Job no: 526960 Work type: Staff Full Time Location: UMass Amherst Department: Building Maintenance Union: AFSCME Categories: Facilities/Grounds, AFSCME A About UMass Amherst The flagship of the Commonwealth, the University of Massachusetts Amherst is a nationally ranked public land-grant research university that seeks to expand educational access, fuel innovation and creativity, and share and use its knowledge for the common good. Founded in 1863, UMass Amherst sits on nearly 1,450-acres in scenic Western Massachusetts and boasts state-of-the-art facilities for teaching, research, scholarship, and creative activity. The institution advances a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community where everyone feels connected and valued—and thrives, and offers a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees across 10 schools and colleges, and 100 undergraduate majors. We believe every member of our university community can contribute to our ongoing success by striving for the highest level of excellence as we seek breakthrough solutions to mounting environmental, social, economic, and technological challenges in our world. Job Summary Installs, maintains, operates, repairs and/or initiates repairs on building systems such as, but not limited to, clock systems, card access systems, security systems, fire alarm systems, communication equipment, and their related devices and performs other related work as required. Employing the use of specialized testing and monitoring, diagnostic equipment; works synchronously with Contractors, Engineers, Control Technicians, etc. maintaining the building systems integrity. Exercises functional supervision of other employees of lower grade performing related repair and maintenance activities. Essential Functions • Inspects, maintains, repairs Campus Card Access, Fire Alarm Systems, Security Systems and their related components, including but not limited to, electric controls, electro-mechanical controls, and computer software programs. Instructs, advises, and mentors employees and technicians in the operation and maintenance of the above systems. • Acts as a first responder inspecting, testing, trouble shooting, repairing and initiating repairs on Fire Alarm Systems, Card Access Systems, Security Systems to Federal, state and local codes. This requires using electrical testing, electronic testing, and micro-processor diagnostic equipment. Interacts with contractors and campus customers relating to the operation, maintenance and repair of various security, fire alarm, clock controls systems and related HVAC control components. • Provides preventive maintenance services, complying with Federal, state, and local codes on electric, electronic, and electro-mechanical controls. Documents work performed in the equipment maintenance history file. Utilizes computer programs that operate, maintain, and adjust building fire alarm security and card access systems. • Maintains and develops operational, procedural and emergency response standards for the Security System, Card Access, Fire Alarm Systems, and their related equipment. Provides timely systems failure notification and repair response, minimizing equipment down time. This requires using micro-processor and diagnostic equipment. • Assists Engineering staff in drawing reviews, inspections, and troubleshooting as part of the commissioning of a new Security System, Card Access, and Fire Alarm System, respective equipment, upgrades and equipment replacement, and associated software support. • Drives a motorize vehicle around campus to various campus buildings. • Identifies door access calls and determines if it is mechanical or electrical. • Drill or cut holes through floors, walls, or ceilings containing asbestos in performance of work assignments. • May exercise functional supervision over employees of a lower grade • Practices and promotes excellent customer service in the workplace and exhibits a clear commitment to the diverse needs of customers. Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure) • Current, valid Massachusetts Master, Journeyman, Systems Contractor or Systems Technician Electrical License. • Possession and maintenance of a current, valid Class D Driver’s License. • Asbestos Abatement worker CERT. (within six (6) months of date of hire). • Department of Public Safety Certificate of Clearance. • Achieve C-Cure training (within one (1) year of date of hire). • Basic knowledge of the Fire Alarm, Security and Card Access Systems. • Ability to provide off-shift coverage as requested. • Thorough knowledge of fundamental principles of electricity and of electronics. • Considerable knowledge of the principles, methods, techniques, practices, materials and tools used in the Security Systems, Card Access and Fire Alarm trade. • Working knowledge of Massachusetts Electrical & NFPA Codes and their applications. • Working knowledge of the general and unique hazard and safety precautions associated with the Electrical, Fire Alarm, Security and Card Access trades. • Ability to read, interpret and work from plans, sketches and oral instructions. • Ability to make basic assessments of time and materials required to work assignments. • Ability to stand and work for long periods of time in enclosed, hot, moist spaces, work with a respirator on, climb ladders and work from scaffolding. • Ability to supervise and instruct helpers in Security System, Fire Alarm System, and Card Access tasks. • Ability to maintain accurate records, logs, etc. • Skill and knowledge to interpret blueprints, schematics, elementary diagrams, logic diagrams associated with Security Systems, Fire Alarm Systems, Card Access Systems; the ability to generate, implement, understand and respond to verbal and written instructions. • Knowledge of safety practices, preventive maintenance practices and the operation of standard testing equipment. • Ability to frequently lift and carry objects of 50-75 lbs. • Skill in using the hand, power and measurement tools of the trade. • Skill and ability to work independently and with others • Experience with computer programs, such as word processing and spreadsheets. • Ability to learn and use new programs (i.e. Card Access & Tririga), and to change systems programming as required. Additional Details This is a maintenance function, which includes overtime, returning to work between shifts when directed or called. It is your responsibility to update the service desk with your current phone number. Work Schedule Tuesday-Saturday; 3pm-11pm Salary Information Special Recruitment Rate: Grade 17, Step 6. Special Instructions to Applicants Along with the application, please submit a resume. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references. The University of Massachusetts Amherst welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti-discrimination laws. Advertised: Apr 24 2025 Eastern Daylight Time Applications close: Jul 25 2025 Eastern Daylight Time
See More Details >>About UMass Amherst The flagship of the Commonwealth, the University of Massachusetts Amherst is a nationally ranked public land-grant research university that seeks to expand educational access, fuel innovation and creativity, and share and use its knowledge for the common good. Founded in 1863, UMass Amherst sits on nearly 1,450-acres in scenic Western Massachusetts and boasts state-of-the-art facilities for teaching, research, scholarship, and creative activity. The institution advances a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community where everyone feels connected and valued—and thrives, and offers a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees across 10 schools and colleges, and 100 undergraduate majors. We believe every member of our university community can contribute to our ongoing success by striving for the highest level of excellence as we seek breakthrough solutions to mounting environmental, social, economic, and technological challenges in our world. Job Summary Operate, maintain, and repair the campus 115,000 high voltage power distribution system, exterior lighting system, and related equipment. Essential Functions • Tests, repairs, or replaces insulators, conductors, transformers, fuses, disconnects, and lightning arresters. • Makes standard types of transformer connections. • Assembles, disassembles, and maintains major rotating equipment such as synchronous condensers, motors, and generators. • Installs and repairs switchboard wiring and controls, major devices, and equipment, complicated wiring relaying, and control circuits using plans and drawings as required. • Diagnoses and repairs trouble relating to assignments. • Assembles, disassembles, and rebuilds power circuit breakers, voltage regulators, and power and distribution transformer. • Installs new construction for all voltage classifications. • Performs unusual work where no standard methods or specific directions are available. • Performs all types of cable cutover and transfer work. • Arranges and lays out cable equipment and bus installations in manholes and vaults. • Makes standard types of splices and pothead installations in any positions. • Uses distribution live line tools (for 13,800 volts, 2,400 volts and 115,000 volts). • Instructs and provides technical guidance to lower level line personnel. • May exercise functional supervision to 1-5 employees on a project by project basis. • Performs construction work in accordance with safe procedures and using work orders and drawings. • Locates, diagnoses, and repairs fault conditions on the electrical high voltage distribution, exterior lighting, and traffic signal systems. • Performs work required for service restoration under storm and emergency conditions. • Performs switching operations on electrical systems as directed. • Performs operations in unattended substations as directed and in accordance with existing practices. • Installs working grounds as directed or as required by the safety manual. • Interprets circuit maps, work orders and electrical diagrams. • Works on live electrical circuits up to 115,000 volts while wearing and/or applying the proper insulating equipment. • Selects and installs appropriate rubber protective equipment on energized conductors and apparatus. • Performs all types of rigging associated with removal and installation of transformers, switchgear, street lights, utility poles, and related appurtenances. • Installs all types of electrical bus works and makes electrical connections on copper or aluminum cables and bus work including the connection of dissimilar metals. • Operates various vehicles associated with line work (e.g. bucket trucks, pole diggers, corner mounts and wire running equipment). • Verifies ''Dig Safe” requests for planned excavations. • Performs transmission switch orders by Convex and distribution switching operations on electrical systems as directed. • Applies Convex and UMass protective switching and tagging procedures. • Performs monthly maintenance inspections on 115,000 volt substation. • Performs core drilling. • Performs work in confined space areas. Other Functions Performs other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure) • Minimum of three (3) years’ experience working on construction or maintenance of electrical utility systems (up to 115,000 volts). • Documented proof of High Voltage Safety Training. • OSHA 10 Card. • Massachusetts Journeyman or Master Electrician License required at hire. • Hoisting License -Class 3A required at hire. • Knowledge of standard cable practices. • Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of 115,000 volt outside electrical distribution systems including underground cables, oil and dry transformers, switches, vaults, and sub-transmission lines. • Considerable knowledge of the hazards and safety precautions peculiar to working with 13,800 volts, 2,400 volts, and 115,000 volts systems. • Considerable knowledge of the Massachusetts Electric Code. • Skill in working with the tools and equipment used in the electrical utility trade. • Ability to work from drawings and diagrams and from oral and written instructions. • Ability to detect and locate causes of electrical failures and breakdown of equipment. • Ability to install, maintain and repair electrical distribution wiring systems and related equipment. • Ability to make job/work related decisions. • Previous experience working with electrical utility systems. • Ability to climb, work in high places, and work in confined spaces along with heavy lifting and other strenuous activities. • Willingness to work with outside contractors under varying weather conditions. • Abilities and experience related to operation of heavy equipment such as bucket trucks, electrical line trucks equipped with cranes and digging augers. • 115,000 High Voltage Safety training. • Knowledge and understanding of how to apply Distribution Construction Standards. • Knowledge related to recognizing and working with asbestos. • Knowledge of NFP 70 E. Physical Demands/Working Conditions Ability to climb, work in high places, and work in confined spaces along with heavy lifting and other strenuous activities. Willingness to work outside under varying weather conditions. Additional Details This position is essential. This includes the obligation to work overtime, to return to work between scheduled shifts when directed, and to report to work during any delays, early departures, and closures. Incumbent is responsible for updating the service desk with current phone number. Qualifications Acquired On Job • Ability to estimate time and materials associated with work. • Complete knowledge of the layout and characteristics of the UMass electrical distribution systems. • Knowledge of locations and complexity of the UMass electrical distribution systems. • Thorough knowledge of the UMass and Convex switching protocol. • Confined space training. • Asbestos training. • Completion of Convex switching training class. • Commercial Driver's License within 6 months of hire. • On the job training up to 115,000 volts. Work Schedule • Monday - Friday. • 7:00am - 3:00pm. • May be reassigned per the contract with notification. Salary Information • Grade 20. • Special Recruitment Rate Step 6. Applicant Instructions Along with the application, please submit a resume. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references. UMass Amherst is committed to a policy of equal opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, caste, creed, sex, age, marital status, national origin, disability, political belief or affiliation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related condition(s), veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, natural and protective hairstyle and any other class of individuals protected from discrimination in employment, admission to and participation in academic programs, activities, and services, and the selection of vendors who provide services or products to the University. To fulfill that policy, UMass Amherst is further committed to a program of affirmative action to eliminate or mitigate artificial barriers and to increase opportunities for the recruitment and advancement of qualified minorities, women, persons with disabilities, and covered veterans. It is the policy of UMass Amherst to comply with the applicable federal and state statutes, rules, and regulations concerning equal opportunity and affirmative action.
See More Details >>About UMass Amherst The flagship of the Commonwealth, the University of Massachusetts Amherst is a nationally ranked public land-grant research university that seeks to expand educational access, fuel innovation and creativity, and share and use its knowledge for the common good. Founded in 1863, UMass Amherst sits on nearly 1,450-acres in scenic Western Massachusetts and boasts state-of-the-art facilities for teaching, research, scholarship, and creative activity. The institution advances a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community where everyone feels connected and valued—and thrives, and offers a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees across 10 schools and colleges, and 100 undergraduate majors. We believe every member of our university community can contribute to our ongoing success by striving for the highest level of excellence as we seek breakthrough solutions to mounting environmental, social, economic, and technological challenges in our world. Job Summary Installs, maintains, operates, repairs and/or initiates repairs on building systems such as; electric, electronic, electro-mechanical controls, card access/security, fire alarm, communication equipment and their related devices and performs other related work as required, including but not limited to, repairs and/or initiates repairs on building systems such as; control systems, heating and ventilation (HVAC) systems, cooling towers, pumps and related equipment. Employing the use and need of specialized testing and monitoring, diagnostic equipment; works synchronously with Control Technicians/trade personnel maintaining the building systems integrity, exercises functional supervision of other employees of lower grade performing related repair and maintenance activities. Essential Functions • Inspects, maintains, repairs, instructs, advises and mentors employees, technicians and journeyman, in the operation and maintenance of the Campus electrical systems, Security Card Access and Fire Alarm systems and their related components including but not limited to, electric controls, electronic controls, electro-mechanical controls, and computer software programs. • Acts as a first responder inspecting, testing, trouble-shooting, repairing and initiating repairs for all control systems, including but not limited to electric: electronic, electro-mechanical, software program controls in context with the building's Electrical, Security Card Access and Fire Alarm systems and their related controlled devices. This requires using electrical, electronic testing, and micro-processor diagnostic equipment. Interacts with contractors and campus customers relating to the operation, maintenance, and repair of various Electrical, Security and Fire Alarm controls. • Provides preventive maintenance and preventive maintenance services on electric, electronic, and electro-mechanical controls. Documents work performed in the equipment maintenance history file. Utilizes computer programs that operate, maintain, and adjust building Electrical, HVAC, Fire Alarm, and Card Access systems. • Maintains and develops operational, procedural and emergency response standards for Electrical, HVAC, Security Card Access and Fire Alarm systems and their related equipment to provide timely systems failure notification and repair response, minimizing equipment down time. This requires using micro-processor and diagnostic equipment. • Assists Engineering staff in drawing review, inspection, trouble-shooting as part of the acceptance of new Electrical, HVAC, Security Card Access and Fire Alarm Systems, equipment, upgrades and equipment replacement, and associated software support. • Drives a motorized vehicle around campus to various campus buildings. • Installs, repairs, alters, and maintains pumps; estimates labor and materials needed to do the work. • Cuts and threads pipe, using stocks and dies, power threading machines, wenches, power saws, safety equipment, and other related tools. • Drills or cuts holes through floors, walls, or ceilings containing asbestos in performance of work assignments. • Performs related duties such as erecting scaffolding, riggings, and/or ladders, laying out drop clothes, fabricating miscellaneous metal products; sharpening and tempering various tools; cleaning tools and equipment; preparing work reports; and training other employees on the job. Other Functions • Performs other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure) • Current, valid Massachusetts Journeyman Electrician's License. • Possess a current, valid Class D driver's license. • Experience as a journeyman Electrician. • Working knowledge of Massachusetts Electrical & NFPA Codes and their applications. • Considerable knowledge of the principles, methods, techniques, practices, materials, and tools used in the Electrical, Card Access and Fire Alarm trade. • Working knowledge of the general and unique hazards and safety precautions associated with the Electrical, Fire Alarm and Card Access trades. • Ability to read, interpret and work from plans, sketches and oral instruction. • Ability to make basic assessments of time and materials required to work assignments. • Ability to supervise and instruct helpers in Electrical, Fire Alarm and Card Access tasks. • Ability to maintain accurate records, logs, etc. • Skill and knowledge to interpret blue prints, schematics, elementary diagrams, logic diagrams associated with HVAC systems; the ability to generate, implement, understand, and respond to verbal and written instructions. • Knowledge of safety practices, preventative maintenance practices and the operation of standard testing equipment. • Skill in using the hand, power, and measurement tools of the trade. • Skill and ability to work independently. • Must be willing to take an annual pulmonary function physical test. • Ability to provide off-shift coverage as requested. • Direct Digital Controls (Electronic Controls as they pertain to HVAC systems). • Massachusetts Public Safety Certificate of Clearance (Applicant has 6 months from date of hire to obtain). • Metasys Facility Operators Certificate (Applicant has 6 months from date of hire to obtain). • Asbestos Abatement Worker Certification (Applicant has 6 months from date of hire to obtain). • Basic knowledge of the Electrical, Fire Alarm and Card Access trades (Applicant has 6 months from date of hire to obtain training). Physical Demands/Working Conditions • Ability to frequently lift and carry objects of 50-100 lbs. • Ability to stand and work for long periods of time, in enclosed, hot, moist spaces, working with a respirator on, climb ladders, and work on scaffolding. • Drive a motorized vehicle around campus to various campus buildings. Work Schedule • Monday through Friday, 6:00am - 2:00pm. • Required to work overtime and return to work between shifts when directed or called. Employee is responsible for updating the service desk with their phone number. Salary Information Grade 17; special recruitment rate: step 6. Special Instructions to Applicants Along with the application, please submit a resume. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references. The University of Massachusetts Amherst welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti-discrimination laws.
See More Details >>Becoming an electrician in Amherst Town, MA, typically starts with an apprenticeship, which combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about four to five years, requiring many hours of training under licensed professionals. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 762,600 electricians nationwide, with a significant presence in Massachusetts, and projects a 6% job growth from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices in Amherst earn an average of $609 per week, with an annual overtime average of $26,500. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring electricians find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $108,000 annually for experienced professionals.
