Mechanical KMI Facilities Technician

Competition 2411

This position is a part of the Non-Academic Staff Association (NASA).

This position offers a comprehensive benefits package.

Location - This role is in-person at North Campus, Edmonton.

Working at the University of Alberta

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people — from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.

Working for the Trades Infrastructure & Maintenance

Trades Infrastructure & Maintenance (within University Services, Operations & Finance) is responsible for the maintenance of building infrastructure assets across the University’s main and other campuses. The University’s building portfolio consists of a diverse collection of commercial buildings that are supported by a wide range of mechanical and electrical base building systems of all ages.  Our purpose is to support the research, teaching mission and vision of the University through excellent maintenance planning, maintenance execution, and stewardship of resources.

Position Summary

Under the supervision of the Mechanical Key Maintenance Initiatives (KMI) Foreman, the Facilities Technician plays a critical role in maintaining the safe and functional operation of critical mechanical systems and emergency safety infrastructure across the University. The Technician supports the University's mission by providing preventative, proactive, and corrective maintenance to critical systems, promoting a safe and comfortable environment for students, staff, researchers, and visitors.

Key responsibilities include the annual inspection, testing, and certification of over 1,300 emergency eyewash stations and safety showers campus-wide, including in restricted lab environments. The Technician coordinates closely with stakeholders to maintain compliance with safety regulations, promptly addresses deficiencies, and ensures full operational functionality of all emergency safety equipment.

The role also includes ongoing oversight and maintenance of mechanical heating and cooling systems, ensuring they operate within defined set points and pressures. This includes system fluid testing & treatment, sidestream filter cleaning and replacement, and glycol concentration testing using specialized instruments like refractometers to prevent system failure, particularly during critical heating seasons.

In addition, the Technician performs regular water quality sampling and testing coordination, along with subsequent filter replacements where necessary. The Technician also manages RO (reverse osmosis) systems in lab environments, coordinating with researchers and external contractors to resolve water quality issues and ensure lab functions continue with minimal disruption.

The role requires close collaboration with Infrastructure Asset Specialists to ensure accurate asset tracking in our asset management information system. They keep a detailed inventory of relevant mechanical components and treatment chemicals. The Technician must adhere to all safety protocols and industry best practices while staying informed on emerging trends and technologies in mechanical water treatment and building systems maintenance.

The successful candidate requires skilled technical knowledge, proactive coordination, attention to regulatory compliance, and strong communication with stakeholders and building occupants. They are a key point of contact for mechanical, safety, and water quality concerns, and they contribute directly to the safe and reliable operation of University facilities.

Duties 

• Maintains work order processing, project listing and daily activity log, and provides information to the supervisor for the area's monthly report
• Supervises contractors who are performing maintenance on building heating/cooling systems
• Responsible for testing of all campus-wide emergency safety equipment, including equipment in lab-restricted areas
• Ensures mechanical equipment and systems are functioning at system-specific set points or pressures, such as heating and cooling systems that require constant adjustments to ensure system efficiency
• Responsible for all preventative maintenance and upkeep pertaining to heating and cooling systems, with the regular and scheduled replacement of inline sediment filters, which encompasses both side stream and Lakos filters
• Conducts annual water sample collection to maintain water quality
• First person of contact when issues arise within a lab regarding RO (reverse osmosis) water quality

Minimum Qualifications

• Grade 12 diploma
• Valid Class 5 driver’s license
• Computer literacy

Preferred Qualifications

• Class 5 Power Engineer is preferred 
• Supplemental courses, i.e., WHMIS, First Aid, Biological & Radiation Safety, APPA Standards, Project Management
• Microsoft Word and Excel
• Google Workspace
• Vocational school certificate in a trade related to the building industry