Utility Distribution Mechanic I

Duke University; Durham, Northern (NC, KY); Hybrid; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Duke University is seeking a Utility Distribution Mechanic Apprentice to help maintain and repair critical utility distribution systems across Duke's hospitals, research facilities, and campus operations.

You will work with experienced mechanics and supervisors, gaining hands-on experience with steam, chilled water, hot water, water, sewer, and reclaimed water systems while emphasizing safety and reliability.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent or skilled trades coursework.
• Valid North Carolina driver’s license and ability to drive between sites.

Responsibilities

• Assist with preventive maintenance on utility distribution systems and building infrastructure.
• Support maintenance tasks for steam, chilled water, hot water, domestic water, sewer, and reclaimed water systems.
• Perform tasks under guidance of qualified mechanics and supervisors.
• Assist with piping systems, valves, and other utility components.

Skills

Basic knowledge of utility systems

Ability to learn and apply maintenance

Strong attention to detail

Teamwork and following instructions

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Valid NC driver's license

Tools

Pipe wrenches

Pipe vises

Levels

Pipe fabrication tools

Pipe bending tools

Pipe flaring tools

Job description

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Date: Oct 9, 2026

Be You. Be Bold. Choose Duke.

Utility Distribution Mechanic Apprentice

Be You.

At Duke, we recognize that every team member brings unique talents, experiences, and perspectives that strengthen our mission. As a Utility Distribution Mechanic Apprentice, you will play an important role in maintaining the critical infrastructure that supports Duke's world-class hospitals, research facilities, and campus operations. You will join a team of skilled professionals committed to safety, reliability, collaboration, and continuous learning while developing your expertise in utility distribution systems.

Be Bold.

As a Utility Distribution Mechanic Apprentice, you will assist in maintaining and repairing utility distribution systems that are essential to Duke's operations. Working alongside experienced mechanics and supervisors, you will gain hands‑on experience supporting steam, chilled water, hot water, domestic water, sewer, stormwater, and reclaimed water systems while building a strong foundation in utility maintenance and safety practices.

What You'll Do:

Utility Maintenance and Operations

• Assist with preventive maintenance activities on utility distribution systems and related building infrastructure according to scheduled and emergency maintenance needs.


• Support maintenance and repair tasks involving steam distribution, chilled water, central hot water, domestic water, stormwater, sanitary sewer, and reclaimed water systems.


• Perform assigned utility distribution and building maintenance tasks under the guidance of qualified mechanics and supervisors.


• Assist with maintenance activities involving piping systems, valves, and other utility system components.

Documentation and Technology

• Enter and maintain work‑related information in the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS), including work orders, preventive maintenance activities, inventory records, and asset management documentation.


• Complete lockout/tagout documentation, hot work permits, and other trade‑related records.


• Utilize required software applications to support maintenance operations and reporting.

Tools, Equipment, and Safety

• Use and maintain specialized testing equipment, hand tools, and power tools associated with utility maintenance work.


• Perform trade‑related calculations, conversions, and measurements required to complete assigned tasks.


• Assist with lockout/tagout procedures to support safe maintenance operations.


• Serve as a fire watch or confined space attendant/entrant as required and trained.


• Follow established safety procedures and utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Team Support

• Maintain clean and organized work areas.


• Pick up, transport, and deliver parts, equipment, and materials as needed.


• Collaborate with and assist other mechanics and maintenance team members.


• Perform other related duties incidental to the work described herein.

What You'll Bring:

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent, including coursework in skilled trades, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.


• Valid North Carolina driver's license.


• Basic understanding of workplace safety practices, including PPE requirements and emergency response procedures.


• Ability to learn and apply utility maintenance principles and procedures.


• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safe work practices.


• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and follow technical instructions.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Basic knowledge of utility distribution systems and maintenance operations.


• Ability to properly use and maintain hand tools commonly associated with the trade, including:
  
  
  
  • Pipe wrenches
  
  
  • Pipe vises and stands
  
  
  • Levels
  
  
  • Pipe fabrication tools
  
  
  • Pipe bending tools
  
  
  • Pipe flaring tools
  
  


• Ability to perform basic trade‑related mathematical calculations and measurements.


• Ability to maintain accurate maintenance and service documentation.


• Commitment to delivering high‑quality service and operational reliability.

Why Duke:

• Be part of a nationally recognized institution known for excellence in healthcare, research, and education.


• Learn from experienced trades professionals in a collaborative and supportive environment.


• Gain valuable hands‑on experience working with complex utility infrastructure systems.


• Access opportunities for professional development and career advancement.


• Work in an organization that values safety, innovation, integrity, and teamwork.


• Contribute to the reliable operation of facilities that support patient care, research, and academic excellence.

Choose Duke.

Join a team whose work makes a difference every day. Your dedication to learning, safety, and operational excellence will help keep Duke running while building a rewarding skilled trades career.

Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation or military status.

Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas—an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.

Essential Physical Job Functions:
Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.

Nearest Major Market: Durham
Nearest Secondary Market: Raleigh

Read more about Duke’s commitment to affirmative action and nondiscrimination at hr.duke.edu/eeo.