What are the responsibilities and job description for the Trades Generalist - Facilities Services, Structural Trades position at State University of New York at Fredonia?
Location: Fredonia, NY Category: Custodial/Maintenance/Trades Posted On: Tue Feb 3 2026 Job Description:
The Facilities Services - Structural Trades Unit has a vacancy for a Trades Generalist position for the following shift:
First shift - 7:00 am-3:30 pm, Monday to Friday
This position is full-time, probationary/permanent, CSEA represented, SG12 position with an entry-level salary of $50,425..
Brief Description of Class
A Trades Generalist performs journey-level work in one trade, and skilled and semiskilled level work in a combination of other trades in the repair and maintenance of facilities and equipment. Incumbents may supervise others in maintenance, repair, installation, and construction activities.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Trades Generalist: non-competitive; functions as a skilled worker in a primary trade, and also performs a variety of skilled and semiskilled activities in one or a combination of other related trades in response to maintenance program requirements.
Trades Generalists are assigned either to a small State facility where the incumbent functions in the only journey-level maintenance position, or where the organization of work and the maintenance program require the flexibility afforded by this classification. Incumbents of positions in this latter setting may work with individuals whose positions are classified according to specific trades. Trades Generalists, like other journey-level positions, plan and lay out construction, repair, and maintenance projects.
Related Classes
The specialized trades titles, such as Trades Specialist (Carpenter), Trades Specialist (Electrician), Trades Specialist (Plumber & Steamfitter), Trades Specialist (Sign Fabrication) and Service & Repair Mechanic (Motor Equipment), are distinguished from Trades Generalist by the performance of journey-level work in a single trade generally on a full-time basis.
A Maintenance Assistant performs semiskilled maintenance, repair, and related activities; and may perform many of the same maintenance tasks as a skilled tradesperson in one or a combination of crafts, usually under the supervision of a skilled tradesperson.
Illustrative Tasks
The services performed by Trades Generalists vary from position to position so that the listing of specific activities and tasks is impracticable. However, Trades Generalists have one responsibility in common, that of performing a variety of skilled and semiskilled maintenance, repair, installation, and construction tasks in the mechanical, building, motor equipment, and electrical trades.
Classification standards describing the activities and tasks performed by specialized trades include, but are not limited to, Trades Specialist (Carpenter), Occ. Code 7120100; Trades Specialist (Electrician), Occ. Code 7120120; Trades Specialist (Painter), Occ. Code 7120110; Service & Repair Mechanic (Motor Equipment), Occ. Code 7347130; Trades Specialist (Plumber & Steamfitter), Occ. Code 7120160; Trades Specialist (Sign Fabrication), Occ. Code 7120185; and Trades Specialist (Mason & Plasterer), Occ. Code 7120150.
Classification standards describing other classes involved in maintenance, repair, and related activities include Maintenance Assistant, Occ. Code 7202000; and Facility Operations Assistant 1, Occ. Code 3010100.
The services performed by Trades Generalists vary from position to position so that the listing of specific activities and tasks is impracticable. However, Trades Generalists have one responsibility in common, that of performing a variety of skilled and semiskilled maintenance, repair, installation, and construction tasks in the mechanical, building, motor equipment, and electrical trades.
CARPENTRY
Builds, repairs, and installs such items as counters, cabinets, benches, partitions, floors, doors, windows, building framework, roofs, and trim following verbal or written instructions utilizing the tools of the carpentry trade and following standard carpentry techniques.
Installs and repairs ceiling and floor tiles.
Does general millwork; may build cabinets, furniture, and other wooden equipment in the shop using woodworking machines.
Maintains shop machinery.
May keep inventory and control of the distribution of carpentry tools and equipment and maintain such equipment.
May conduct inspections of the facility to determine maintenance needs and recommend priorities for repair based on the nature of the maintenance problem.
Trades Specialists may supervise and instruct others in the construction and repair of structures and other wooden items.
Assigns work to a maintenance staff.
May draw rough sketches or prepare plans to scale from verbal or written instructions to accomplish a project.
May review plans and recommend and order the kind, quantity, and quality of materials to be used.
Assembles materials, tools, and equipment required to accomplish the work according to plan.
Lays out the work for staff and performs such skilled tasks as laying out the cutting of roof trusses and stairs, hanging doors, and installing hardware.
May give verbal instruction and/or demonstrate proper carpentry techniques and the use of carpentry tools and equipment.
Observes and inspects work in progress and when completed to ensure that the job is done properly.
MASONRY
Lays building materials such as stone, brick, and concrete cinder block to construct or repair walls, partitions, utility manholes, firebrick linings in furnaces, and chimneys.
Lays out work following blueprints and specifications by measuring distance from reference points and marking guidelines on working surface.
Mixes or directs the mixing of mortar.
Spreads mortar on working surface and to block or stone and positions and aligns the block using a plumb bob, gauge line, and level.
Removes excess mortar from the face of block and finishes mortar between brick with pointing tool or trowel.
CONCRETE
Smooths and finishes surfaces of poured concrete floors, walls, and sidewalks to specified texture.
May mix or direct the mixing of concrete.
Spreads concrete to specified depth and workable consistency.
Levels and smooths the surface of freshly poured concrete using straightedge and float.
Removes rough or defective spots and patches holes with fresh concrete.
Applies ceramic tiles to walls, floors, and ceilings.
Prepares surface by removing damaged tiles or applies plaster or concrete base.
Spreads adhesive base on surface.
Cuts, shapes, and applies tiles to surface according to specifications.
PLASTER
Applies coats of plaster to walls and ceilings.
Mixes or directs the mixing of plaster and the erection of scaffolds if needed.
Removes broken or loose plaster and otherwise prepares the surface.
Applies scratch coat of plaster.
Applies finish coats of plaster to desired thickness and texture.
BLUEPRINTS/SKETCHES
May draw rough sketches or prepare plans to scale from oral or written instructions to accomplish the project.
From blueprints, specifications, or oral or written instructions, may estimate labor, materials, tools and equipment necessary for the project.
Assembles materials, tools, and equipment required to complete the project according to plans.
Independence of Operation
Trades Generalists are supervised by higher-level trades positions, such as Trades Supervisor (Carpenter), Maintenance Supervisor 1, 2 or 3, or a program administrator with varied responsibilities, in addition to facilities and equipment maintenance and repair. Generally, work priorities are prescribed, material is furnished, the nature and extent of the work to be performed is given, and detailed plans, diagrams, and specifications are provided. However, a Trades Generalist may be required to work from rough sketches or from oral instructions.
Although the work of a Trades Generalist is inspected periodically by the supervisor, incumbents are expected to work with considerable independence as is typical of a skilled tradesperson.
Communication
The nature of a Trades Generalists activities generally restricts relationships to employees working within the same organization unit, including skilled tradespersons in other trades. However, incumbents may be expected to orally communicate with administrators and others in an agency or facility on the reasons why work is being accomplished in the manner selected.
Trades Generalists may supervise a maintenance staff. Such relationships are characterized by frequent oral communications in assigning work and providing instructions. Written and oral communications with the general public are not typical of this class. Although incumbents may have frequent verbal relationships with others, the tasks of this class are predominantly thing-oriented and involvement with others is not a factor in determining its classification.
Supervision Exercised
A Trades Generalist may supervise a subordinate maintenance staff and/or individuals for whom the State has custody or responsibility by making assignments, giving instructions, and observing and inspecting work performed to ensure that instructions have been followed and that the quality of the work is satisfactory.
Rewards & Benefits
Competitive compensation plus comprehensive benefits plan including health, dental, and vision insurance and retirement plan options including a fixed pension plan or a 401(A) with generous employer contributions;
Paid leave provisions including sick and holiday leave; impressive educational benefits including tuition-free study plus supplemental tuition aid;
A rich array of services, programs and benefits to help employees advance in their career and enhance the quality of their personal life, including professional development programs and services, employee EAP and wellness programs, discounted membership to the on-campus fitness center, and access to the Campus and Community Child Care Center.
Job Requirements:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
As per the Department of Civil Service:
Non-competitive :
Four years of full-time experience in a trade under a skilled tradesperson
OR a completed apprenticeship;
OR completion of an equivalent program at a technical trades school, institute, or of the Armed Services;
OR an equivalent combination of experience and training gained by completion of technical courses in skilled trades at a school, institute, or branch of the Armed Services.
When required to operate motor vehicles, candidates must possess a valid state driver's license appropriate for the type of vehicle to be operated.
Additional Information:
This position is full-time, Salary Grade 12, CSEA represented position, with an entry level salary of $50,425.
Trades Specialists are considered Essential Service as per the Essential Service Policy. Fredonia employees designated essential must remain on duty or report to work at or before their scheduled starting time to avoid interruption of essential services unless directed or permitted to do otherwise, by their immediate supervisor.
Must be available for overtime hours when it is necessary to meet the operating needs of the department. Since activities of other employees depend upon the performance of the employee in this position, reliable attendance and record of dependability are required. Ability to work as a team and to communicate well with other employees is required.
Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Fredonia prides itself on an outstanding workforce. To continually support organizational excellence, the university conducts background screens on applicants.
An Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer, Fredonia provides for, and promotes, equal opportunity employment, compensation, and other terms and conditions of employment, without discrimination.
Pursuant to University policy, the University is committed to fostering a diverse community of outstanding faculty, staff, and students, as well as ensuring equal educational opportunity, employment, and access to services, programs, and activities, without regard to an individual's race, color, national origin, religion, creed, age, disability, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, familial status, pregnancy, predisposing genetic characteristics, military status, or domestic violence victim status. Employees, students, applicants or other members of the University community (including but not limited to vendors, visitors, and guests) may not be subjected to harassment that is prohibited by law, or treated adversely or retaliated against based upon a protected characteristic.
The University's policy is in accordance with federal and state laws and regulations prohibiting unlawful discrimination and harassment. These laws include the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as Amended by the Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1972, and the New York State Human Rights Law. These laws prohibit discrimination and harassment, including sexual harassment and sexual violence.
Pursuant to Executive Order 161, no State entity, as defined by the Executive Order, is permitted to ask, or mandate, in any form, that an applicant for employment provide his or her current compensation, or any prior compensation history, until such time as the applicant is extended a conditional offer of employment with compensation. If such information has been requested from you before such time, please contact the Governor's Office of Employee Relations at (518) 474-6988 or via email at info@goer.ny.gov .
The Facilities Services - Structural Trades Unit has a vacancy for a Trades Generalist position for the following shift:
First shift - 7:00 am-3:30 pm, Monday to Friday
This position is full-time, probationary/permanent, CSEA represented, SG12 position with an entry-level salary of $50,425..
Brief Description of Class
A Trades Generalist performs journey-level work in one trade, and skilled and semiskilled level work in a combination of other trades in the repair and maintenance of facilities and equipment. Incumbents may supervise others in maintenance, repair, installation, and construction activities.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Trades Generalist: non-competitive; functions as a skilled worker in a primary trade, and also performs a variety of skilled and semiskilled activities in one or a combination of other related trades in response to maintenance program requirements.
Trades Generalists are assigned either to a small State facility where the incumbent functions in the only journey-level maintenance position, or where the organization of work and the maintenance program require the flexibility afforded by this classification. Incumbents of positions in this latter setting may work with individuals whose positions are classified according to specific trades. Trades Generalists, like other journey-level positions, plan and lay out construction, repair, and maintenance projects.
Related Classes
The specialized trades titles, such as Trades Specialist (Carpenter), Trades Specialist (Electrician), Trades Specialist (Plumber & Steamfitter), Trades Specialist (Sign Fabrication) and Service & Repair Mechanic (Motor Equipment), are distinguished from Trades Generalist by the performance of journey-level work in a single trade generally on a full-time basis.
A Maintenance Assistant performs semiskilled maintenance, repair, and related activities; and may perform many of the same maintenance tasks as a skilled tradesperson in one or a combination of crafts, usually under the supervision of a skilled tradesperson.
Illustrative Tasks
The services performed by Trades Generalists vary from position to position so that the listing of specific activities and tasks is impracticable. However, Trades Generalists have one responsibility in common, that of performing a variety of skilled and semiskilled maintenance, repair, installation, and construction tasks in the mechanical, building, motor equipment, and electrical trades.
Classification standards describing the activities and tasks performed by specialized trades include, but are not limited to, Trades Specialist (Carpenter), Occ. Code 7120100; Trades Specialist (Electrician), Occ. Code 7120120; Trades Specialist (Painter), Occ. Code 7120110; Service & Repair Mechanic (Motor Equipment), Occ. Code 7347130; Trades Specialist (Plumber & Steamfitter), Occ. Code 7120160; Trades Specialist (Sign Fabrication), Occ. Code 7120185; and Trades Specialist (Mason & Plasterer), Occ. Code 7120150.
Classification standards describing other classes involved in maintenance, repair, and related activities include Maintenance Assistant, Occ. Code 7202000; and Facility Operations Assistant 1, Occ. Code 3010100.
The services performed by Trades Generalists vary from position to position so that the listing of specific activities and tasks is impracticable. However, Trades Generalists have one responsibility in common, that of performing a variety of skilled and semiskilled maintenance, repair, installation, and construction tasks in the mechanical, building, motor equipment, and electrical trades.
CARPENTRY
Builds, repairs, and installs such items as counters, cabinets, benches, partitions, floors, doors, windows, building framework, roofs, and trim following verbal or written instructions utilizing the tools of the carpentry trade and following standard carpentry techniques.
Installs and repairs ceiling and floor tiles.
Does general millwork; may build cabinets, furniture, and other wooden equipment in the shop using woodworking machines.
Maintains shop machinery.
May keep inventory and control of the distribution of carpentry tools and equipment and maintain such equipment.
May conduct inspections of the facility to determine maintenance needs and recommend priorities for repair based on the nature of the maintenance problem.
Trades Specialists may supervise and instruct others in the construction and repair of structures and other wooden items.
Assigns work to a maintenance staff.
May draw rough sketches or prepare plans to scale from verbal or written instructions to accomplish a project.
May review plans and recommend and order the kind, quantity, and quality of materials to be used.
Assembles materials, tools, and equipment required to accomplish the work according to plan.
Lays out the work for staff and performs such skilled tasks as laying out the cutting of roof trusses and stairs, hanging doors, and installing hardware.
May give verbal instruction and/or demonstrate proper carpentry techniques and the use of carpentry tools and equipment.
Observes and inspects work in progress and when completed to ensure that the job is done properly.
MASONRY
Lays building materials such as stone, brick, and concrete cinder block to construct or repair walls, partitions, utility manholes, firebrick linings in furnaces, and chimneys.
Lays out work following blueprints and specifications by measuring distance from reference points and marking guidelines on working surface.
Mixes or directs the mixing of mortar.
Spreads mortar on working surface and to block or stone and positions and aligns the block using a plumb bob, gauge line, and level.
Removes excess mortar from the face of block and finishes mortar between brick with pointing tool or trowel.
CONCRETE
Smooths and finishes surfaces of poured concrete floors, walls, and sidewalks to specified texture.
May mix or direct the mixing of concrete.
Spreads concrete to specified depth and workable consistency.
Levels and smooths the surface of freshly poured concrete using straightedge and float.
Removes rough or defective spots and patches holes with fresh concrete.
Applies ceramic tiles to walls, floors, and ceilings.
Prepares surface by removing damaged tiles or applies plaster or concrete base.
Spreads adhesive base on surface.
Cuts, shapes, and applies tiles to surface according to specifications.
PLASTER
Applies coats of plaster to walls and ceilings.
Mixes or directs the mixing of plaster and the erection of scaffolds if needed.
Removes broken or loose plaster and otherwise prepares the surface.
Applies scratch coat of plaster.
Applies finish coats of plaster to desired thickness and texture.
BLUEPRINTS/SKETCHES
May draw rough sketches or prepare plans to scale from oral or written instructions to accomplish the project.
From blueprints, specifications, or oral or written instructions, may estimate labor, materials, tools and equipment necessary for the project.
Assembles materials, tools, and equipment required to complete the project according to plans.
Independence of Operation
Trades Generalists are supervised by higher-level trades positions, such as Trades Supervisor (Carpenter), Maintenance Supervisor 1, 2 or 3, or a program administrator with varied responsibilities, in addition to facilities and equipment maintenance and repair. Generally, work priorities are prescribed, material is furnished, the nature and extent of the work to be performed is given, and detailed plans, diagrams, and specifications are provided. However, a Trades Generalist may be required to work from rough sketches or from oral instructions.
Although the work of a Trades Generalist is inspected periodically by the supervisor, incumbents are expected to work with considerable independence as is typical of a skilled tradesperson.
Communication
The nature of a Trades Generalists activities generally restricts relationships to employees working within the same organization unit, including skilled tradespersons in other trades. However, incumbents may be expected to orally communicate with administrators and others in an agency or facility on the reasons why work is being accomplished in the manner selected.
Trades Generalists may supervise a maintenance staff. Such relationships are characterized by frequent oral communications in assigning work and providing instructions. Written and oral communications with the general public are not typical of this class. Although incumbents may have frequent verbal relationships with others, the tasks of this class are predominantly thing-oriented and involvement with others is not a factor in determining its classification.
Supervision Exercised
A Trades Generalist may supervise a subordinate maintenance staff and/or individuals for whom the State has custody or responsibility by making assignments, giving instructions, and observing and inspecting work performed to ensure that instructions have been followed and that the quality of the work is satisfactory.
Rewards & Benefits
Competitive compensation plus comprehensive benefits plan including health, dental, and vision insurance and retirement plan options including a fixed pension plan or a 401(A) with generous employer contributions;
Paid leave provisions including sick and holiday leave; impressive educational benefits including tuition-free study plus supplemental tuition aid;
A rich array of services, programs and benefits to help employees advance in their career and enhance the quality of their personal life, including professional development programs and services, employee EAP and wellness programs, discounted membership to the on-campus fitness center, and access to the Campus and Community Child Care Center.
Job Requirements:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
As per the Department of Civil Service:
Non-competitive :
Four years of full-time experience in a trade under a skilled tradesperson
OR a completed apprenticeship;
OR completion of an equivalent program at a technical trades school, institute, or of the Armed Services;
OR an equivalent combination of experience and training gained by completion of technical courses in skilled trades at a school, institute, or branch of the Armed Services.
When required to operate motor vehicles, candidates must possess a valid state driver's license appropriate for the type of vehicle to be operated.
Additional Information:
This position is full-time, Salary Grade 12, CSEA represented position, with an entry level salary of $50,425.
Trades Specialists are considered Essential Service as per the Essential Service Policy. Fredonia employees designated essential must remain on duty or report to work at or before their scheduled starting time to avoid interruption of essential services unless directed or permitted to do otherwise, by their immediate supervisor.
Must be available for overtime hours when it is necessary to meet the operating needs of the department. Since activities of other employees depend upon the performance of the employee in this position, reliable attendance and record of dependability are required. Ability to work as a team and to communicate well with other employees is required.
Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Fredonia prides itself on an outstanding workforce. To continually support organizational excellence, the university conducts background screens on applicants.
An Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer, Fredonia provides for, and promotes, equal opportunity employment, compensation, and other terms and conditions of employment, without discrimination.
Pursuant to University policy, the University is committed to fostering a diverse community of outstanding faculty, staff, and students, as well as ensuring equal educational opportunity, employment, and access to services, programs, and activities, without regard to an individual's race, color, national origin, religion, creed, age, disability, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, familial status, pregnancy, predisposing genetic characteristics, military status, or domestic violence victim status. Employees, students, applicants or other members of the University community (including but not limited to vendors, visitors, and guests) may not be subjected to harassment that is prohibited by law, or treated adversely or retaliated against based upon a protected characteristic.
The University's policy is in accordance with federal and state laws and regulations prohibiting unlawful discrimination and harassment. These laws include the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as Amended by the Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1972, and the New York State Human Rights Law. These laws prohibit discrimination and harassment, including sexual harassment and sexual violence.
Pursuant to Executive Order 161, no State entity, as defined by the Executive Order, is permitted to ask, or mandate, in any form, that an applicant for employment provide his or her current compensation, or any prior compensation history, until such time as the applicant is extended a conditional offer of employment with compensation. If such information has been requested from you before such time, please contact the Governor's Office of Employee Relations at (518) 474-6988 or via email at info@goer.ny.gov .
Salary : $50,425