Utilities Distribution Technician

CP11 University of New Hampshire; Durham (NH); On-site; USD 27,758 - 45,667; Full time

Job summary

University System of New Hampshire is seeking a skilled Utilities Distribution Operator to perform operation, inspection, maintenance, and installation across campus utility systems including potable water, hydronic, steam, and sewer networks.

Responsibilities include coordinating with project managers and contractors, ensuring regulatory compliance, and supporting asset management and surveys. On‑site in Durham with a focus on reliability and safety.

Qualifications

• 2–5+ years in utility distribution or related trades such as plumbing, pipefitting, high pressure steam maintenance, drainage systems, earthwork, or welding.
• Valid NH driver’s license.
• Ability to work in confined spaces; in inclement weather; wear PPE; be on‑call outside normal hours.

Responsibilities

• Operate, inspect, maintain, repair, install, and troubleshoot campus utility distribution systems (potable water to steam).
• Inspect and maintain infrastructure components (stormwater treatment, sewage lift stations, tunnels, valve pits, hydrants).
• Coordinate with engineers, project managers, and contractors on assessments, designs, and projects.
• Assist in planning infrastructure renewal and capital improvement projects.
• Support inventory and external coordination with Town of Durham Public Works and campus departments.

Skills

Confined spaces

Inclement weather

PPE compliance

Emergency response

Physical dexterity

Codes & regulations

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Perform duties related to the operation, inspection, maintenance, design, and installation of distribution systems for potable water, heating water supply and return, domestic hot water supply and return, chilled water supply and return, stormwater, wastewater, steam, and condensate. Inspects and maintains campus utility distribution system components, including but not limited to stormwater treatment systems, sewage lift stations, underground utility tunnels and valve pits, and fire hydrants.

Duties/Responsibilities

Utility Distribution System Operations & Maintenance (40%)

• Perform operation, inspection, maintenance, repair, installation, and troubleshooting activities for campus utility distribution systems, including potable water, heating water, domestic hot water, chilled water, stormwater, wastewater, steam, and condensate systems.
• Inspect and maintain utility infrastructure components including stormwater treatment systems, sewage lift stations, underground utility tunnels, valve pits, and fire hydrants.
• Install and maintain temporary utility services required for construction and campus projects.
• Respond to operational issues and coordinate corrective actions to ensure reliable utility service and system performance.

Regulatory Compliance, Asset Management & System Assessment (25%)

• Ensure utility distribution systems are operated and maintained in compliance with University policies and applicable local, state, and federal regulations.
• Conduct inspections and support condition assessments of utility infrastructure to identify maintenance, repair, and replacement needs.
• Inspect erosion and sediment control measures associated with construction activities.
• Assist with maintaining utility asset information within Facilities asset management and GIS systems to support planning, tracking, and regulatory requirements.

Project Coordination & Contractor Oversight (20%)

• Coordinate with engineering consultants, project managers, and campus stakeholders on utility infrastructure assessments, design activities, construction projects, and system improvements.
• Schedule and oversee outside contractors performing utility installations, maintenance, and repair work.
• Inspect completed contractor work to verify compliance with project requirements, quality standards, and operational expectations.
• Assist in planning and implementing infrastructure renewal and capital improvement projects.

Stakeholder Support, Inventory & External Coordination (15%)

• Coordinate with Town of Durham Public Works staff regarding potable water, wastewater, and stormwater system operations and related issues.
• Support University Facilities personnel and other campus departments on utility-related matters.
• Assist the Utilities Distribution Superintendent with maintaining critical materials, equipment, and supply inventories.
• Provide technical support and coordination to ensure effective communication and collaboration among internal and external stakeholders.

Requirements

• Minimum Acceptable Education & Experience: 2‑5+ years of experience in utility distribution, or related trades such as plumbing, pipefitting, high pressure steam maintenance, drainage systems, earthwork, or welding. Experience in construction project management or mechanical/civil engineering is also considered. High school diploma or equivalent.
• Required Licenses & Certifications: Valid NH driver’s license.
• Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Ability to work in confined spaces; work in inclement weather and heat; properly wear PPE; respond to emergency situations and be on‑call outside normal work hours in a normal rotation; sufficient strength and physical dexterity for heavy lifting and prolonged exposure to inclement weather; knowledge of applicable codes and regulations.

Preferred Qualifications

• NH PWS Operator Grade T1/D1 or ability to attain within 12 months.
• NEWEA Collections System Operator Grade I/II or ability to attain within 12 months.
• NH Plumbing License.
• NH Pipefitter License.
• CDL Class B.
• EPA CGP Erosion Control Inspector Certification.

Compensation

Pay Range: $20.15 – $33.15 per hour. The actual offer will be based on skills, qualifications, experience, and internal equity. Benefits information: USNH Employee Benefits | Human Resources. Location: Durham.

EEO Statement

The University System of New Hampshire is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access employer. The University System is committed to creating an environment that values and supports diversity and inclusiveness across our campus communities and encourages applications from qualified individuals who will help us achieve this mission. The University System prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or marital status.