Maine Apprenticeship Program- Plumber

Position

Purpose:

Bates College is partnering with Educate Maine to offer a registered apprenticeship program for individuals looking to gain experience and build a career in facilities maintenance as a Plumber. This is a full-time, year-round position in which apprentices are paid employees of Bates College. Opportunities to work part-time during the school year and full time upon graduation may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Those who successfully complete their apprenticeship will continue their employment at Bates College as an experienced plumber and will have completed the requirements set by the applicable state board and may sit for the State Journeyman test.

Preliminary Work:

• Identifies, sizes, and determines the designed use of various pipes.
• Correctly and safely uses all hand and power tools of the trade.
• Manages spare parts and inventory control.
• Completes various onboarding activities, including the following trainings: standard departmental safety, computer security, anti-discrimination, and other Bates workplace policies and procedures.

Safety Policies and Procedures:

• Correctly performs Lockout Tag Out procedures.
• Understands and follows Ladder Safety protocols.
• Understands and follows Burn Permitting protocols.
• Understands and interprets standard plumbing symbols used in commercial plumbing plans and diagrams.
• Locates various plan details and schedules and understands their purpose.
• Understands the layout and installation of plumbing pipe systems, supports, and related equipment according to digital or printed plans.
• Understands and installs copper, black, no-hub and plastic pipe & fittings.
• Understands and installs domestic water services, Pressure Reducing Valves (PRV), thermostatic mixing valves, eye wash/shower stations, vacuum breakers, air gaps, and backflow devices.
• Understands, identifies, and utilizes rough-in vent systems, drainage, and supply lines.

Installation of Plumbing Fixtures, Maintenance and Repair:

• Installs, performs routine maintenance on, and repairs bathroom fixtures.
• Installs, performs routine maintenance on, and repairs kitchen fixtures.
• Identifies and repairs leaks.
• Installs, performs routine maintenance on, and repairs laundry.
• Installs press fittings and correctly utilizes Cross-Linked Polyethylene pipe systems.
• Correctly demonstrates and utilizes soft solder and brazing techniques.

Heating System Design, Function and Repair:

• Understands the operation and flow of common hydronic layouts and pumping.
• Understands the operation and repair of radiation terminal units, fan Coils, unit heaters, and thermostatic control valves.
• Understands the operation and flow of low pressure steam systems.
• Understands operation and performs minor repairs of steam traps and Pressure Reducing Valves (PRV).
• Understands the operation of heat exchangers and controls.
• Understands the operation of thermostats and buildings automation controls.
• Demonstrates knowledge and ability to service and maintain.

Specialized Systems and Equipment:

• Understands operation and performs minor service of Snow melt systems.
• Understands the operation of reverse osmosis and softener water systems.
• Understands operation and performs minor service of commercial kitchen equipment.

Education

To be eligible to participate in the Bates College Plumber Apprentice program, candidates must,

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Already possess a degree in Plumbing and Heating Technology from Central Maine Community College or another institution within the Maine Community College System.
• Be able to complete a standard pre-employment physical and background check.

Experience

In accordance with the Registered Apprenticeship Standards, each apprentice shall complete a minimum of 930-960 seat hours (62-64 credit hours) of classroom instruction and 2000 hours of on the job learning instruction under a Journeyman or Master Plumber. Classroom training and curriculum will be provided by Central Maine Community College or another institution within the Maine Community College System.

Skills and Knowledge

• Commitment to equity and inclusion, and serving the needs of a culturally and educationally diverse community.
• Capable and willing to accept open and honest feedback throughout the apprenticeship.
• Display a positive attitude and be able to work well with others.
• Listen and be able to follow directions/instructions.

Bates College offers competitive salaries, excellent benefits (health, dental, 9% retirement contribution with potential for an additional 3% match, 10 days of vacation*, 13 paid holidays, free parking, access to library and athletic facilities & more), and a supportive, collegial environment in a drug- and smoke-free workplace.

Bates College is committed to the principle of equal opportunity and providing an educational and work environment free from discrimination. The college prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation,…