Low Voltage Systems Technician

About the Job

The University of Minnesota's Facilities Management (FM) department is responsible for the physical assets of the University to ensure a quality environment for students, faculty, staff and visitors in support of the University's mission of teaching, research and outreach. FM maintains 23 million square feet, with an annual budget of approximately $200 million. FM Technical Services is a department within FM Central Services and serves as the University's in‑house maintenance and installation unit for electronic security systems and other low‑voltage systems on the Twin Cities campus.

The Low Voltage Systems Technician performs skilled‑level cabling, installation, programming, testing, maintenance and repair of video surveillance, intrusion and panic alarm, card access, emergency communication, voice, data, and other low‑voltage systems as requested.

• Maintain and repair video surveillance, burglary and panic alarm, card access, and emergency communications systems; evaluate undocumented and custom‑designed systems; use appropriate procedures for documenting repairs and parts usage.
• Install and test systems, including pulling wire, punching down wire, cross‑connecting circuits, cable management, and testing as directed by written work tasks or by the Field Service Engineer or supervisor.
• Document all maintenance, repairs, and field changes using appropriate procedures.
• Consult with end users and provide training for both new and existing systems.
• Advise system designers on application needs and interface with contractors to ensure correct placement of devices.
• Install, program, and test video surveillance, alarm, card access, and emergency communication systems.
• Document initial programming and all programming changes.
• Accurately enter time, materials, and other job‑related data into billing systems.

Work Environment: The position will operate mostly on job sites across the Twin Cities campus. It may be exposed to extreme weather conditions, construction sites, confined spaces, and potentially hazardous conditions where hearing, visual protection, and other personal protective equipment may be required. The position may require walking, climbing, and crawling in various weather conditions to physically access and view work sites.

Minimum Qualifications: Completion of a two‑year technical school program related to electrical or mechanical systems plus a minimum of four (4) years' work experience in this specialized field; or a BS degree in electrical or mechanical engineering and one year of related work experience. Equivalent combinations of academic and work experience may be substituted for this degree.

• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• Must be able to pass a pre‑employment background check.
• Must possess a Registered Unlicensed Power Limited Technician (PLT) or Power Limited Technician license; registered unlicensed employees must work toward a PLT license. A valid PLT license is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Understanding of centrally controlled access control systems, intrusion and panic alarm systems.
• Understanding of centrally monitored CCTV systems.
• Ability to review and understand design documents (drawings, spec sheets, etc.).
• Ability to listen well and exercise reasonable judgment in application and interpretation of construction standards and building code requirements.
• Ability to coordinate and prioritize multiple tasks, resolve problems, negotiate solutions, and prioritize work to ensure resources are employed appropriately.
• Understanding and use of digital communication, presentation, and document filing systems.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse customer base to address and resolve problems.
• Demonstrated basic understanding of data switches and testing of data circuits.
• Demonstrated high degree of organizational skills that include updating internal database information.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office products.
• Must be able to use computers such as desktops, iPads, etc.

Pay Range: $29.88–$37.34 per hour, depending on education, qualifications, and experience.

Time Appointment Category: 75%–100% appointment (assumed…