3rd Class Power Plant Engineer

UMass Amherst; Amherst (MA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

UMass Amherst is seeking a 3rd Class Power Plant Engineer to ensure the safe operation of the Central Heating Plant. Responsibilities include equipment operation and maintenance under the supervision of the Operations Manager.

The ideal candidate will hold a Third-Class Engineer's License and have knowledge of power plant equipment and safety policies. Candidates must also be able to perform basic repairs and maintain accurate logs.

Qualifications

• Possession of a Third-Class Stationary Engineer's License issued by Massachusetts.
• Ability to read, write effectively in English and do basic mathematics.
• Knowledge of chemical handling and safety policies.

Responsibilities

• Performs Central Heating Plant shift operations.
• Maintains shift operating logs and records.
• Responsible for receiving, handling, and storage of chemicals.

Skills

Knowledge of power plant mechanical and electrical equipment

Knowledge of power plant safety policies and procedures

Ability to operate valves and switches

Ability to use hand tools and electric tools

Ability to locate, trouble‑shoot, and adjust defects

Education

Possession of a Third-Class Stationary Engineer's License

High school diploma preferred

Tools

Basic hand tools

Analytical and test equipment

Job description

Title: 3rd Class Power Plant Engineer

Executive Area: Administration and Finance

College/School/MBU: Facilities Management

Department: Utility Power Plant

Work Location: Amherst

Schedule: Full Time

Work Arrangement: Onsite

Job Summary

The Third Class Power Plant Engineer holding this position will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the University of Massachusetts Amherst Central Heating Plant equipment and systems, and assists with maintenance tasks as assigned. This position reports to the Operations Manager and receives functional supervision from the Lead Operator.

Essential Functions

• Performs Central Heating Plant shift operations, under the functional supervision of the Lead Operator, including startup and shutdown of equipment assuring that electrical and steam generation is maintained in a safe and reliable manner.
• Complies with all site safety requirements and procedures.
• Maintains shift operating logs and records.
• Performs basic electrical and mechanical inspections, trouble‑shooting, minor repairs, and maintenance tasks as assigned.
• Performs routine chemical testing.
• Reads and records gauges and meters.
• Opens and closes valves and adjusts controls to regulate flows of operating fluids.
• Responsible for the safe receiving, handling, and storage of ammonia, water treatment chemicals, and fuel oil.
• Cleans, maintains, and/or lubricates power plant and related auxiliary equipment.
• Maintains cleanliness of work areas.
• Assists in developing standard procedures for operations and maintenance.
• Understands and utilizes Central Heating Plant computerized maintenance management system.
• Executes work orders.
• Utilizes safe working habits. Identifies hazards and takes corrective action.
• Understands, is committed to, and supports affirmative action and non‑discrimination goals.
• Performs all duties necessary to fulfill Central Heating Plant requirements.

Other Functions

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Possession of a Third-Class Stationary Engineer's License issued by the Massachusetts Department of Public Safety pursuant to Chapter 146 of the Massachusetts General Laws.
• Possession of a Grade 2-I full active or higher Certificate of Competency issued by the Massachusetts Board of Certifications of Operators of Wastewater Treatment Facilities pursuant to the Code of Massachusetts Regulations 257 CMR 2.00. (or have the ability to obtain in one year)
• Ability to read and write effectively in English and to do basic mathematics; high school diploma preferred.
• Knowledge of power plant mechanical and electrical equipment, including motors, pumps, turbine generators, boilers, fluid systems, chemical handling, water treatment systems, cooling towers, pollution control equipment, AC and DC electrical distribution and control systems, etc. and associated maintenance functions.
• Knowledge of power plant safety policies and procedures, especially in the areas of high‑energy systems, chemical handling, heavy equipment, rotating machinery, confined spaces, fire suppression, and first aid.
• Ability to gain thorough knowledge of chemistry and learn power plant chemical applications.
• Knowledge of and experience in at least four of the following skills: pipefitting, welding, machining, rigging, rotating machine repair, fabrication, machine alignment, basic vibration, and using electrical test equipment.
• Ability to operate valves, switches, controls, keyboards, and other devices associated with power plants.
• Ability to use basic hand tools, portable electric and pneumatic tools, and basic rigging equipment, such as winches, hoists, and slings.
• Ability to locate, trouble‑shoot, and adjust defects in mechanical equipment and/or to maintain, install, modify, and trouble‑shoot plant electrical systems and equipment (even while online) without "tripping" equipment, with supervision if necessary.
• Ability to operate and maintain various analytical and test equipment.
• Ability to comprehend and apply technical information, including mechanical and electrical drawings.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• General knowledge of computerized maintenance management systems.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with gas turbine operations.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in indoor and/or outdoor environments, and requires frequent lifting, bending, tool use or equipment use. May involve work in confined spaces or at heights.

Work Schedule and Work Arrangement

Must work rotating shifts including weekends.

Salary Information

Pay Grade: AFSCME Grade 20

Click here to view the Classified Step Scale

Special Instructions for Applicants

Along with the application, please submit a resume. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three professional references.

This position will remain open for the time period required by any applicable collective bargaining agreement and will continue until a suitable candidate pool is identified. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.