Power Plant Lead Mechanic

JMU Careers; Harrisonburg (VA); On-site; USD 58,000 - 63,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off (vacation/sick/holidays)

Retirement plan

Tuition waiver

Job summary

James Madison University (JMU) is seeking a Power Plant Lead Mechanic to oversee operations and maintenance of steam generation and chill water systems. The role requires leadership in the absence of supervisor and participation in on-call rotation.

Candidates should demonstrate strong mechanical ability, knowledge of safety rules, and experience with repair, inspection, and distribution systems, with readiness to work all shifts.

Qualifications

• Leadership and supervisory skills for managing in the supervisor's absence.
• Strong mechanical knowledge of steam/generating and chillwater systems.
• Ability to read gauges, recorders and monitoring equipment; perform diagnostics.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and supervision in the absence of the mechanical supervisor.
• Oversee operations, maintenance, repair, inspection and rebuilding of steam generation and chill water equipment.
• Inspect and maintain steam and chill water distribution systems.

Skills

Leadership

Supervision

Maintenance

Welding & cutting

Mechanical aptitude

Reading gauges

Tools

Hand tools

Power tools

Welding equipment

Job description

Working Title: Power Plant Lead Mechanic

State Role Title: Trades Technician III

Position Type: Full-time Staff (Classified)

Position Status: Full-Time

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt: Eligible for Overtime

College/Division: Business Services

Department: 300129 - Power Plant AUX

Pay Band: 3

Pay Rate: Pay Range

Specify Range or Amount: $58,000-$63,000

Is this a JMU only position? No

Is this a grant-funded position? No

Is this a Conflict of Interest designated position? No

Beginning Review Date: 9/29/2026

About JMU:

At James Madison University (JMU), we’re more than just a publicly funded institution — we’re a vibrant, welcoming community located on a stunning campus where innovation, collaboration, and personal growth thrive. Our mission is to prepare students for a bright future, and we believe that starts with supporting the people who make it all possible: our employees.

Why Work at JMU?

We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your professional journey and personal wellbeing:

• Generous Leave: Enjoy paid vacation, sick leave, parental leave, community service leave, and 19 paid holidays annually.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Access high-quality health insurance options that fit your needs.
• Retirement Options: Plan for your future with retirement benefits through the Virginia Retirement System.
• Employee Well-Being: Our Balanced Dukes program promotes wellness and work-life integration through resources, events, and support.
• Tuition Waiver Program: Advance your education with our tuition waiver program for undergraduate and graduate courses taken at JMU.

At JMU, we believe in Being the Change — and that starts with creating an environment where you can grow, contribute meaningfully, and feel supported every step of the way.

Discover what makes JMU a great place to work: bit.ly/JMUEmployment

General Information:

JMU's Facilities Management is currently hiring for a Power Plant Lead Mechanic. This position will require you to be available to work all shifts and participated int the on-call rotation.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Providing leadership and supervision in the absence of the mechanical supervisor
• Skilled and effective operations, maintenance, repair, inspection and rebuilding of steam generation and chill water production mechanical and related equipment
• Inspection, repair and maintenance of steam and chill water distribution systems

Qualifications:

• Knowledge of all aspects of repair and maintenance procedures to steam/chiller plant distributions/condensate return systems
• Working knowledge of applicable safety rules, regulations and procedures
• Working skills to include: use of hand and power tools, welding and cutting equipment and mechanical abilities
• Ability to Maintain and repair steam plant and related equipment
• Ability to diagnose a variety of mechanical problems
• Ability to read and interpret gauges, recorders and monitoring equipment
• Ability to perform complex record keeping tasks
• Ability to assist with maintaining DEQ/EPA Title V Operating Permit

Additional Posting Information:

Conditions of Employment:

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check and an acceptable MVR.

E-Verify Notice: After accepting employment, new hires are required to complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. James Madison University uses the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.

EEO Statement:

James Madison University is committed to creating and supporting a diverse and inclusive work and educational community that is free of all forms of discrimination. This institution does not tolerate discrimination or harassment on the basis of age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, national origin, parental status, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or veteran status.

We promote access, inclusion and diversity for all students, faculty, staff, constituents and programs, believing that these qualities are foundational components of an outstanding education in keeping with our mission. The university is interested in candidates whose experience and qualifications support an ongoing commitment to this core quality.

Anyone having questions concerning discrimination should contact the Office for Equal Opportunity: [phone].

Reasonable Accommodation:

If you are an individual with a disability and need assistance searching or applying for jobs please contact us at [phone] or [e-mail]. You may also visit the JMU Human Resource Office, located at 752 Ott Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22807 and we will be happy to assist you.