Lead Plumber

Stowers Institute for Medical Research; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Stowers Institute for Medical Research is seeking a Lead Plumber to join the Operations team. The role will install, maintain, and repair campus plumbing systems during renovations and routine maintenance, serving as the primary in-house authority on plumbing work.

The ideal candidate will have 5+ years as a licensed plumber and a Master Plumber license (or willingness to obtain it), with strong knowledge of plumbing codes, backflow prevention, and the ability to read blueprints and coordinate

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience as a licensed plumber, including commercial or institutional facility work.
• Master Plumber license; willingness to obtain it if not currently held.
• Strong working knowledge of plumbing codes, backflow prevention, and permit processes.
• Experience with specialty systems (lab gas, vacuum, RO/DI water) preferred.
• Ability to read blueprints and technical specifications.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Valid driver's license.
• Completion of Master Plumber Certification program, or willingness to complete after hire.
• Trade certification or equivalent experience (preferred).

Responsibilities

• Install, maintain, repair, and inspect plumbing systems across campus.
• Diagnose and resolve complex plumbing issues including leaks and pressure problems.
• Perform preventive maintenance on pumps, water heaters, backflow preventers, sump pumps.
• Ensure compliance with codes, permits, and regulatory requirements.
• Read blueprints and specs for new installations and renovations.
• Coordinate plumbing aspects of construction projects with contractors and internal teams.
• Respond promptly to plumbing emergencies.
• Maintain records of maintenance, repairs, inspections, and backflow testing.
• Mentor maintenance staff on plumbing tasks.
• Enforce safety policies and building regulations.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Licensed plumber

Master Plumber license

Plumbing codes knowledge

Backflow prevention

Read blueprints

Project multitasking

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Master Plumber Certification program

Job description

The Lead Plumber will be an integral member of the Operations team, responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of plumbing systems throughout the campus. This work will be performed during renovation projects as well as supporting routine maintenance of the facility. This role requires advanced technical expertise in plumbing code, system design, and troubleshooting, and serves as the primary in‑house authority on plumbing‑related work. The candidate is required to have a Master Plumber certification and be a hands‑on professional who can work independently and coordinate with contractors and internal teams to keep facility plumbing systems safe, code‑compliant, and fully operational.

Key Responsibilities

• Install, maintain, repair, and inspect plumbing systems, including domestic water, sanitary, storm, gas, and specialty lab/vacuum systems
• Diagnose and resolve complex plumbing issues, including leaks, clogs, pressure problems, and equipment failures
• Perform preventive maintenance on pumps, water heaters, backflow preventers, sump pumps, and related equipment
• Ensure all plumbing work complies with applicable codes, permits, and regulatory requirements
• Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and specifications for new installations and renovations
• Coordinate plumbing‑related aspects of construction and renovation projects with contractors, vendors, and internal departments
• Respond promptly to plumbing emergencies
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance, repairs, inspections, and backflow testing
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to other maintenance staff on plumbing‑related tasks
• Enforce all safety policies, procedures, and building regulations per EH&S team
• Other duties as assigned

Distinguishing Characteristics

Ability to:

• Work independently with minimal supervision while managing multiple concurrent projects
• Mentor team members and promote best practices in plumbing maintenance and safety
• Communicate effectively with facility staff, internal customers, and external contractors
• Deliver high‑level customer service and respond to urgent facility issues

Qualifications & Experience

• 5+ years of experience as a licensed plumber, including commercial or institutional facility work
• Master Plumber license. Candidates who do not currently hold the designation must be willing and able to obtain it, in accordance with state and local licensing requirements.
• Strong working knowledge of plumbing codes, backflow prevention, and permit processes
• Experience with specialty systems (e.g., lab gas, vacuum, RO/DI water) preferred
• Ability to read blueprints and technical specifications
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment
• Valid driver's license

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent (required)
• Completion of a recognized Master Plumber Certification program, or willingness to complete required certification after hired.
• Trade certification or equivalent experience (preferred)