Job Summary

Power Plant Maintenance Mechanic
Purdue University – West Lafayette, Indiana

Be part of powering what’s next at Purdue.

At Purdue, every role contributes to something greater — a campus that fuels discovery, learning, and innovation. As a Power Plant Maintenance Mechanic, you’ll play an essential part in keeping our facilities running safely and reliably so students, faculty, and researchers can focus on moving the world forward. Learn what it takes to keep Purdue's Power Plant operating in a reliable and efficient way.  A Wade Mechanic may perform a variety of tasks ranging from simple cleaning to complete bearing rebuilds.  Experience a range of industrial decades by working in a Legacy Power Plant.  

What You’ll Do:

• Perform preventive maintenance and repairs on all Power Plant equipment
• Diagnose issues, complete minor and major repairs, and carry out complete overhauls as needed
• Partner with the maintenance crew chief and senior mechanic to ensure safe, reliable plant operations
• Participate in the maintenance department’s emergency on-call rotation; may be required to carry a pager and/or cell phone

What You’ll Bring:

• Proven mechanical aptitude with hands-on troubleshooting and repair experience
• Commitment to safety, teamwork, and reliability
• Initiative to support continuous improvement and operational excellence

Why Purdue?
At Purdue, we don’t just maintain systems — we sustain possibility. Our team members are part of a community that values expertise, growth, and purpose-driven work. You’ll find opportunities to learn, advance, and take pride in supporting a world-class university dedicated to building a better future.

Join a team that powers Purdue. Apply today and become part of the tradition of excellence that keeps our campus running strong.

About Us

When you join Purdue University, you join a community that keeps moving forward. For more than 150 years, we’ve been known for not only our groundbreaking work in STEM research, but also for our collective imagination, ingenuity and innovation. 

What We're Looking For

Education and Experience Required:

• High School Degree or High School Equivalency (HSE) 
• Three (3) years of experience in equipment maintenance, troubleshooting and repair
• Valid driver’s license. Be able to obtain CDL license within first year of employment

Preferred:

• Power plant experience
• CDL license
• Advanced computer skills

Skills Needed:

• Basic math skills – Basic computer skills – Welding and Fabrication
• Must have:
  • or have the ability to obtain Physical Plant license to operate fork truck and lifts within three months
  • the ability to read and interpret blueprints
  • skills in operating a variety of tools and equipment including (but not limited to) overhead cranes and man lifts
  • the ability to assist with the installation, repair and maintenance of all power plant equipment
  • ability to properly install, repair, and maintain pumps, valves, filters, air compressors and assist in chiller maintenance
  • the ability to learn and demonstrate the skills required for progression in the Milestone Program
• Must be able to work:
  • in a high-pressure environment and communicate effectively (verbally and in writing) with various types of people
  • from heights up to 100 feet

Additional Information:

• Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position  
• A background check will be required for employment in this position
• FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible for Overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility:  Non-exempt Defined Contribution Plan
• Benefit Statement: Purdue University offers a substantial Benefit Package including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous paid time off package for sick and vacation days

Career Stream

Fire, Police, and Skilled Trades 2

• Pay Band S055
• Job Code #20003676

Career path maker: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/careerpathmaker/

Who We Are

Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Purdue University is an EOE employer.