Job Description

University of Utah Job Description

Job Summary

Repairs and maintains motorized equipment and hand garden tools that are used by the Grounds Department in maintaining the grounds on the University campus.

Qualifications

Successful completion of an approved apprenticeship program as a Small Engine Mechanic, or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience); two years of progressively more responsible experience; and be well versed in all phases of equipment and vehicle repair required. Demonstrated oral and written communications skills; analytical, and trouble shooting skills; and demonstrated customer services skills to deal effectively with others are also required.

The journeyman status is obtained through the successful completion of a 3 year 6,000+ hour accredited apprenticeship program.

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

Disclaimer

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification.  It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

Essential Functions

1. Performs repair and maintenance work to include engine overhauls on all light mower engines. This would normally involve the dismantling of the engine, inspection of parts and their replacement with new parts as needed.
2. Grinds and laps mowers blades as needed by using a power grinder and lapper requiring manual adjustments for proper angle and depth of cut.
3. Performs checks on the preestablished preventive maintenance program which includes the proper lubrication of all equipment.
4. Performs repairs on small engines and equipment used in the department such as chain saws, and pump units used in spraying operations.
5. Tunes up engines by replacing plugs, points, condensers in larger units and magnetos in smaller units.
6. Performs testing of equipment under working conditions after repairs are made.
7. Fixes and maintains campus snow removal equipment such as plows, by mounting mechanical brushes, skid chains, etc.
8. May participate in snow removal activities or other "emergency" situations as required by the Grounds Department.
9. Repairs and sharpens hand tools such as axes.
10. Coordinates all repair work done by outside organizations after approved by the supervisor.

Problem Solving

This position has the authority to prioritize work assignments within the scope of the department's workload.

Comments

The incumbent must be able to maintain all pieces of equipment used by the Grounds Department. The only time equipment would be sent out for repair would be during periods of overload or when the accomplishment of the larger jobs such as overhaul of tractor engines or hydraulic pump units is not possible due to the lack of facilities.

This position requires that the incumbent periodically work irregular hours on special assignments and sometimes during adverse weather conditions.