CENTRAL PLANT OPERATOR

University of Alabama at Birmingham; University (FL); On-site; USD 27,276 - 35,817; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

Retirement options

Wellness programs

Job summary

The University of Alabama at Birmingham is looking for a Central Plant Operator responsible for the operation and maintenance of chilled water systems. This position plays a vital role in ensuring reliable service across UAB's Central Plants and facilities.

Responsibilities include monitoring cooling systems, performing maintenance, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Candidates should possess a high school diploma or GED and at least 3 years of HVAC experience. The role requires physical capacity for lifting and working at heights.

Qualifications

• Must have a high school diploma or GED.
• A minimum of 3 years HVAC experience is required.
• Graduation from an accredited vocational school in HVAC is strongly encouraged.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor chillers and cooling systems.
• Ensure efficient chilled-water delivery to campus buildings.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance.
• Inspect equipment and record operating data.

Skills

Chilled water systems operation

Mechanical component maintenance

Control systems management

Chemical handling

Emergency response procedures

Technical document interpretation

Team collaboration

Education

High school diploma or GED

HVAC vocational school training

Tools

Computerized monitoring systems

Diagnostic tools

Job description

Central Plant Operator (T236882)

Overview

Position Summary: The Central Plant Operator is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and monitoring of chilled water systems and associated equipment across UAB’s Central Plants and outlying facilities. This role supports mission‑critical infrastructure by ensuring reliable delivery of chilled water to campus and hospital buildings.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor reciprocating and centrifugal chillers, pumps, cooling towers, and related systems using computerized monitoring and energy‑management platforms.
• Ensure continuous and efficient chilled‑water delivery to all UAB campus and hospital buildings, providing 24/7/365 alarm monitoring and timely response to abnormal operating conditions.
• Inspect equipment and record operating data including temperatures, pressures, flow rates, chemical levels, refrigerants, and oil levels.
• Inspect, test, calibrate, and maintain control systems such as sensors, relays, control panels, and transmitters, diagnosing and resolving issues with electronic and computer‑based diagnostic tools.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance, modifications, replacements, and installations on chillers, pumps, motors, and supporting mechanical systems.
• Support water‑treatment operations by monitoring test results, adjusting chemical feed rates, and ensuring proper system conditions.
• Coordinate inspections and project activities, assisting Alabama state inspectors during annual pressure‑vessel surveys and supporting contractors on special projects.
• Maintain and review accurate records and technical documentation, interpret blueprints, drawings, and manufacturer specifications for HVAC and mechanical systems.
• Notify management of potential issues affecting chilled‑water distribution and plant operations.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support plant operations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Proficient in operating and maintaining chilled water systems, mechanical components, and control systems.
• Ability to interpret technical documents, schematics, and specifications.
• Knowledge of OSHA regulations and safe work practices.
• Experience with chemical handling, confined space entry, and emergency response procedures.
• Skilled in diagnosing system issues and implementing effective, timely solutions.
• Ability to interpret performance data and make informed operational adjustments.
• Proficient in using monitoring instruments, control systems, and diagnostic tools.
• Familiarity with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with team members, contractors, and inspectors.
• Capability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities.
• Demonstrates initiative and accountability in plant operations.
• Strong time‑management skills to meet operational deadlines.
• Ability to support special projects and respond effectively to urgent system needs.

Hourly Pay Range

• $19.80 - $26.00 (commensurate with experience & qualifications)
• Candidate without 6G certification must obtain it within the first 6 months of employment.
• OT Pay: 0–10 hours OT/Week expected; may exceed 10 hours/Week in extraordinary conditions.

Work Schedule

• Shift Hours: Day and night shifts are either 6:00 AM–6:00 PM or 6:00 PM–6:00 AM.
• Position may require overtime, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, based on operational needs.
• Work schedules are subject to change to meet the needs of the department and University.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of 3 years of HVAC experience required.
• Graduation from an accredited vocational school in HVAC strongly encouraged.

Licenses/Certifications/Registrations

• Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) must meet University underwriting guidelines, including a valid U.S. driver’s license, minimum age of 21, and at least three years of driving experience.

Physical Requirements

• Lift and carry at least 50 lbs.
• Climb stairs, ladders, and scaffolding; work at heights above 30 feet.
• Bend, stoop, kneel, and walk significant distances between and within buildings on campus.
• Work in confined spaces and extreme temperature environments with varying humidity ranges and a variety of materials.

Primary Location

University

Job Category

Facilities

Organization

112802010 Chilled Water

Employee Status

Regular

Shift

Day/1st Shift

Work Arrangement

Onsite (final schedule to be determined by the department/hiring manager)

Benefits

UAB provides a comprehensive benefits package, including health coverage, competitive retirement options, wellness programs, and a wide range of employee perks designed to support you both at work and at home. For a full benefits overview, visit https://www.uab.edu/humanresources/home/benefits

Equal Opportunity Employment

UAB is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, age, disability, and veteran's status. UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.