Electrician

Uncommon Schools is a nonprofit network of high-performing public charter schools dedicated to providing an exceptional K-12 education in economically disadvantaged communities. Operating in Boston, Camden, New York City, Newark, and Rochester, we are committed to closing the college completion gap and preparing every student for college and beyond. Our students consistently exceed national benchmarks, reflecting our dedication to their success. We invest deeply in our educators, offering weekly coaching, feedback, and professional development to ensure excellence in teaching and leadership. Join us to work hard, do good, and make a lasting difference!

Uncommon Schools is seeking an Electrician to join the charter network’s New Jersey Facilities team. This position provides an opportunity for an experienced electrician with at least seven (7) years' relevant experience to work with a dedicated facilities group, deepen his/her technical skills, and help ensure that Uncommon provides well-maintained, comfortable, and safe educational facilities for our students and staff.  

Reporting to the Senior Manager, Facilities Management Team, the Electrician will perform all technical work necessary to inspect, maintain, repair, and modify electrical systems, including wiring, control systems, lighting fixtures, and equipment across a range of building types.  

With expertise in electrical work – and to some extent in construction, plumbing, and HVAC – in multi-family, schools, and commercial buildings, the successful candidate will be responsible for completing both minor and more significant electrical projects and ensuring they are completed on time and within budget. The Electrician may partner with Facilities team members and outside consultants on the planning, coordination, and supervision of electrical activities implemented by outside vendors, as well as directly implement the electrical components of HVAC and other renovation and construction projects. The Electrician will handle all electrical-related communication with stakeholders.

Uncommon values candidates who have the drive and ability to work hard, are highly self-motivated, are eager to take on and implement assignments and projects, and have a strong commitment to customer service and satisfaction.  

Essential Duties & Responsibilities  

Safe, efficient, healthy, clean, comfortable, and reliable buildings are essential to Uncommon’s mission to deliver an excellent education to our students and a comfortable working environment to our dedicated staff.

As a member of the NJ Facilities Team, the Electrician will 

• install, maintain, and repair electrical systems, including wiring, control systems, lighting fixtures, and equipment
• implement minor electrical installations, ensuring compliance with blueprints and specifications
• diagnose and resolve electrical issues and malfunctions efficiently and effectively using various testing devices and tools
• inspect transformers, circuit breakers, and other electrical components for compliance with safety standards and local building codes, including the National Electrical Code (NEC)
• conduct routine inspections and preventive maintenance to prevent system breakdowns and ensure the long-term reliability of electrical systems
• maintain up-to-date knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and other applicable building codes and perform all facets of the electrical trade in accordance with those codes and in a safe and effective manner
• diagnose problems with electrical systems, evaluate solutions to remedy issues, and provide sound recommendations to supervisors  
• collaborate with other electricians, engineers, general contractors, and other tradespeople on large-scale projects to ensure smooth operations and project completion
• in emergency situations take immediate steps to contain the problem and restore the system to sound working condition
• in emergency situations maintain clear and consistent communication with stakeholders to apprise them of steps being taken to address the issue
• maintain records of corrective and preventive work assignments received through an automated work order system (currently SchoolDude, soon ZenDesk)
• assist onsite Facilities Managers and General Maintenance Workers with work projects or special assignments
• respond to campus emergency calls after hours as needed
• perform other duties as assigned

Required Technical Skills

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical diagrams, and electrical code specifications to plan and implement electrical work accurately
• Understanding of electrical codes in Newark and Camden
• Comfortable using hand and power tools such as wire strippers, multimeters, drills, saws, conduit benders, ammeters, voltmeters, and thermal scanners

• Familiarity with thermographic electrical panel inspection 
• Ability to service 360 and 480 switchgear
• Comfortable serving and upgrading outdated building electrical systems 
• Ability to add new circuits to existing electrical systems 
• Ability to run wire and cables of various gauges to repair or upgrade electrical systems 
• Ability to lay out and bend conduit  
• Ability to retrofit light fixtures to LED
• Ability to change breakers, switches, outlets, and light fixtures 
• Ability to repair and run data cables
• Ability to read wiring diagrams for many types of equipment
• Ability to troubleshoot and implement recommended repair/replacement of
  • VFD and motor starters 
  • low voltage 12/24 systems 
  • boiler electrical and control circuits
  • HVAC electrical and control circuits 

General Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree equivalent or seven plus (7+) years servicing existing or installing new electrical systems

• Evidence of progressive responsibility and experience in electrical field, with four plus (4+) years as head technician 
• Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously
• Familiarity with key building systems (HVAC, electrical, mechanical, plumbing) 
• Familiarity with OSHA and other Life Safety codes, etc. 
• Facility with Microsoft office suite
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and follow-through 
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and electronically with facilities staff, school staff, and vendors  
• Available to work nights and weekends when necessary 
• Extreme flexibility, with a strong work ethic and an entrepreneurial spirit to accommodate high level of responsibility and multiple priorities
• Valid NJ Electrician license
• New Jersey low pressure black seal boiler, HVAC or other certificate, training, or licenses a plus 
• Valid driver’s license and vehicle
• Strong capacity to operate independently 
• Must be able to pass a background check 

Physical Requirements

The physical requirements outlined below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position.

• Stand or walk for up to two (2) hours at one time, up to eight (8) hours per day

• Sit for fewer than two (2) hours during an eight (8)-hour day 
• Lift or carry up to 35 pounds frequently and 100 pounds occasionally  
• Lift up to 100 pounds to waist height and up to 35 pounds in a range of motions from floor to overhead
• Frequently use hands for simple grasping, fine manipulation, pushing or pulling 
• Occasionally climb stairs or ladders, dig, or pull with forces up to 100 pounds 
• Frequently bend, squat, kneel, knee stand, lift overhead, reach overhead, push, or pull 
• Work outdoors in a variety of temperatures and environmental conditions 
• Possess ability to work at heights, full range of body motions and physical agility, and ability to maintain balance  
• Manual dexterity and fine motor skills for working with intricate wiring and components
• Ability to distinguish between colors for identifying electrical wires

Mission Alignment

• Demonstrate a relentless drive to improve the minds and lives of students in and out of school RE
• Demonstrate a commitment to the schools’ rules, regulations, and safety procedures
• Implement and enhance the school’s systems and culture Create high accountability for oneself as well as for building staff and vendors

Our people are what make us Uncommon. We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits that support the personal health, wellness, and finances of our staff and their families. Our compensation philosophy values equity & fairness and attracting & retaining top talent. [same for all roles]

Compensation 

Compensation for this role is between $40/hr to $47/hr, commensurate with experience. Starting pay is determined using various factors including but not limited to relevant professional experience, education, certifications, and tenure with Uncommon Schools. 

Benefits

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision insurance plans
• 403(b) retirement savings program + employer match
• Paid leave of absence options (parental, medical, disability, etc.)
• Mental health and counseling support + wellness benefits
• Pre-tax flexible spending, dependent care, and health saving accounts

*A detailed list of all benefits is located HERE.

At Uncommon, we believe that a supportive and welcoming environment helps our students, staff, and community thrive. We are dedicated to building a team that brings a wide range of perspectives and experiences, reflective of the communities we serve---with over 70% of our staff identifying as people of color. Our organization values respect and open dialogue on important topics that shape our school culture.

As an equal opportunity employer, Uncommon provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without 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. We also ensure that individuals with disabilities receive all privileges and benefits associated with employment and are provided reasonable accommodations for the interview process and to perform core job functions. If you would like to request an accommodation, please email [email protected].