Electrician I (Card Access Technician) at University of Massachusetts Amherst in Amherst, Massachusetts

Job Description:

Job no: 524206

Work type: Staff Full Time

Location: UMass Amherst

Department: Building Maintenance

Union: AFSCME

Categories: Facilities/Grounds, Skilled Labor

About UMass Amherst

UMass Amherst, the Commonwealth's flagship campus, is a nationally ranked public research university offering a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. The University sits on nearly 1,450-acres in the scenic Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts, and offers a rich cultural environment in a bucolic setting close to major urban centers. In addition, the University is part of the Five Colleges (including Amherst College, Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, and Smith College), which adds to the intellectual energy of the region.

Job Summary

Installs, maintains, operates, repairs and/or initiates repairs on building systems such as, but not limited to, card access systems, security systems, fire alarms, communication equipment, and their related devices and performs other related work as required. Employs the use of specialized testing and monitoring, diagnostic equipment; works synchronously with contractors, engineers, control technicians, etc. to maintain the building systems integrity. Exercises functional supervision of other employees of lower grade performing related repair and maintenance activities.

Essential Functions

• Inspects, maintains, and repairs Campus Card Access, Fire Alarm Systems, Security Systems, and their related components, including but not limited to, electric controls, electro-mechanical controls, and computer software programs. Instructs, advises, and mentors employees and technicians in the operation and maintenance of the above systems.


• Acts as a first responder inspecting, testing, trouble shooting, repairing, and initiating repairs on Fire Alarm Systems, Card Access Systems, and Security Systems to federal, state and local codes. This requires electrical testing, electronic testing, and micro-processor diagnostic equipment. Interacts with contractors and campus customers regarding the operation, maintenance and repair of various security, fire alarm.


• Provides preventive maintenance services, complying with federal, state, and local codes for electric, electronic, and electro-mechanical controls. Documents work performed in the equipment maintenance history file. Utilizes computer programs that operate, maintain, and security and card access systems.


• Maintains and develops operational, procedural and emergency response standards for the Security System, Card Access System, and their equipment. Provides timely systems failure notification and repair response, minimizing equipment down time. This requires using a microprocessor and diagnostic equipment.


• Assists Engineering staff in drawing reviews, inspections, and troubleshooting as part of the commissioning of a new Security System, Card Access System, and respective equipment, upgrades and equipment replacement, and associated software support.


• Drives a motor vehicle around campus to various campus buildings.


• Identifies door access calls and determines if it is mechanical or electrical.


• Drill or cut holes through floors, walls, or ceilings containing asbestos in performance of work assignments.


• May exercise functional supervision over employees of a lower grade.


• Practices and promotes excellent customer service in the workplace and exhibits a clear commitment to the diverse needs of customers.

Other Functions

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)

Current, valid Massachusetts Master, Journeyman, Systems Contractor, or Systems Technician Electrical License.

Possession and maintenance of a current, valid Class D Driver's License.

Thorough knowledge of fundamental principles of electricity and of electronics.

Considerable knowledge of the principles, methods, techniques, practices, materials, and tools used in the Security Systems or Card Access trade.

Working knowledge of Massachusetts Electrical & NFPA Codes and their applications.

Working knowledge of the general and unique hazard and safety precautions associated with the Electrical, Security and Card Access trades.

Ability to read, interpret and work from plans, sketches, and oral instructions.

Ability to make basic assessments of time and materials required to complete work assignments.

Ability to stand and work for long periods of time in enclosed, hot, moist spaces, work with a respirator on, climb ladders and work from scaffolding.

Ability to functionally supervise and instruct helpers in Security and Card Access System tasks.

Ability to maintain accurate records, logs, etc.

Skill and knowledge to interpret blueprints, schematics, elementary diagrams, and logic diagrams associated with Security and Card Access Systems; the ability to generate, implement, understand and respond to verbal and written instructions.

Knowledge of safety practices, preventive maintenance practices and the operation of standard testing equipment.

Ability to frequently lift and carry objects of 50-75 lbs.

Skill in using the hand, power and measurement tools of the trade.

Skill and ability to work independently and with others.

Experience with computer programs, such as word processing and spreadsheets.

Ability to learn and use new programs (i.e. Card Access & TMA) and to change systems programming as required.

Asbestos Abatement worker Certification within 6 months of date of hire.

Department of Public Safety Certificate of Clearance within one (1) year of date of hire.

C-Cure training within one (1) year of date of hire.

Physical Demands/ Working Conditions

Ability to stand and work for long periods of time in enclosed, hot, moist spaces, work with a respirator on, climb ladders and work from scaffolding.

Ability to frequently lift and carry objects of 50-75 lbs.

Work Schedule

Monday - Friday; 7:00am - 3:00pm.

Additional Details

This is a maintenance function, which includes overtime and returning to work between shifts when directed or called. Incumbent is responsible for updating service desk with current phone number(s).

Qualifications Acquired on Job:

Ability to operate Security, Card Access Systems and computerized control systems and monitoring systems used on this campus.

Ability to initiate and/or complete repairs and/or relay the findings to the proper authorities.

Ability to access and implement new technology through training and evaluate the training needs of new employees delegated to them.

Ability to analyze and relate to the unique needs and concerns of campus customers.

Ability to coordinate various trades in a harmonious manner in order to complete a multi-trade task.

Knowledge of the policies, procedures, specifications, standards, and guidelines governing assigned unit activities.

Asbestos abatement as it relates to the Electrical, Security and Card Access trades.

Salary Information.

Grade 17, Special Recruitment Rate: Step 6.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Along with the application, please submit a resume. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references.

UMass Amherst is committed to a policy of equal opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, caste, creed, sex, age, marital status, national origin, disability, political belief or affiliation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related condition(s), veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, natural and protective hairstyle and any other class of individuals protected from discrimination in employment, admission to and participation in academic programs, activities, and services, and the selection of vendors who provide services or products to the University. To fulfill that policy, UMass Amherst is further committed to a program of affirmative action to eliminate or mitigate artificial barriers and to increase opportunities for the recruitment and advancement of qualified minorities, women, persons with disabilities, and covered veterans. It is the policy of UMass Amherst to comply with the applicable federal and state statutes, rules, and regulations concerning equal opportunity and affirmative action.

Advertised: Jul 29 2024 Eastern Daylight Time

Applications close: Dec 30 2024 Eastern Standard Time

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