Facility Maintenance Lead, Carvel Research and Education Center

Facility Maintenance Lead, Carvel Research and Education Center

Apply now Job no: 502599
College / VP Area: College of Ag & Natural Res
Work type: Staff
Location: Georgetown, DE
Categories: Facilities Management, Full Time

Under the direction of the Carvel Research and Education Center Director, the Facility Maintenance Lead oversees and coordinates the safe and efficient operation and maintenance of the Carvel building(s), including the electrical distribution system, HVAC, plumbing, and building control systems. The position performs master’s level electrical maintenance and building control work, inspects, maintains, and repairs equipment in supporting offices, laboratory, greenhouses, and farm research operations.

The emphasis is on preventive and corrective maintenance techniques to ensure reliability and minimize downtime. This role manages maintenance of elevators, emergency generators, transformers, uninterrupted power supplies, motor control centers, building and exterior lighting, water supply, fire protection systems, laboratory freezers, and related contract services. The Facility Maintenance Lead supervises and coordinates technical and custodial staff, applies independent judgment to prioritize concurrent tasks, and may assist with grounds maintenance as needed.

• Install and conduct preventive maintenance on pumps, motors, generators, air compressors, fans, air conditioning and heating equipment and refrigeration systems.
• Monitor building control systems using remote and on-site technology to anticipate breakdowns and ensure facilities are operational at all times.
• Monitor and maintain optimum performance of electrical services, digitally controlled electronics devices, high and low voltage distribution systems, elevators, and related services.
• Perform inspection maintenance and repair work on primary distribution and emergency power systems including 480V 3 phase supplies for irrigation systems.
• Maintain and troubleshoot electrical equipment, motors, belts, pulleys, valves, fans, condensers, evaporator coils, etc.
• Identify, analyze and implement cost‑effective resolutions for routine replacing lamps, receptacles, breakers and chronic non‑routine maintenance problems.
• Maintain ice machines, water baths, air pumps, heat exchangers and cooling and heating equipment, water purification system and LP gas units.
• Inspect and test maintenance machinery and equipment for good running operation; repair units as needed; order parts, anticipate and stock major components to maximize uptime.
• Oversee and advise staff on safety issues and practices, ensure proper training of all personnel, including the use of personal protective equipment such as rated voltage gloves, hearing protection, safety eyewear, safety inspections, and emergency response plans.
• Estimate material and worker requirements to complete assigned jobs. Assist in budget projections, budget preparation and departmental planning for area of responsibility. Monitor work activities and expenditures to control costs.
• Schedule elevator inspections and repairs.
• Manage equipment‑related changes to ensure NEC compliance.
• Identify changes in the NEC and identify the impact it may have on the facility.
• Maintain building inspection frequency as directed by the Fire Marshal.
• Manage the generator repair contractor, completing routine monthly inspections.
• Maintain POC during emergencies concerning the elevators and generators.
• Assist and advise faculty, staff and students with electrical, heating and cooling requirements for research.
• Schedule preventive maintenance, keep service records and maintain time sheets for custodial staff.
• Maintain and update required reports, manuals, schematics and other systems‑related documentation.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

The physical environment requires the employee to work both inside and outside in heat/cold, wet/humid and dry/arid conditions. Frequently required to use personal protective equipment to prevent exposure to hazardous materials.

• Bachelor’s degree and four years of related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience (minimum eight years total).
• Valid Delaware…