Central Plant Operations Manager

University of Utah; Salt Lake City (UT); On-site; USD 85,000 - 102,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Utah is seeking a Utility Plant Management leader to oversee daily operations within a central plant area. You will coach staff, monitor performance, ensure safety protocols, and report to upper management on operational metrics.

The role requires a bachelor's degree with 6 years or a master's with 4 years of directly related experience, plus a valid driver's license. Work schedules include standard hours with on-call emergencies as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree (or equivalency) + 6 years or Master's degree (or equivalency) + 4 years of related work experience.
• Equivalency substitutions allowed (1 year of higher education equals 1 year of related work).
• Must have a valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Supervises the assistant plant manager and staff overseeing heating and cooling systems maintenance.
• Directly supervises Plant Operations and Building Operations staff.
• Ensures safe and efficient operation of hydronic heating and cooling equipment and distribution systems.
• Tracks and analyzes plant performance; suggests improvements for reliability and efficiency.
• Prepares and manages the annual central plant budget.
• Coaches staff for professional development and flexibility.
• Handles hiring, disciplinary actions, and performance reviews.
• Collaborates with internal/external teams to meet regulatory and preventive maintenance requirements.
• Adheres to procurement regulations and manages maintenance contracts.
• Submits Capital Improvement and Deferred Maintenance funding requests.
• Works with project managers on plant improvements and new construction.
• Minimizes downtime by coordinating with other departments during service interruptions.
• Responds to plant emergencies 24/7/365 and informs department head accordingly.
• Maintains plant conditions and inventories of tools and spare parts; manages fleet vehicles.

Skills

Coaching

Communication

Budgeting

Leadership

Safety compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Master's degree or equivalent

Job description

University of Utah is seeking a Utility Plant Management leader to oversee daily operations within a central plant area. You will coach staff, monitor performance, ensure safety protocols, and report to upper management on operational metrics.

The role requires a bachelor's degree with 6 years or a master's with 4 years of directly related experience, plus a valid driver's license. Work schedules include standard hours with on-call emergencies as needed.