The Electrical Technician (Advanced) performs highly skilled and complex electrical work in the installation, maintenance, and repair of campus electrical, electronic, and life-safety systems. This advanced-level position operates with minimal supervision, exercises independent judgment, and supports mission-critical systems across academic, research, residential, and administrative facilities.
Knowledge
- Advanced knowledge of electrical systems, methods, and materials
- Knowledge of NEC (NFPA 70), NFPA 72, OSHA, and NC Fire Code
- Working knowledge of DDC, fire alarm, and low-voltage systems
Skills
- Skill in advanced troubleshooting and repair of electrical and integrated systems
- Skill in interpreting complex drawings, schematics, and wiring diagrams
- Skill in using testing and diagnostic equipment
Abilities
- Ability to perform complex electrical work with minimal supervision
- Ability to exercise independent judgment in problem-solving and decision-making
- Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, contractors, and campus stakeholders
- Ability to work safely in a variety of environments, including heights and confined spaces
Primary Function of Organizational Unit
The Physical Plant is responsible for providing services relative to building and grounds maintenance, utilities, transportation, trash removal, central receiving, recycling, disposition of surplus property and moving and hauling. In addition, the Physical Plant has expanding responsibilities that includes providing support services for the instruction and research programs to achieve the University's mission, goals and objectives. Maintains and improves and expands all campus buildings, campus image and education opportunities for all people. More specifically, the functions involve energy conservation, building renovation/repair, occupational safety and health, landscape design, event planning, vehicle and equipment maintenance/repair, motor pool and housekeeping services to 40 academic buildings, 15 residence halls and 19 farm buildings (15 research and 21 support facilities). Moreover, the Skilled Trades Department is responsible for operation, repair, maintenance and preventive maintenance of campus facilities.
Work Hours 7am-4pm Monday-Friday; rotates working on call/call backs; essential personnel required to work during adverse weather and emergencies. Is this position eligible for a remote or hybrid work arrangement, consistent with university and state policies. On-site (Employees are primarily in the office and/or have a critical job requirement that requires dedicated office space on-site)
Key Responsibilities and Related Competencies
Required Competency Knowledge - Technical Duties
- Performs advanced installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical distribution systems, lighting systems, and low-voltage systems
- Installs, programs, troubleshoots, and maintains direct digital control (DDC) and building automation systems
- Installs, tests, and maintains fire alarm and life-safety systems in accordance with NFPA 72 and NC Fire Code
- Installs, terminates, and troubleshoots fiber-optic and electronic systems, including networked devices
Required Competency Safety and Health Compliance Duties
- Ensures work complies with NEC (NFPA 70), NFPA 72, OSHA, and University safety policies
- Performs and supports fire alarm inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) activities
- Assists with system impairments, restoration, and documentation in compliance with regulatory requirements
- Applies advanced safety practices including lockout/tagout, arc-flash mitigation, and energized work controls
- Identifies hazards and implements corrective actions to reduce risk to personnel and facilities
- Supports emergency response for electrical and life-safety system failures
Required Competency Problem Solving Duties
- Diagnoses and resolves complex electrical and multi-system failures in occupied and mission-critical facilities
- Exercises independent judgment in prioritizing work, determining corrective actions, and restoring system functionality
- Identifies systemic issues and recommends improvements to enhance reliability and performance
Required Competency Client/Customer Service Duties
- Responds to service requests in a professional and timely manner
- Supports campus operations with minimal disruption
- Maintains positive working relationships with campus stakeholders
Required Competency Coordination - Work Duties
- Coordinates work with supervisors, engineers, other trades, contractors, and campus stakeholders
- Supports planned outages and system upgrades to minimize disruption to campus operations
- Provides technical input for maintenance planning and system improvements
- Maintains detailed work order, inspection, and maintenance records in the CMMS
- Documents deficiencies, corrective actions, and system status for compliance and audit purposes
- Assists in maintaining system drawings, documentation, and equipment records