Job Summary

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for a Lead Plant Mechanic or Mechanic to join the Facilities Department. This is a regular, full-time, non-exempt position, and is eligible for benefits.

Reporting to the Lead Mechanic, this position assists with the planning and oversight of maintenance, repair, and installation work of all mechanical and related facility systems in Institution buildings and laboratories. The successful candidate will ensure safe and efficient scientific and administrative operations and maintenance, and that work is in accordance with appropriate building codes and safety regulations.

This role requires limited direction. Through training and/or work experience, the ideal candidate should be skilled in several trades, enabling the application of technical knowledge to perform assigned tasks independent of supervision. Unusual and unprecedented situations are reviewed with Plant Supervisor.

Acts for the Plant Supervisor in their absence.

Essential Functions

Mechanic:

• Constructs and/or repairs and installs mechanical equipment on board ships or in shore facilities such as engines, motors, pumps, winches, compressors, generators, and miscellaneous scientific devices.
• Work may also include activities in power transmission by hydraulic, mechanical or other means.
• Work may include incidental welding and brazing tasks and rigging for handling equipment and materials.
• Works with mechanic's hand and power tools, lathe, drill press, power saws, hydraulic press, hydraulic shear, welding equipment and tools, sheet metal tools, heavy equipment (fork lifts, crane cars, and overhead cranes), ships' machinery (cranes, engines, pumps, and generators), and small boats.

Lead Mechanic

• Routinely monitors the operations and maintenance of the following plant/building systems: heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration, plumbing, waste water treatment, processed sea water, pneumatic and electric/electronic controls and lab utilities (e.g., compressed air, gas and distilled water)
• Locates and diagnoses equipment failures, leaks and problem areas related to above systems. Independently and/or with assistance, is responsible for timely corrective action
• Coordinates plant/building maintenance and service needs with other Institution personnel (e.g., Shop, Services; scientific laboratories)
• Organizes, plans, and directs activities of Plant Mechanics and Senior Plant Mechanics. Contributes to the performance management and evaluation process of Plant staff in support of the Plant Supervisor, and identifies development opportunities.
• Participates in budget management of projects associated with area of responsibility
• Works collaboratively on major Institution construction and renovation projects and may recommend basic design changes and enhancements for optimal plan efficiency and service
• Coordinates construction, renovation and service requirements with outside contractors and technicians
• Performs routine building checks on weekends and holidays
• Responds to after-hour emergency calls for repairs, power outages, storm protection and snow removal
• Performs other such duties as the supervisor may, from time to time, deem necessary

Education & Experience

Mechanic

• High school or vocational school or equivalent training school in mechanical fields; 5 years experience in marine or related mechanical work.

Lead Mechanic

• Trade school certification or equivalent, representing demonstrated technical knowledge in several of the work areas, to include building costs and safety regulations related to the position or equivalent on-the-job training
• Minimum of 10 years directly related experience, including at least one of the following areas: experience in refrigeration equipment of 30-ton capacity or larger; and/or boiler and chiller experience for heating and cooling for commercial operations
• Must have demonstrated ability to exercise independent judgment as well as commitment to working collaboratively with colleagues
• Must have strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to lead projects and prioritize work
• Ability to handle administrative and financial aspects of the job

Special Requirements

• Must possess a valid MA trade license, i.e. electrical, plumbing, HVAC, etc.
• Valid MA driver's license
• Must be able to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card.

Physical Requirements

Physical duties for this position include but are not limited to, ability to lift above shoulders, 5 times per day; carry 50+ lbs, 5 times per day. Visual abilities to include peripheral, depth perception, and ability to distinguish basic colors. Hearing requirements include the ability to hear and respond to instructions, communicate effectively in loud areas (pier/dock, warehouse). Other physical tasks include frequent prolonged standing/walking; use of hands for basic /fine grasping and manipulation, bending, stooping, and climbing ladders/stools. Other occupational requirements include working around others, with others, and independently. Will be exposed to dust or other irritants, excessive cold, heat, or humidity, grease and oils, severe weather conditions, and prolonged work hours. Physical duties are subject to change.