Structural Mechanic

The University of Chicago; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 54,000 - 63,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Chicago's Facilities Services seeks a skilled trades technician to perform building envelope repairs, fabricate and install metal products, and maintain roof systems. Work includes gutters, masonry, and various roofing materials, following university standards.

Responsibilities include analyzing blueprints, using welding tools, and training new staff. The role demands physical fitness, safety awareness, and reliability in a campus environment.

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or GED required; associate degree preferred.
• Four years' related roofing experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Must have a valid driver's license and ability to obtain required licenses.
• Ability to braze, solder and weld; physically capable of strenuous activity.

Responsibilities

• Fabricate, maintain, and install interior and exterior hardware.
• Repair and replace roofing systems and gutters.
• Inspect and troubleshoot roofing components from blueprints.
• Operate tools and equipment; ensure safety and cleanliness.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Manual dexterity

Reading blueprints

Problem solving

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate's degree preferred

Apprenticeship program preferred

Tools

Welding equipment

Roofing tools

Soldering/Brazing

Metal fabrication

Job description

DepartmentOPS Facilities Campus Trades ShopAbout the DepartmentFacilities Services supports the mission of the University of Chicago through efforts to maintain and enhance the University campus and environment and provide superior client service to our community including faculty, students, staff, neighbors and visitors.

Job Information

Job Summary: Perform building envelopes and related systems repairs using a variety of construction materials and methods. Fabricate, install and repair metal products and masonry assemblies. Maintain gutters and roof systems by using roofing materials. Perform work in accordance with university standards and procedures for university buildings and properties.

Responsibilities

• Fabricate, maintain and install interior and exterior building hardware.
• Operate machines to cut and shape components to specified dimensions.
• Lay out, fit, weld, and assemble components.
• Maintain, repair, replace, or troubleshoot roof systems, including single-ply systems, multiple-ply systems, and different styles of shingle and tile roofs.
• Repair and replace conventional glass, leaded glass, metal window, masonry, concrete, stone and glass assemblies; fabricate leaded windows.
• Clean gutters and rod out downspouts.
• Perform water tests on building roof areas using fire hoses and other spray equipment.
• During winter season may apply salt and/or remove snow on roofs.
• Inspect and troubleshoot roofing components.
• Work from blueprints or sketches.
• Perform inspections and troubleshoot building components.
• Maintain shop supplied power and hand tools and equipment.
• Help introduce new employees to shop protocol, procedures and campus applications and equipment.
• Requisition materials and supplies using in-house procedures as needed. Keep working area safe and clean.
• Wear and/or use appropriate safety equipment.
• Use computers to enter and access job related information.
• Undertake training related to job duties or other training as deemed necessary by the University.
• Perform related job duties as may be assigned.

Competencies

• Demonstrated ability to access computer programs and use or learn basic computer operations related to position requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to read and interpret instructions and documents.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing.
• Demonstrated ability to perform basic mathematical functions related to the position.
• Strong problem-solving skills required; excellent customer service skills.

Education, Experience, or Certifications

• Education: High school diploma or GED from an accredited institution required. Associate's degree highly preferred. Completion of job-related apprenticeship program or advanced job-related training programs preferred.
• Experience: Four years' related experience in flat or sloped roofing materials, or an equivalent combination of position-related education and experience required.

Technical Knowledge or Skills

• Ability to braze, solder, and weld required.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and manual dexterity required.
• Ability to be physically capable of strenuous activity over extended periods of time, including ability to lift, kneel, climb stairs, ladders, be capable of working at heights as required, ability to enter and work within tight spaces, and to withstand hot and cold temperatures.

Licenses and Certifications

• Current valid driver's license and the ability to successfully complete the University's Motor Vehicle Record Check process, and other licenses or certificates needed for this position as required by law.
• Required to obtain an Illinois Pesticide Operator's license within six months of employment.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

• Must demonstrate mechanical aptitude and manual dexterity and be physically capable of strenuous activity over extended periods of time.
• Must be able to lift and move loads appropriate to job requirements and be able to bend and work in a kneeling position for periods of time.
• Must be able to climb stairs and ladders, be capable of working at heights as required, be able to enter and work within tight spaces, and be able to withstand hot and cold temperatures.

Required Documents

• Cover LetterResumeList of References

Benefit EligibilityYes

Pay Range:$45.61 per hour

The University of Chicago uses AI-assisted tools to streamline and augment some recruitment processes; however, AI is not used to make hiring decisions.

Pay Rate TypeHourlyPay Range$38.77 - $45.61 The included pay rate or range represents the University's good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Scheduled Weekly Hours40

Union042 - Local 73, S.E.I.U. Skilled Trades - Real Estate Operations

Job is Exempt NoDrug Test Required NoHealth Screen Required NoMotor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required Yes

Posting Date 2026-07-07

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination. Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form. All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.