Fire Mechanic

Updated: 2 months ago

14-Feb-2024

Campus Services

64998BR


Job Summary

Energy & Facilities (E&F) operates and manages Harvard’s energy supplies, district energy plants, and utility infrastructures on the Cambridge/Boston/Allston campuses, as well as a 24/7 facilities-related call, alarm monitoring, and dispatch center. E&F also provides a broad portfolio of labor-based services, including building maintenance, landscaping, and custodial, to a large portion of the University, as well as engineering, technical, and sustainability services. Facilities Maintenance Operations (FMO), a department within E&F, offers primary building maintenance, landscape, fire safety, custodial, and event support services to Harvard schools and departments on a fee-for-service basis. All services are provided in strict accordance with regulatory requirements and customer-determined standards.

Position Summary: Installs, maintains, inspects and tests building life-safety equipment and systems, including: fire alarm panels, detection and signal devices (smoke and heat detectors, lights and audible alarms), water and chemical-based suppression systems, portable fire extinguishers, fire escapes and hydrants.


Position Description

  • Performs all required installation, maintenance and repair, inspection and testing of life safety equipment in accordance with applicable standards and requirements of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and the Massachusetts State Building Life Safety Codes and/or established compliance requirements of the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Interprets and updates mechanical plans, drawings and prints as necessary.
  • Assists and advises customers on progress / status of work and provides responsive and effective customer support in all phases of FSS and building maintenance operations, including advising customers on maintenance solutions and providing follow-up on progress and status of work.
  • May be assigned to work independently or as part of a multi-trade team under the guidance and direction of the FSS Supervisor and/or Working Foreperson. Must observe and comply with all standard safety codes and practices and perform work in accordance with recognized trade and University standards. Performs others duties as required.

Basic Qualifications

  • Minimum five years recent experience installing and maintaining building life safety systems, including: fire alarm systems, remote central station fire alarm monitoring equipment, and associated devices. 
  • Must maintain a valid Massachusetts Fire Alarm Class D Systems Installer License. 
  • Valid State driver’s license and satisfactory driving history. 
  • Experience and demonstrated proficiency in the use of industry-recognized diagnostic testing equipment.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

Additional Qualifications:

  • Must be able to perform mathematical calculations required to accurately size and install system components and devices. 
  • Must be able to read and interpret detailed plans, drawings, specifications, operating manuals and other written materials associated with this trade. 
  • Demonstrated ability to follow complex instructions and to exercise sound judgment in performance of routine and emergency assignments with minimal direct supervision or oversight required. 
  • Must be able to effectively communicate in English with peers and customers, clearly and professionally at all times. 
  • Must demonstrate initiative, ownership of outcomes, and customer-focused approach to all work assignments. 
  • Must be able to work both independently and as effective member of a team and in conjunction with other trades and support personnel.

Technology Skills Required:

  • Basic keyboard proficiency and understanding of Windows® based software including MS Office and related applications.

Special Requirements (and ongoing conditions of employment):

  • Must be willing to work in research laboratory environments and around hazardous materials.
  • Required to wear/use appropriate safety clothing/equipment at all times.
  • Required to properly wear department-issued uniforms and maintain a professional image at all times.
  • Must be willing to work overtime in response to campus emergencies or other group business needs.
  • Required to supply a complete set of hand tools.

Certificates and Licenses

  • Must maintain a valid Massachusetts Fire Alarm Class D Systems Installer License. 
  • Valid State driver’s license and satisfactory driving history. 

Physical Requirements

  • Must be able to stoop and bend repeatedly and work on hands and knees and other awkward positions for extended periods. 
  • Must be able to lift up a minimum of 50 lbs. and to push, pull and transport piping and equipment in excess of 200 lbs. with others (may use chain falls and come alongs for heavier lifting). 
  • Must be able to routinely walk to and from various buildings or work sites carrying tools, equipment and other essentials. 
  • Must be able to work alone, in confined spaces and extreme temperatures, climb multiple sets of stairs, work off ladders, staging, lifts or other elevated platforms.

Working Conditions

Work Format: On Site

Emergency Status Designation: Critical Operations Personnel


Additional Information

The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up-to-date on CDC-recommended vaccines.


Work Format Details

This position is based primarily on-campus, in Massachusetts. This may include in-person during emergency situations (if applicable). Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.


Benefits

We invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website (https://hr.harvard.edu/totalrewards ) to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:

  • Paid Time Off
  • Health and Welfare
  • Work/Life and Wellness
  • Retirement
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Professional Development
  • Commuting and Transportation
  • Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks

Department Office Location

USA - MA - Cambridge


Job Code

267000 Fire Mechanic


Sub-Unit

Energy & Facilities


Department

FMO Fire Safety Services


Union

42 - Int Un Oper Engineers Loc 877


Hourly Rate and/or Rate Range

$47.90


Pre-Employment Screening

Criminal, DMV, Drug Testing, Employment, Identity, License/Cert.


Schedule

Monday-Friday: 7:00am - 3:30pm
Scheduled days off: Sunday & Saturday


Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.


EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.



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