Auxiliary Operator II

Vicinity Energy Inc.; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 41,000 - 63,000; Full time

Job summary

Vicinity Energy is seeking an Auxiliary Operator for their Philadelphia facilities. This full-time role involves operating and maintaining auxiliary equipment while ensuring safety compliance and operational readiness. Candidates should possess a high school diploma or trade certification and relevant experience in heavy industry.

Qualifications

• At least two years of relevant experience in military, utility, or heavy industry, or one year with trade school background.
• Ability to monitor and operate auxiliary plant equipment.
• Knowledge of combustion principles, boiler firing, and chilled water systems.

Responsibilities

• Operate, monitor, and maintain auxiliary equipment at the Schuylkill and Edison plants.
• Report operational conditions and manage fuel loads and deliveries.
• Perform operational rounds and ensure safety standards.

Skills

Effective communication skills

Knowledge of combustion principles

Ability to monitor and operate auxiliary plant equipment

Education

High school diploma or trade school certification

Job description

Vicinity Energy is North America’s largest provider of district energy solutions, offering low carbon energy to iconic buildings across Boston, Cambridge, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and other US cities. Committed to reducing climate impacts and achieving net zero, we seek talented individuals to join our team in this mission.

Summary

This position is the second level in the Auxiliary Operator series, reporting to the Operations Manager. It is a full-time hourly role based in Philadelphia, PA, and requires willingness to join the IBEW Local 614 bargaining unit.

Responsibilities

• Operate, monitor, and maintain auxiliary equipment at the Schuylkill and Edison plants, including burner management.
• Report operational conditions, trends, and abnormalities to control personnel.
• Manage fuel loads and deliveries.
• Prepare equipment for maintenance, perform minor repairs, and ensure operational readiness post-maintenance.
• Handle minor maintenance tasks on valves, fans, and related equipment.
• Understand and operate fuel pumps, water treatment, and brine systems.
• Operate and regenerate resin beds for boiler water production, including resin replacement as needed.
• Maintain safety standards, identify hazards, and use safety equipment appropriately.
• Perform operational rounds and duties at Edison Station as required.
• Identify system components, understand their operation and interactions.
• Perform routine tasks such as lubrication, minor repairs, and burner operation adjustments.
• Maintain housekeeping and perform confined space and LOTO procedures.
• Guide and oversee other auxiliary operators.
• Report to Shift Supervisor and Control Operator.
• Perform tasks impacting plant reliability and operations, including mandatory overtime and shift work.

Basic Qualifications

• High school diploma or trade school certification.
• At least two years of relevant experience in military, utility, or heavy industry, or one year with trade school background.
• Ability to monitor and operate auxiliary plant equipment.
• Effective communication skills.
• Knowledge of combustion principles, boiler firing, steam turbines, water treatment, and chilled water systems.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience operating boilers, burners, valves, pumps, fans, water treatment, chillers, and related auxiliary equipment.

Other Qualifications

• Capability to perform minor maintenance and safety tasks, including blocking, unblocking, and testing equipment.

Physical Requirements

• Pre-employment physical and drug screening; respirator qualification required.
• Valid driver’s license with a good driving record.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds unaided.
• Ability to climb, work at heights, and in confined spaces.
• Tolerance to temperature extremes.
• Capability to wear PPE, interpret gauges, and respond to alarms.

Vicinity North America is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.