Energy Centre Technical Assistant - Estates - 53064 - Grade 5

University of Birmingham; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 29,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Birmingham seeks an Energy Centre Technical Assistant to support the operation of their Energy Centre. The role includes plant monitoring, maintenance, and ensuring safety compliance. Ideal candidates will have relevant qualifications and experience in engineering systems. Benefits include generous holiday, pension scheme, and opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

40 days holiday

Paid volunteering day

Sick pay

Pension scheme

Subsidised nurseries

Qualifications

• Experience in diagnosing and repairing mechanical, electrical, electronic, or plumbing systems.
• Ability to operate large engineering plant, including steam boilers and energy systems.

Responsibilities

• Assist with plant repairs, ensuring quality and safety standards.
• Monitor operational parameters continuously.
• Record performance data and support maintenance scheduling.

Skills

Maintenance

Troubleshooting

Interpersonal Skills

Customer Service

Self-motivation

Education

A Level or equivalent

Recognized apprenticeship

GCSE Grade C/4 in Mathematics

GCSE Grade C/4 in English

Tools

Plant operation systems

Job description

Join to apply for the Energy Centre Technical Assistant - Estates - 53064 - Grade 5 role at University of Birmingham

Job Description

Position Details

• Department: Estates
• Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
• Salary: £29,647 to £31,460, with potential progression to £35,388; plus contractual overtime and allowances (~£20k per annum)
• Grade: 5
• Type: Full Time, Permanent
• Closing Date: 28th May 2025

Our Offer to You

We value our staff as the core of our success. The University of Birmingham offers development opportunities through our Birmingham Professional programme, promotes diversity and inclusion, and supports work/life balance with flexible arrangements. Benefits include 40 days holiday, paid volunteering day, sick pay, pension scheme, and subsidised nurseries.

Background

The University is part of the Russell Group, with a strong focus on research and teaching excellence. The Energy Centre supplies heat and power via a complex system including CHP units, steam boilers, and a district heating network.

Role Summary

The Technician Assistant supports the safe and efficient operation of the Energy Centre, often working alone during shifts, with responsibilities including plant monitoring, maintenance, and safety compliance.

Main Duties

1. Assist with plant repairs, ensuring quality and safety standards.
2. Issue permits to work for qualified personnel.
3. Monitor operational parameters continuously.
4. Adjust plant operations for safety and efficiency.
5. Make Run/No Run decisions based on operational data.
6. Override automated systems when necessary to protect equipment.
7. Record performance data and support maintenance scheduling.
8. Implement pressure system inspections and liaise with inspectors.
9. Maintain logs and records of plant performance.
10. Support other functions and maintain safety inductions for visitors and contractors.
11. Manage spares inventory and order parts as needed.
12. Ensure continuous service and staffing levels.
13. Operate and adjust computerized control systems.
14. Prepare KPI reports and monitor plant effectiveness.
15. Support equality and diversity initiatives.
16. Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Knowledge, Skills, and Qualifications

• Educated to A Level or equivalent, with relevant work experience.
• Recognized apprenticeship or equivalent qualification.
• GCSE Grade C/4 in Mathematics and English or equivalent.
• Experience in diagnosing and repairing mechanical, electrical, electronic, or plumbing systems.
• Ability to operate large engineering plant, including steam boilers and energy systems.
• Strong maintenance and troubleshooting skills.
• Knowledge of health and safety legislation relevant to Energy Centres.
• Good IT skills, including plant operation systems.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Self-motivated, organized, and able to make decisions.
• Understanding of equality, diversity, and inclusion principles.

Additional Information

This role involves personal initiative, possibly managing a team or budgets. You will plan daily to long-term tasks, resolve complex issues, and liaise with internal and external stakeholders.

For informal enquiries, contact Richard Berridge at [e-mail] or 0121 414 6429.

Our Values

We celebrate diversity, promote inclusion, and are committed to sustainability and creating a fair workplace. Learn more about our values on our website.