Closing Date: February 28, 2026, or until filled
Location: LNVA Pumping Plants & Canal System
Department: Plant Maintenance
Status: Full-Time
Reports To: Plant Maintenance Supervisor

LNVA is seeking a skilled Pumping Plant Mechanic to support operations at our pumping plants across the canal system. This role performs mechanical maintenance, diagnostics, repair, and operational support for industrial natural gas engines, pumps, and related equipment that keep LNVA’s water delivery system functioning safely and efficiently.

LNVA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Summary of Position

The primary function of this position is to perform operational and mechanical maintenance tasks—including preventive maintenance and major/minor overhauls—on industrial natural gas engines, pumps, and other related equipment.
Secondary responsibilities include operating engines/pumps to maintain proper canal water levels and performing welding or fabrication for projects when needed.

Organizational Relationships

• Reports To: Plant Maintenance Supervisor; may receive assignments from Lead Pumper/Operator
• Directs: None (non-supervisory)
• Interacts With: Pumper/Operators, Pumper/Mechanics, Canal Riders, and other LNVA personnel

Essential Duties

• Maintain punctual and regular attendance.
• Perform major and preventive maintenance on heavy natural gas engines and pumps, including:
  • Re-facing power valves
  • Checking crankshaft bearings
  • Measuring tolerances
  • Inspecting pistons, liners, bushings, valve guides, and related components
• Assist with project design reviews and construction activities.
• Operate equipment such as backhoes, tractors, and cranes (up to 30-ton).
• Perform general plant maintenance and cleaning (e.g., trash removal, mopping, painting, lighting replacement).

Additional Responsibilities

• Operate heavy natural gas engines and adjust pumping operations to maintain canal water levels.
• Monitor engine pressures/temperatures; maintain packing; replace coolants, lubricants, and filters.
• Operate and maintain natural gas or electric air compressors and vacuum pumps.
• Clean intake grills, screens, mud traps, heat exchangers, coolers, and sump pumps.
• Monitor LNVA’s SCADA systems (Saltwater Barrier, Canal System, Remote Operated Gates, various pumping plants) and coordinate appropriate alarm responses.
• Prepare daily operational reports: pumping volumes, oil consumption, emissions, and maintenance logs.
• Perform welding/fabrication and general construction tasks (carpentry, plumbing, concrete).
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of:

• Industrial natural gas and/or diesel engines
• Pumps, compressors, piping systems, and related maintenance techniques

Skill/Ability to:

• Interpret drawings, layouts, and blueprints
• Diagnose and repair heavy industrial engines and pumping equipment
• Use precision instruments (e.g., micrometers)
• Operate computers, spreadsheets, and SCADA software
• Maintain accurate logs, reports, and documentation
• Communicate clearly and maintain effective working relationships
• Work safely in adverse weather, extreme temperatures, and noisy environments

Preferred or Desirable Skills

• Welding and fabrication (arc, gas-shielded, gas welding)
• Computer proficiency in email, word processing, and spreadsheets (Microsoft Office Suite)

Experience and Training

Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• At least three years of diesel or natural gas engine maintenance experience
• OR equivalent combination of experience and training that provides the required skills

Preferred:

• Mechanic certifications
• Welding certification
• Associate of Applied Science in Advanced Engine Technology

Certificates and Licenses

Required:

• Valid Texas Driver License

Preferred:

• Texas Commercial Driver License (CDL)

Pay Range

Pay Group: A9/A10
Range: $28.39/hour – $46.10/hour