintain, and repair critical infrastructure including chilled water lines, steam lines, valves, traps, domestic water, storm drains, sewer lines, pumps, fans, and fire hydrants with a high degree of accuracy required. Performs steamfitter work at a specialized and skilled level. This team as a whole is responsible for a large utility distribution that consists of steam tunnels and works diligently for the entire Virginia Tech Blacksburg Campus.

• Assist with troubleshooting, repair, maintenance, and installation of steam lines, chilled water lines, and instruments.
• Perform installations or replacements of water, storm, sanitary sewer, steam, heating hot water, condensate, chilled water piping systems, and related equipment.
• Work around high (12.47 kV) and low (600 V) voltage electrical distribution systems in tunnels as required.
• Read and interpret construction documents and shop drawings.
• Promote responsibility and efficient work among team members by giving clear and descriptive instructions.
• Develop knowledge of materials and equipment used on utility projects.
• Work individually or as part of a team to execute repairs or installations.
• Operate heavy equipment such as excavators, backhoes, trenchers, line/service trucks, fork trucks, horizontal boring machines, and other related equipment for utilities system installation and maintenance.
• Diagnose utility distribution system problems and perform repairs as required.
• Layout piping systems and install pipe fitting in compliance with codes and construction documents.
• Perform general service work on mechanical equipment including maintenance, lubrication, and replacement of system components.
• Serve in the absence of a Utilities Distribution Lead as needed.

• Proficiency in using diverse hand and power tools pertaining to the plumbing trade, including pipe threading machines, torches, drills, rotary hammers, and sewer cleaners.
• Commercial Driver’s License with Class B endorsements and a valid DOT medical certification.
• Ability to safely move and handle heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds alone, and/or up to an estimated 100 pounds with assistance.
• Ability to maneuver materials up and down stairs, climb and work from elevated workstations such as ladders and scaffolds, work for long periods standing, walking, sitting, reaching, bending, and pushing/pulling.
• Ability to safely work in designated confined spaces (training provided) and all types of weather conditions, including extreme temperatures.
• Designated emergency personnel position, may be required to work additional hours/shifts to meet university needs. Major emergencies/outages require employees to report to work.
• Demonstrated general construction experience.
• Familiarity with operating heavy equipment.
• General knowledge of using a computer for basic functions such as Microsoft Outlook.

• Experience at the journeyman level in general plumbing.
• Demonstrated experience steam fitting.
• Previous experience in industrial, commercial, or institutional building plumbing, and piping installation and maintenance.
• Experience operating equipment such as backhoes, mini-excavators, and forklifts.
• Knowledge of steam distribution systems.
• Experience with commercial/industrial distributions.
• Experience reading and interpreting written instructions, blueprints, and schematic drawings.
• Some experience or knowledge of handling utility locate requests, such as from Miss Utility.
• Familiarity with working around low and high‑voltage areas to maintain and repair mechanical utilities systems.
• Experience in a multi‑trade, multi‑disciplined environment.
• Safety training includes chain saw safety, confined space entry, electrical qualified person, excavation qualified person, fall hazard awareness, fall protection user, first aid/CPR/AED, hazcom RTK, hearing conservation, hotline hold tags, ladder safety, lockout/tagout authorized person, mobile crane safety, personal protective equipment training, portable fire extinguisher training,…