Lead Plumber

The Berkeley Lab is hiring a Lead Plumber. As part of the Facilities Division’s Maintenance & Operations (M&O) Department, the Lead Plumber will perform plumbing tasks while leading and overseeing assigned personnel. Responsibilities include distributing daily assignments, managing work orders, and ensuring adherence to the weekly schedule.

The role includes safety oversight through daily pre-job briefings and field supervision, ensuring all work meets safety and quality standards. The Lead Plumber will work independently on routine tasks and collaborate with supervisors when significant hazards arise.

This position involves identifying and solving problems, developing solutions, and partnering with internal stakeholders—such as Planners, Schedulers, and Facilities Area Managers—by providing expert technical input. Duties also include quoting, ordering materials, and supporting work execution.

Additional responsibilities include enforcing Lab policies, providing performance feedback to supervisors, and translating job requirements into specific assignments for the team.

What You Will Do:

• Provide leadership and oversight to plumbing staff by assigning daily tasks, conducting safety briefings, and ensuring compliance with Work Control Documents and Lab safety standards.
• Use Computer Maintenance Management System, (CMMS) tools (e.g., Maximo, DataSplice, Akwire) and online resources to manage work orders and procure parts and materials.
• Perform journey-level plumbing and pipefitting, including installation, maintenance, and repair of piping systems, valves, fixtures, regulators, and research equipment.
• Read and interpret blueprints, sketches, and verbal instructions from engineers and planners.
• Use manual and power tools to cut, bend, solder, thread, and assemble piping systems.
• Modify and repair sanitary waste and storm drain systems.
• Ensure proper use of PPE and enforce safety protocols among assigned staff.
• Adhere to all DOE, Federal, State, and local safety and environmental regulations, including those related to hazardous materials, asbestos, and waste management.
• Identify and report hazards, stop unsafe work, and ensure corrective actions are taken before proceeding.
• Maintain compliance with Lab policies (Pub. 3000, RPM Manual) and complete required training.
• Communicate effectively with team members, stakeholders, and Lab personnel.
• Act as supervisor in their absence, demonstrating knowledge of Lab and Division procedures.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Perform fire sprinkler repair as needed.

What is Required:

• Completion of a formal apprenticeship, vocational training, or equivalent experience.
• Valid California Driver’s License.
• Strong knowledge of plumbing codes and ability to assess job requirements, propose materials, methods, and layouts.
• Ability to identify mechanical components, chemical handling requirements, and system functions.
• Proficient in basic math, algebra, and geometry for layout and measurements.
• Physically able to lift 50 lbs., climb ladders, work at heights, in confined spaces, and perform manual tasks.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and technical troubleshooting skills.
• Proven leadership with the ability to plan, assign, and oversee team tasks.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and interpersonal skills.
• Able to work independently on complex tasks and resolve conflicts effectively.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including reporting and radio/phone use.
• Proficient in computer systems for work order management and communication.

Desired Qualifications:

• Isometric sketching skills preferred.
• Familiarity with LBNL facilities, operations, key personnel, procurement, safety, and design procedures.
• Experience in a unionized work environment.
• Proven ability to delegate, lead, or supervise a team.

Notes:

• This is a full-time career appointment, exempt (monthly paid) from overtime pay.
• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.
• The hourly rate for this position is $77.47.  The hourly rate for this position is predetermined based on collective bargaining agreements set rates.
• This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• Work will be primarily performed at: Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.

Berkeley Lab is a University of California employer. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.