Our Organization:

Working from a sincere interest in issues of social justice, William Boyce Thompson founded the Boyce Thompson Institute (BTI) in 1924, believing that basic plant research could lead to real societal benefit. Over the almost 100 years since its founding, BTI has evolved to become a premier life sciences research institution, with scientists conducting investigations into fundamental plant and life sciences research with the goals of increasing food security, improving environmental sustainability in agriculture and making basic discoveries that will enhance human health. BTI, located in Ithaca, New York on the Cornell University campus, employs 150 staff, with scientists from over 40 countries around the world, and has twice been named as one of the Best Companies in New York State.

Summary

The facilities maintenance technician provides maintenance and mechanical support for the research and support staff at the Institute. Also performs preventative maintenance and repair on building and lab equipment.

Essential Job Functions

• Assist research and support staff with equipment, facility breakdowns and research needs.
• Respond to trouble calls, diagnose problems and make the necessary repairs.
• Assist with monitoring the building mechanical systems and utilities for proper operations.
• Assist in preforming regularly scheduled preventative maintenance on all building mechanical equipment and lab equipment.  
• Maintain orderly inventory for replacement parts.
  
• Document preventative maintenance activities.
• Order supplies, move furniture and equipment, prepare facilities for special events.
• Assist Manager and Sr. Mechanic with on-call duties, as needed.
• Assist with set up, preparation and tear down of events.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education and Certification

• High school diploma required.

Experience and Knowledge

Minimum 2-5 years of experience performing maintenance on industrial or commercial building equipment.  General knowledge of all building trades, safe practices in the use of tools, chemicals and equipment and ability to identify and correct hazardous conditions. Preferred experience in electrical, plumbing, controls, refrigeration, HVAC, carpentry, heating and equipment repair. 

Supervisory Responsibilities

No supervisory responsibilities.

Communication Skills

Must be able to read and understand building blueprints and schematics.  Must be able to write basic reports on building equipment. Must be willing to learn software.

Computer Skills

Basic data entry skills, must be willing to learn and use technology.

Travel

Travel generally not required.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

The work is physical in nature. Regular physical exertion is required such as climbing, crouching, crawling, and/or lifting. Ability to lift up to 100 pounds. May be required to push/pull items in excess of 100 pounds. Regular exposure to or use of chemicals, heavy machinery, or other equipment/materials requiring use of personnel protective equipment and safety precautions.

To prevent the infection and spread of COVID-19, and as an integral part of its public health and safety measures, BTI requires that all successful applicants shall be required to show proof of full vaccination by an FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccine before beginning employment, unless an exemption from this policy has been granted as an accommodation or otherwise. Applicants believing, they need an accommodation of this policy because of a disability, sincerely-held religious belief, or otherwise should inform Human Resources after an offer of employment is extended; please do not include any medical, genetic, or religious information on your application materials.

The Boyce Thompson Institute provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type in regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. If you require an accommodation for a disability in order to complete an employment application or to participate in the recruiting process, you are encouraged to send a request for assistance to btihr@cornell.edu. BTI prides itself on family-friendly policies and is committed to helping its staff achieve career success with an appropriate work-life balance.