Job Summary:
The Plumbing Installation and Repair Supervisor with heavy work is responsible for overseeing the installation, repair, and maintenance of plumbing systems in commercial, residential, and industrial settings. The role involves supervising a team of plumbers, ensuring the timely and efficient completion of plumbing projects, and maintaining a high level of quality and safety standards. This supervisor position requires hands-on experience with complex plumbing installations and repairs, as well as the ability to lead and direct staff in heavy physical labor environments.
Key Responsibilities:
Supervise Plumbing Operations
- Manage and supervise a team of plumbers, apprentices, and laborers during plumbing installation and repair projects.
Ensure adherence to safety standards, building codes, and regulations on all plumbing projects.
Assign tasks and monitor the progress of installations, repairs, and maintenance to ensure deadlines and quality standards are met.
Project Oversight
- Lead plumbing installations and repairs for large-scale or complex systems, including commercial, industrial, and heavy-duty residential systems.
Plan and coordinate project schedules, materials, tools, and manpower needed for each project.
Troubleshoot and resolve complex plumbing issues, including diagnosing and repairing leaks, pipe bursts, drainage problems, and water supply malfunctions.
Quality Control and Inspection
- Perform regular inspections to ensure that all plumbing work meets regulatory and safety requirements.
Verify that installations are done according to design specifications, manufacturer instructions, and quality standards.
Approve final plumbing work and sign off on completed projects.
Health, Safety, and Compliance
- Enforce safety standards and ensure compliance with local, state, and national plumbing codes.
Conduct regular safety meetings and toolbox talks to educate staff on safety procedures, tools, and equipment handling.
Ensure that personal protective equipment (PPE) is worn at all times and that the worksite is free of hazards.
Training and Development
- Train, mentor, and guide junior staff, including apprentices and new team members, on plumbing techniques, tools, and safety practices.
Promote professional development opportunities for team members to improve skillsets and career progression.
Customer Service and Communication
- Interface with clients to discuss their plumbing needs, project timelines, and any special requirements.
Maintain open communication with clients and stakeholders to ensure customer satisfaction and project updates.
Address any complaints or concerns from clients regarding plumbing installations or repairs.
Equipment and Materials Management
- Oversee the procurement and maintenance of plumbing tools, materials, and equipment needed for projects.
Ensure that all tools and equipment are in proper working order and perform regular inventory checks.
Record Keeping and Reporting
- Maintain accurate records of all work performed, including job details, materials used, time spent, and any issues encountered.
Report on project progress, team performance, and any issues or delays to upper management.
Job Requirements:
Experience
- Minimum of 3-5 years of hands-on plumbing experience, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role overseeing installations and repairs.
Experience working on heavy-duty plumbing systems in commercial, industrial, and/or large residential environments.
Familiarity with plumbing software and/or project management tools is a plus.
Technical Skills
- In-depth knowledge of plumbing systems, including pipes, fittings, drains, water supply lines, valves, heating, and cooling systems.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and plumbing codes.
Skilled in the use of plumbing tools and equipment, including pipe benders, wrenches, threading machines, and power tools.
Understanding of local, state, and national plumbing codes and standards (e.g., Uniform Plumbing Code, National Standard Plumbing Code).
Physical Requirements
- Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting heavy pipes and tools, bending, kneeling, and working in tight spaces.
Ability to work in various weather conditions and environments (including outdoor and indoor settings).
Must be able to work on your feet for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.
Leadership & Management Skills
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate, guide, and manage a team effectively.
Ability to manage multiple projects and tasks simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail.
Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot complex plumbing issues.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills for interacting with clients, staff, and management.
Work Environment
- Ability to work in both indoor and outdoor environments with exposure to varying weather conditions.
Willingness to work overtime, weekends, or after-hours as needed to meet project deadlines or emergencies.
Physical Stamina and Strength
- Heavy Lifting and Physical Labor: The supervisor must be able to lift and carry heavy materials such as pipes, fixtures, and equipment that can weigh 50-100 lbs or more. This includes handling and maneuvering large sections of pipe or complex plumbing systems, sometimes in challenging positions or tight spaces.
- Endurance: The role requires long hours of physical labor, including bending, kneeling, climbing ladders, or working in confined spaces. Supervisors must have the stamina to work through physically demanding days, sometimes in uncomfortable or awkward positions.
Comfort with Working in Challenging Environments
- Outdoor and Indoor Work: Supervisors must be able to work in various conditions, including extreme heat, cold, or wet environments. Plumbing installations may require work at height (roof installations), in trenches, or in crawl spaces, so the ability to work in diverse environments and weather conditions is crucial.
- Confined Spaces: Some plumbing installations require working in small, tight areas (such as crawl spaces, attics, or behind walls), demanding flexibility and the ability to navigate in restrictive spaces for long periods.
Supervisory and Leadership Skills in High-Pressure Situations
- Team Management in Heavy Work: Supervising a team in physically demanding environments requires strong leadership skills. The supervisor must be able to direct a crew effectively, ensuring safety and proper technique while keeping morale high in challenging conditions.
- Delegating Tasks: Assigning tasks based on the team's physical strengths and expertise is essential. A supervisor should understand when to step in and take over tasks and when to allow team members to handle the heavy lifting themselves.
- Time and Resource Management: Managing heavy workloads requires clear scheduling, prioritization of tasks, and ensuring the proper equipment and materials are available for the crew. The supervisor must be able to coordinate heavy tasks efficiently without compromising safety or quality.
Problem-Solving Under Physical and Mental Stress
- Troubleshooting Complex Problems: Plumbing issues in heavy-duty environments often involve complicated systems or hard-to-reach components. Supervisors must be able to quickly identify and resolve issues in real time, balancing physical work with critical thinking.
- Decision-Making in High-Pressure Situations: When projects fall behind or unforeseen obstacles arise (e.g., difficult weather, damaged materials, unsafe conditions), the supervisor must remain calm and make effective decisions to keep the team on track.
Adaptability to Changing Situations
- Adjusting to Project Scope Changes: Heavy work often comes with unexpected challenges, such as changes in project scope, unanticipated complications, or supply delays. The supervisor must be able to adjust work plans and schedules without sacrificing safety or quality.
Summary of Key Abilities:
- Physical strength, stamina, and endurance for heavy lifting and long hours of manual labor.
- Ability to work in tough environments, including confined spaces and adverse weather conditions.
- Leadership skills to manage and motivate a team in physically demanding situations.
- Problem-solving abilities for troubleshooting and resolving issues quickly.
- Expertise in safety standards, ensuring compliance with safety protocols in physically challenging conditions.
- Experience with specialized tools and equipment necessary for heavy-duty plumbing tasks.
- Adaptability and mental toughness to work under pressure and in changing work conditions.
- Clear communication skills to ensure team coordination and safety.
