Trades Apprentice

State of Louisiana
Shreveport, LA



The Trades Apprentice works alongside staff holding the following titles to support the operation of the LSUS Central Plant: Operating Engineer I, Operating Engineer II, Operating Engineer Master, and Operating Engineer Foreman. Duties outlined below must be performed safely and in full compliance with all applicable safety standards, including the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). The Trades Apprentice is expected to maintain a clean and organized work environment, adhere to all departmental procedures, and actively engage in both hands-on and observational learning to develop the skills necessary to effectively support the Central Plant operations team.No experience or training is required.

The official job specifications for this role, as defined by the State Civil Service, can be found here.

Job Duties:
  • Perform entry-level preventative maintenance tasks under supervision and in accordance with Central Plant procedures and ORM requirements. Tasks may include changing air filters, lubricating equipment, assisting with belt replacements, cleaning equipment, and maintaining tools. Support inventory organization and restocking of parts, materials, and chemicals required for plant operations.

  • Assist Operating Engineers in the operation of Central Plant equipment inclusive of chillers, cooling towers, heating water boilers, pumps, air compressors, and building automation systems (pneumatic and electronic). Observe system performance, learn normal operating conditions, and support adjustments required to maintain proper building environments. Participate in basic water treatment tasks such as sampling, logging results, and maintaining chemical levels under supervision.

  • Assist in troubleshooting HVAC and utility system issues by observing system alarms, gathering information, and supporting Operating Engineers in identifying root causes. Participate in corrective actions as directed, including coordination with supervisors and maintenance staff. Learn to interpret basic construction documents, schematics, and control diagrams related to Central Plant systems.

  • Maintain accurate records by assisting with logbook entries, computerized work order updates, and documentation of plant activities. Record equipment readings, note irregular conditions, and communicate relevant information to on-duty personnel and incoming shifts. Observe and document contractor presence and ongoing work within plant and campus systems.


Position-Specific Details:

Appointment Type: Probational or Promotional
Location: LSU Shreveport Central Plant - Shreveport, LA
Work Schedule:Monday - Friday, 7:30am to 4pm. May be required to work some overtime, weekends, or holidays.


How to Apply:

No Civil Service test score is required in order to be considered for this vacancy.

To apply for this vacancy, click on the “Apply” link above and complete an electronic application, which can be used for this vacancy as well as future job opportunities. Applicants are responsible for checking the status of their application to determine where they are in the recruitment process. Further status message information is located under the Information section of the Current Job Opportunities page.

* Information to support your eligibility for the position must be included in the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education). Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completed education and experience sections. Applications may be rejected if incomplete.


For additional information concerning this job posting contact:

Jennifer Isaac

LSUS Department of Human Resource Management

Room 108 Administration Building, LSUS

(318) 797-5279


LSUS is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and encourages applications from women and minorities. For more information about LSU Shreveport go to www.lsus.edu

LSUS is a State As a Model (SAME) employer that promotes affirmative strategies and goals for employment of individuals with disabilities.

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