Boiler Operator Trainee

Michigan State University; East Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 30,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

MSU comprehensive health care for you/

10% retirement contribution

Generous sick, vacation and holidays

Job summary

Michigan State University is seeking a Boiler Operator trainee to assist in operating, monitoring, and servicing auxiliary equipment for gas boilers and turbines. The role includes hands-on training, data recording, and participating in maintenance activities on site in East Lansing, MI.

Expect in-person work with scheduled hours, initiation of union representation transition, and mandatory drug testing. Competitive hourly wages start with step progression and include MSU benefits such as health

Qualifications

• Completion of a high school education.
• Must be able to pass a Mechanical Aptitude/Hands-On Assessment.
• Frequent lifting of 50 pounds and occasional lifting over 75 pounds.

Responsibilities

• 40%: Checks demineralizers, condensate polishers, compressors, closed heaters, vacuum jets, pumps, fans, and similar equipment; assists in regenerating demineralizers and polishers.
• 30%: Receives practical training in power plant operations; participates in training programs required to advance to Boiler Operator.
• 20%: Records data; assists in boiler start‑up/shut‑down; lubricates equipment; cleans and maintains work area; assists in maintenance/overhaul tasks.
• 10%: Emails, meetings, and professional development communications.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

PC basics

Education

High school diploma

Tools

None

Job description

Position Summary

Salary: $21.82 - $27.16 upon step increase progression. MSU Benefits - Free comprehensive health care for you and your family as well as a 10% contribution toward your retirement; Generous sick, vacation, personal and holiday time; Not Eligible to work a partial remote schedule. Regular in-person attendance is required to meet business and customer needs.

This position will receive practical training and assist in operating, monitoring and servicing the auxiliary equipment for gas boilers, steam turbines and combined cycle gas turbines, and auxiliary equipment such as fans, compressors, pumps, heaters, cooling towers, and water treatment equipment and develops a basic understanding of power plant operations.

In addition to an initial drug test at hire, the employer conducts random monthly drug testing throughout the year.

Please be advised that the union representation of this position is in transition, and future representation is unknown at this point.

Job Responsibilities Are As Follows

• 40%: Checks demineralizers, condensate polishers, compressors, closed heaters, vacuum jets, pumps, fans, and similar equipment; Assists in regenerating demineralizers and polishers.
• 30%: Receives practical training in and learn the basics of power plant and related systems, subsystems, equipment and facilities maintenance and operations; Participates in and successfully pass training programs required to advance to Boiler Operator.
• 20%: Records data; Assists in boiler start-up and shut-down; Assists in lubricating equipment; Performs assigned cleaning tasks and leaves the work area in neat and orderly condition; Assists in maintenance and overhaul work, and performs other related duties as required.
• 10%: Correspondence through email, training, meetings and professional development.

This position will engage in high performing, leading edge practices, valuing people, partners and stewardship.

Minimum Requirements

• Completion of a high school education;
• Must be able to pass a Mechanical Aptitude/Hands-On Assessment with emphasis in heavy equipment, factory maintenance and/or mechanic environment;
• Frequent lifting of 50 pounds and occasional lifting of over 75 pounds is required;
• Possession of a valid vehicle operator's license where needed to perform duties of the position; must be able to drive a university vehicle to perform job duties of this classification.

Desired Qualifications

• Knowledge of basic personal computer terminology and operations, and the ability to use email and the Internet.
• A creative innovator dedicated to continuous learning, with a proven ability to communicate effectively across stakeholder groups. Brings strong technical expertise and thrives in team-oriented environments. A collaborative problem solver who identifies challenges and implements solutions that support and advance University priorities.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Work Hours

Tuesday - Friday 6:00am-5:00pm and may require after-hours, weekend and holiday work.

Website

HTTPS://IPF.MSU.EDU

Summary of Physical Demands

Duties associated with this position involve wearing a respirator (does not include paper dust mask worn for comfort), lifting and carrying up to 75 pounds, pushing/pulling, and climbing ladder, stairs, and working from various types of equipment, including scaffolding, confined spaces above and below ground.

Summary of Health Risks

Possible exposure to asbestos and silica.

Bidding Eligibility ends November 3, 2026 at 11:55 PM