Senior Maintenance Specialist - East TN AgResearch & Education Center - Little River Dairy, Walland, TN

Regular Full-time, Market Range 7

SUMMARY: The Senior Maintenance Specialist will lead agricultural research center staff and principle investigators in the design, fabrication, maintenance, and repair of equipment as well as infrastructure. This position will also design a program to keep detailed records of work performed and play a critical role in selection of equipment and infrastructure purchases and repairs to lead innovative agricultural research.

Qualifications:

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct highly specialized and emergency repairs to research equipment and custom-designed infrastructure critical to research center success.
• Design from scratch, install, and oversee repair and preventative maintenance programs for specialized research equipment/infrastructure.
• Keep accurate records regarding equipment/infrastructure repair and maintenance.
• Will design and lead efforts to train research staff on preventative maintenance and routine repairs, and will supervise junior staff regarding site maintenance issues.
• Operate heavy equipment to deliver feed and water to research herd.
• Operate equipment to plant and harvest agricultural crops to be used for research trials and animals. Operate specialized equipment for feeding, transporting, and milking dairy animals.
• Maintain roads, fences, stalls, and parlor areas to ensure research security and continuity.

JOB SKILLS:

• Equipment troubleshooting ability
• Advanced equipment repair skills
• Ability to perform specialized maintenance of light and heavy equipment
• Heavy equipment operation skills including tractors, backhoes, and skid steers
• Knowledge of small engines, plumbing, and electrical systems

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

• Required: High school diploma and a minimum of 5 years relevant experience.
• Preferred: Vocational or technical training - Equipment repair, automotive repair, agriculture and 10 years or more experience.

SALARY AND BENEFITS:

• Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience. Benefits include group health and life insurance; state employee or optional retirement plans; workers' compensation; annual and sick leave, longevity pay, and more.

EFFECTIVE DATE:

• June 3, 2024 Screening of applicants' credentials will begin May 28, 2024, and may continue until the position is filled.

TO APPLY:

• Interested candidates must complete an online application https://hr.utk.edu/staffpositions