The posting
Job Description
This competition is open to all applicants; however, internal applicants will be given priority consideration based on minimum qualifications, or a combination of experience, skills, and abilities before external applicants are considered.
This position has a term length of 1 year plus 1 day.
Location - This role is in-person. Work primarily takes place at North Campus, Campus Saint-Jean, and South Campus, Edmonton.
As a key member of the Trades Infrastructure and Maintenance (TIM) team, the Plumber/Pipefitter plays a critical role in the installation, maintenance, and operation of mechanical systems across the University campus. Working both independently and collaboratively, the Plumber is expected to adhere strictly to job hazard assessments and safety protocols, leveraging technology and safety resources to ensure high standards of health and safety are met for all stakeholders, including faculty, staff, and students. The successful candidate will perform independent work without direct supervision, taking full responsibility for all aspects of their tasks while adhering to National Plumbing Codes and University standards.
The role requires the ability to respond to both routine and emergency maintenance situations, this position involves designing and building mechanical apparatus, the plumber/pipefitter will perform troubleshooting and repairs. Our Plumbers are safety champions, consistently prioritizing the well-being of themselves, their teammates, and the campus community by conducting thorough risk assessments and leveraging modern safety software.
Operating within the Utilities and Operations (UTOPS) group, the Plumber demonstrates a high level of trade expertise, including deep knowledge of construction codes, technical problem-solving skills, and professional workmanship. They are safety champions and proactive team contributors who deliver services across a range of mechanical systems, including heating, cooling, steam, domestic water, drainage, compressed air, and natural gas.
With a forward-thinking and preventive approach, Plumbers are expected to embrace continuous learning, contribute to inventory management systems, and adopt innovative methods to improve efficiency and reduce costs. The successful candidate will be a reliable, skilled tradesperson who brings strong planning, communication, and technical abilities to support the University’s infrastructure and ensure a safe, efficient, and well-maintained environment.
Responsibilities
- Perform regulatory, preventive, and emergency maintenance on complex mechanical systems, with a focus on domestic water, drainage, steam, hydronic heating, and cooling infrastructure.
- Troubleshoot, repair and perform preventive maintenance on mechanical systems by identifying potential issues early, ensuring proper operation and long-term reliability.
- Install and commission intricate piping systems for new projects, ensuring full compliance with ABSA registered equipment standards and the National Plumbing Code.
- Read and interpret complex schematics and line diagrams to troubleshoot and isolate malfunctions in large-scale industrial mechanical systems.
- Utilize specialized equipment, including pipe threaders, groovers, to manage large-bore piping and equipment replacement.
- Maintain certifications, stay current with evolving safety standards and technologies, collaborate with contractors, and utilize TIM/UTOPS inventory systems for efficient material and supply management.
- Provide training and supervision to apprentices and new employees by instilling proper work ethics, monitoring certification progress, and orienting them to campus policies, equipment, and locations.
- Participate in rotational standby shifts to promptly diagnose, resolve mechanical issues, and manage emergencies during off-hours.
- Actively engage in safety initiatives by contributing to meetings, supporting program development, and maintaining safety procedures and documentation.
- Install piping systems for new projects or replace failed systems.
- Read and interpret plans and drawings to understand project scope, and update as-built documentation, schematics, and line diagrams upon completion to ensure accurate records.
- Prepare detailed cost estimates for labour, materials, and time to assist in project planning and budgeting. Procure materials by coordinating with maintenance teams and staying informed on requisitions to ensure the timely execution of work orders.
- Troubleshoot, repair and perform preventive maintenance on mechanical systems by identifying potential issues early, ensuring proper operation and long-term reliability.
- Test, calibrate, and document all regulatory systems—including backflow prevention devices, emergency eyewash and shower units, and ABSA-registered equipment—to ensure University compliance with safety codes and regulatory bodies.
- Maintain certifications, stay current with evolving safety standards and technologies, collaborate with contractors, and utilize TIM/UTOPS inventory systems for efficient material and supply management. Provide training and supervision to apprentices and new employees by instilling proper work ethics, monitoring certification progress, and orienting them to campus policies, equipment, and locations.
- Utilize modern software, including the University’s Integrated Workplace Management System (IWMS) and Google Suite, to schedule tasks, maintain records, optimize workflows, and collaborate effectively.
- Participate in rotational standby and afternoon shifts to promptly diagnose, resolve mechanical issues, and manage emergencies during off-hours.
- Actively engage in safety initiatives by contributing to meetings, supporting program development, and maintaining safety procedures and documentation.
Qualifications
- Journeyperson Plumbing Certificate with Red Seal Endorsement
- High School Diploma
- Comprehensive understanding of the National Plumbing Code, local regulations, and pressure piping standards
- Up-to-date knowledge of safety protocols, including Lock-Out-Tag-Out (LOTO) and hazardous substance exposure controls.
- Willingness and availability to accommodate rotational standby and emergency call-backs.
- Ability to use and interact with electronic devices and software, including computerized maintenance management systems
- Other related certifications as required by trade standards or regulations
- Ability to use and interact with electronic devices and software, including computerized maintenance management systems
- Willingness and availability to accommodate on-call requirements as part of rotational duties Other related certifications as required by trade standards or regulations
Preferred Qualifications
- Must possess a valid Alberta Class 5 (non-GDL) driver’s license
- Must be able to provide a recent copy of a three-year driver’s abstract with no more than six (6) demerits and/or two (2) moving violations within the last two years
- Extensive experience in commercial or industrial mechanical environments.
- Previous experience working on the University of Alberta campuses or similar environments
- Technical proficiency in the installation and maintenance of ABSA Code affiliated piping and equipment
- Familiarity with ASME B31.9 and B31.3 codes regarding process and building services piping.
- Proven experience working on live mechanical systems with a strict adherence to isolation and safety protocols
- Dual-trade exposure or additional experience in areas outside the core plumbing trade that enhance overall mechanical performance.
- Commercial, industrial or residential mechanical experience
- Hands-on experience in construction projects
- Previous experience working on the University of Alberta campuses or similar environments
- Backflow Prevention training
- Familiarity with enterprise solutions such as Google Suite, Microsoft Office Suite, AssetWorks AiM or equivalent computerized maintenance management systems, and other third-party applications, i.e. BAS Experience with ABSA Code and affiliated piping and equipment
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Application Instructions
Click "Apply Now" to submit your resume and cover letter
This position is subject to all applicable terms and conditions of the collective agreement between the Governors of the University of Alberta and the Non-Academic Staff Association (NASA).
This position offers a comprehensive benefits package.
About Us
The University of Alberta, its buildings, labs and research stations are primarily located on the territory of Néhiyaw (Cree), Niitsitapi (Blackfoot), Métis, Nakoda (Stoney), Dene, Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) and Anishinaabe (Ojibway/Saulteaux), lands that are now known as part of Treaties 6, 7 and 8 and homeland of the Métis. The University of Alberta respects the sovereignty, lands, histories, languages, knowledge systems and cultures of all First Nations, Métis, and Inuit.
The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.
Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people - from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.
At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.
All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms—physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of belonging and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.
The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.
L’Université de l’Alberta s’engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes de toute orientation sexuelle ou identité et expression de genre; et toutes les personnes qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.
Operating one of the largest campus district energy systems in North America, the utilities team plays a vital role in maintaining and advancing the infrastructure that serves over 70,000 people daily. Their efforts ensure efficient and sustainable energy services across the campus and greater campus area.
