Apprentice Plumbing Specialist

South Dakota State University is seeking an Apprentice Plumbing Specialist to help keep our campus operating at its best. We’re looking for someone who is eager to learn, and takes pride in craftsmanship, problem-solving, and quality work. In this role, you’ll support a wide range of plumbing projects that ensure our facilities remain safe, reliable, and fully functional. We provide the tools, training, and support you need to excel in your work and continue developing your skills in the plumbing trade.

This position is located in Brookings, South Dakota.

SDState is the state’s largest, most comprehensive university with over $84 million annual research expenditures, more than 200 academic programs and an enrollment of approximately 12,000 students. The university is part of a dynamic community for families, students, young professionals, and retirees, which offers an abundance of attractions and activities.

Facilities and Services is the internal department overseeing the growth, maintenance, repair and changes of the facilities, infrastructure and grounds of campus and satellite locations. Campus Maintenance staff has technical expertise in electrical, plumbing, HVAC, carpentry, welding, mechanics, building repair work, relocation, and grounds. Services include the operation, maintenance, repair and remodeling of university buildings and grounds and the operation and repair of certain types of equipment.

Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Assist with performing varied plumbing work;
Support maintenance and repair of all plumbing systems, including heating, cooling, domestic water, and sewer systems on campus and at local agricultural teaching/research sites;
Trench/excavate for underground plumbing; assist with remodel projects; install piping and or plumbing fixtures in buildings and outside; perform & assist with general building plumbing maintenance and service work; locate underground utilities.

SDState offers a wide range of excellent benefits including medical, dental, and flexible benefits, retirement plans, compensation packages, paid holidays, and vacation leave. We offer a generous retirement plan that includes 6% matching, 10 hours of annual leave each month, 9.34 hours of sick leave each month, and eleven paid holidays. Employees also have access to internal and state-sponsored training as well as reduced tuition for state-supported courses at all State of South Dakota academic institutions.

• Basic plumbing principles and techniques
• Basic construction practices preferred
• Knowledge of plumbing codes, regulations, and safety procedures preferred.

• Learn a variety of new information and skills quickly
• Read and understand construction and plumbing drawings or willingness to learn.
• Able to follow written and verbal instructions confidently and willing to ask clarifying questions when unsure how to proceed.
• Demonstrate critical thinking
• Able to work effectively in diverse environments and weather conditions, and capable of lifting and carrying up to 50 lbs.
• Collaborate effectively as a team player while maintaining a positive, can-do attitude as well as work independently with a high level of self-motivation
• Proficient in the safe and effective use of basic hand tools.
• Committed to working safely and following established safety procedures.
• Diploma in plumbing technology, pipe fitting, HVAC/R, or construction preferred.
• Associates degree or higher in building trades, mechanical systems, construction or similar preferred.

• Valid Driver’s License

Any offer of employment is contingent on the university’s verification of credentials and other…