Widener University is currently seeking a Locksmith/Mechanic to join our Facilities Management Department. Reporting to the Assistant Director for Buildings and Grounds, this role operates with minimal supervision and is responsible for the maintenance, operation, and overall condition of campus buildings. Key areas of focus include building appearance, occupant comfort, equipment performance, lighting, life‑safety systems, and building envelope components such as windows, doors, and roofs. The Locksmith/Mechanic also supports the campus locksmith function by performing selected locksmith duties as needed.
Facilities Management staff play a vital role in creating safe, attractive, and well-maintained environments that support the University’s academic mission and daily operations. Our mission is to continuously enhance the quality of our services and ensure that every student, faculty member, staff member, and visitor has the best possible campus experience. All team members may be assigned responsibilities within their capabilities beyond their primary technical specialty and are empowered to take initiative in support of this mission.
This position is designated as essential personnel. The Locksmith/Mechanic must report to and remain on campus during emergencies, even when normal University operations are suspended. The role may also require weekend and off‑hours work to support campus events and operational needs.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (including, but not limited to):
Essential Duties:
Building Operations & Maintenance
- Operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair building systems and equipment per manufacturer guidelines and industry standards.
- Conduct inspections of buildings and roofs.
- Perform preventive maintenance and operational repairs on residential and commercial building systems.
- Maintain mechanical/electrical spaces free of combustible materials to meet risk management standards.
- Remediate visual and operational deficiencies proactively.
General Trades Work
- Perform carpentry, masonry, painting, plumbing, electrical, HVAC tasks within skill level.
- Use hand/power tools, diagnostic/testing instruments, and mobile devices.
- Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and wiring diagrams.
- Coordinate with other trades to complete multi-trade projects efficiently.
Locksmith Duties
- Install, maintain, repair, and adjust locks and related components across campus facilities and vehicles.
- Fabricate and replace keys; maintain commercial and automatic electric hardware.
- Collaborate with Campus Safety to address security breaches.
- Maintain documentation for work orders and locksmith activities.
Secondary Responsibilities
- Assist with furniture and event setups/breakdowns and special function decorations.
- Support emergency response operations, including snow removal.
- Cooperate with university staff and contractors to ensure optimal outcomes.
- Perform other job-related duties as assigned or directed to support departmental needs.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (education/training and experience required):
Required:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Valid driver’s license with proof of insurability.
- Minimum 10 years of experience in building maintenance or related trade.
- Minimum 5 years of locksmithing experience.
- Completion of formal training/licensure in a trade or equivalent experience.
- Certified Registered Locksmith (CRL) designation from ALOA or approved equivalent.
- Proficiency in preventive maintenance, meter reading, and emergency system shutdowns.
- Knowledge of building construction, utilities, life safety systems, and inspection techniques.
- Ability to read and interpret technical documents and safety codes.
- Basic skills in Microsoft Windows and Outlook.
- Strong communication skills and customer service orientation.
Preferred:
- Additional certifications or training in building systems or locksmithing.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND/OR UNUSUAL HOURS:
- Ability to stand, sit, bend, kneel, climb stairs/ladders, and work in confined/ elevated spaces.
- Lift 60 lbs. at waist height and carry for 20 feet; lift 40 lbs. overhead.
- Manual snow shoveling required.
- Must report during emergencies and weather events, even during university closures.
- May be required to work weekends and holidays for special events or operations.
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Widener University is committed to fostering an inclusive community in which faculty, staff, and students from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are welcomed and can thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to providing equal educational and employment opportunities for all persons without regard to age, color, national origin, race, religion, disability, veteran status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or status as a protected veteran.
Widener University, an independent, metropolitan, doctoral-intensive university, connects curricula to social issues through civic engagement. Dynamic teaching, active scholarship, personal attention and experiential learning are key components of the Widener Experience. Located in Chester, PA, Widener's main campus is nestled between Philadelphia, PA and Wilmington, DE, with Law Schools located in both Harrisburg and Wilmington. For more information about the university, please visit our website at www.widener.edu.
EOE M/F/V/D
