Technical Specialist I (Roofer) at University of Massachusetts Amherst in Amherst, Massachusetts

Job Description:

Job no: 525737

Work type: Staff Full Time

Location: UMass Amherst

Department: Building Maintenance

Union: AFSCME

Categories: AFSCME A

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

The Roofer installs, maintains, and repairs roofs, roof shingles, membranes, metal drip edge, flashing, gutters & roof drains. Responsibilities include maintaining the roofing systems of campus-wide structures and areas, applying appropriate skills and methods as necessary in the areas of roofing. The Roofer may also assist other employees in the performance of their work.

Essential Functions

• Installs various roofing materials (e.g., shingles, tiles, metal, membranes) in accordance with design specifications and industry standards.


• Inspects roofs for damage, leaks, and wear and tear, performing necessary repairs such as patching holes, replacing damaged shingles, and sealing leaks.


• Conducts routine maintenance tasks, including gutter cleaning, debris removal, and ensuring proper drainage system function.


• Performs comprehensive roof inspections to identify and assess any issues requiring attention or repair.


• Installs and repairs flashing to prevent water intrusion around roof penetrations like chimneys, vents, and skylights.


• Ensures adequate roof ventilation to control temperature and moisture levels in attics, preventing issues like mold and ice dams.


• Adheres to safety protocols and uses appropriate safety equipment when working at heights to prevent accidents and injuries.


• Handles and transports roofing materials to job sites, ensuring the availability of necessary tools and equipment.


• Collaborates on roofing system design, helping determine the best materials and systems for specific projects.


• Communicates with customers to explain project scopes, provide estimates, and address questions or concerns.


• Maintains accurate records of work performed, materials used, and project details for reference and billing purposes.


• Collaborates with other construction professionals on larger projects and may provide functional supervision to a team of employees as assigned.


• Adapts to various weather conditions, working in both hot and cold climates, and adjusting work accordingly.


• Stays updated with industry trends, new roofing materials, and installation techniques to maintain skills and knowledge.


• Troubleshoots and finds solutions to roofing issues such as leaks, structural problems, and ventilation concerns.


• Erects ladders and scaffolding as needed for assigned work.


• Interprets layouts and estimates time, materials, and labor required for jobs.


• Responds to routine maintenance and emergency calls promptly.

Other Functions

Performs other duties as assigned.

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

• Three (3) years of full-time or equivalent part-time experience in Roofing. A diploma or certificate from a recognized trade, technical or vocational school, at the high school level or higher, with a major in carpentry may be substituted for experience.


• The ability to demonstrate competence in Masonry and Carpentry.


• A valid Massachusetts class D Driver's License.


• Knowledge of Roofing Procedures: Understanding of the principles and techniques related to roofing procedures and repairs.


• Considerable knowledge of the tools, materials, methods, and standard practices specific to the roofing trade.


• Working knowledge of occupational hazards, precautions, and safety procedures in the roofing trade.


• Skill in using both electric and non-electric hand tools relevant to roofing tasks.


• Ability to follow oral and written instructions, as well as read and interpret documents like roofing plans and drawings.


• Capability to make simple estimates of time and materials required for roofing projects.


• Ability to work in confined spaces, climb, and work safely from ladders and scaffolds.


• Capacity to lift and carry heavy roofing materials and equipment.


• Physical stamina and endurance, including the ability to stand for prolonged periods during roofing work.

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

Based on assignment, a valid class B license or a valid CDL license with appropriate endorsements may be required.

Physical Demands/Working Conditions

Requires the ability to balance, carry, push, pull, stand, bend, reach, twist, lift, and perform repetitive movements.

Additional Details

This is a maintenance function which includes overtime, returning to work between shifts when directed or called.

Work Schedule

• Monday - Friday; 7:00am - 3:00pm.


• This position is identified as essential personnel.

Salary Information

Grade 14

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: Dec 9 2024 Eastern Standard Time

Applications close: Mar 7 2025 Eastern Standard Time