Roofer Assistant

About the Role

The Facilities Management Department at the University of Virginia seeks a Roofer Assistant, an entry-level trades employee supporting roofing systems maintenance, repair, and installation under close supervision. This position offers a structured introduction to the roofing trade, aiming to develop the skills, safety competence, and training necessary for progression to a Roofer position. The Roofer Assistant contributes to protecting University buildings from the elements.

Key Responsibilities

• Repair and Installation Support

• Assist the roofing crew with the repair of existing roof systems, including flashing, gutters, downspouts, and related components.

• Support the installation of roofing systems by providing materials, tools, and assistance.

• Perform basic, clearly defined tasks such as holding, measuring, cutting, fastening, sealing, and cleaning under direct instruction and close supervision.

• Follow instructions from supervising crew members and seek guidance for unclarified tasks.

• Inspection and Documentation

• Accompany the roofing crew on inspections and assist with reporting observed damage, leaks, or unsafe conditions to the Roofer Supervisor.

• Take photographs and record work performed and materials used in assigned applications, including time tracking, as directed.

• Safety

• Perform all work in accordance with OSHA, federal, state, and local safety rules, procedures, and regulations.

• Use fall protection systems correctly after instruction, including donning a harness, tying off, and using required personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Use ladders, hand tools, and power tools only after instruction and authorization; operate aerial lifts only after required training and authorization.

• Complete all assigned safety training, including fall protection training.

• Training and Development

• Learn roofing trade skills, materials, tools, and best practices through observation, instruction, and hands-on practice.

• Actively participate in classroom and on-the-job training, including training for industry certification and progression to the Roofer position.

• Availability and Other Duties

• Work overtime, including nights and weekends, and respond to emergencies as needed.

• Perform snow removal operations during winter weather as assigned.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to perform routine tasks according to standard procedures.
• Communication skills sufficient for effective interaction with supervisors, crew members, and University personnel.
• Willingness to complete safety and trade training, including fall protection training.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is preferred.
• Prior exposure to roofing, construction, or building trades is preferred.
• Familiarity with hand tools and power tools is preferred.
• OSHA 10-hour general industry safety training is preferred.
• Valid driver's license is preferred.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

• The position is physically demanding, performed primarily outdoors and at elevated heights.
• Requires regular walking, standing, kneeling, crawling, squatting, and climbing.
• Requires lifting and carrying various weights and performing strenuous manual labor.
• Involves repetitive motion for grasping, pulling, pushing, and operating hand and power tools.
• Work at elevated heights, including roof access by ladder, stairs, or aerial lift, and travel through attic spaces.
• Work occurs in various indoor and outdoor conditions, including exposure to weather.
• Requires the use of personal protective equipment and fall protection systems.
• Regular work hours apply, with overtime, including nights and weekends, and emergency response required as needed.
• Local travel between University work sites is required.