Central Plant Engineer: Boilers & Energy Systems

The California State University; California; Hybrid; USD 76,000 - 87,000; Full time

Job summary

San José State University seeks an Operating Engineer to operate, maintain, and repair boilers, chillers, cogeneration, and related central plant systems across the campus. You will monitor building automation and energy-management systems, perform preventive maintenance, and respond to emergencies to keep utilities reliable.

Ideal candidates will have hands-on mechanical/electrical skills, experience with BAS, and the ability to coordinate with other trades while upholding safety standards.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; may substitute with related certificates.
• Certificate in mechanical technology or equivalent experience in operation of boilers/chillers.
• On-the-job training in power plant equipment and cogeneration is acceptable.

Responsibilities

• Operate, monitor, maintain, and repair boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, and related central plant equipment.
• Operate cogeneration, electrical generation and distribution, fuel, water, and air systems.
• Use BAS to adjust temperatures, schedules, and plant output for energy efficiency.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance; troubleshoot and test repairs.
• Conduct chemical analyses and water-treatment activities; monitor emissions and pressures.
• Respond to emergencies; initiate safety protocols and switch systems to manual when needed.
• Calibrate and monitor boiler, turbine, and control systems; maintain logs and records.
• Coordinate with trades; provide direction and training to staff; ensure safety codes compliance.

Skills

Operating boilers/chillers

Building automation systems

Preventive maintenance

Problem solving

Team leadership

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Certificate in mechanical technology

On-the-job training in cogeneration/power plant ops

Tools

Building Automation Systems (BAS)

Energy management software

Central plant equipment tools

Job description

San José State University seeks an Operating Engineer to operate, maintain, and repair boilers, chillers, cogeneration, and related central plant systems across the campus. You will monitor building automation and energy-management systems, perform preventive maintenance, and respond to emergencies to keep utilities reliable.

Ideal candidates will have hands-on mechanical/electrical skills, experience with BAS, and the ability to coordinate with other trades while upholding safety standards.