Plant Laborer

Overview

Purdue University – Physical Facilities. Join a team that powers one of the world’s leading research institutions. At Purdue, you’ll play an essential role in maintaining the systems that keep our campus running safely, sustainably, and efficiently. Every day, your work supports discoveries, learning, and innovation that make a global impact.

Power Plant Laborer

Purdue University – Physical Facilities. Join a team that powers one of the world’s leading research institutions. At Purdue, you’ll play an essential role in maintaining the systems that keep our campus running safely, sustainably, and efficiently. Every day, your work supports discoveries, learning, and innovation that make a global impact.

What You’ll Do

As a Power Plant Laborer, you will perform routine maintenance and assist with various tasks that support the power plant’s safe and efficient operation. You’ll work alongside experienced mechanics and operators, developing technical skills and ensuring our campus systems remain reliable and resilient.

Key Responsibilities Include

• Performing routine preventative maintenance within established time frames and with minimal supervision
• Assisting lead mechanics with corrective work orders, including cleanup of chemical spills once qualified
• Operating overhead cranes and forklifts to unload materials and equipment as needed
• Conducting safety inspections for forklifts, aerial platforms, fire extinguishers, safety showers, eyewash stations, ladders, and vehicles
• Providing confined space entry and fire watch support in accordance with safety protocols
• Assisting with snow and ice removal across facilities
• Supporting operations and maintenance teams with material handling, custodial work, and power plant upkeep
• Training entry-level staff as part of the department’s succession and skill-development initiatives
• Occasional overtime may be required

What We’re Looking For

We’re Seeking Someone Who Takes Pride In Hands-on Work, Values Safety And Teamwork, And Is Eager To Learn And Grow In a Mission-driven Environment. The Ideal Candidate Will

• Demonstrate initiative and reliability
• Show readiness to learn technical tasks and equipment operation
• Value collaboration and contribute to an inclusive workplace
• Be adaptable and willing to assist where needed to keep operations running smoothly

At Purdue, you’ll find your work has purpose. Here, your contributions matter—to your team, to the campus, and to the broader world. You’ll be part of a community that values learning, respect, and continuous improvement while offering stability, growth, and opportunities to learn new skills in a dynamic environment.

Become a vital part of something bigger—empowering the next generation of thinkers, creators, and problem-solvers through the reliable energy systems that fuel Purdue University.

• High School Degree or High School Equivalency (HSE)
• Minimum 3 years of experience required, of which at least 2 years will need to be in general maintenance and the third in maintenance, custodial, or a related field
• Valid driver’s license required

• Must:
• have basic math, reading, and communication skills
• be willing to learn the use of heavy floor care equipment
• be able to work well with others
• Basic computer skills required

• Mechanical aptitude

• Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
• A background check will be required for employment in this position
• FLSA:
  Non-Exempt (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:
Administrative and Operational Support 2. Pay Band S040. Job Code #.

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.

Purdue University is an EOE employer.