CENTRAL PLANT OPERATOR (4)

University of Alabama at Birmingham; Birmingham (AL); On-site; USD 2,728,000 - 3,477,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Care Plan

Dental Plan

Vision Plan

Pension Plan (RSA)

403(b) and 457(b) Retirement

Job summary

University of Alabama at Birmingham is seeking a Central Plant Operator to manage operation, maintenance, and monitoring of chilled water systems across UAB’s Central Plants and related facilities.

The role requires hands-on experience with HVAC systems, strong measurement and diagnostics skills, and the ability to respond to operational needs 24/7 to ensure reliable cooling for campus and hospital buildings.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of HVAC experience.
• Graduation from an accredited vocational school in HVAC is strongly encouraged.

Responsibilities

• Operate chillers, pumps, cooling towers, and related systems using monitoring and energy management systems.
• Ensure continuous chilled water delivery to campus and hospital buildings.
• Inspect equipment and record operating data (temperature, pressure, flow, chemical levels, refrigerants, oil).
• Inspect, test, calibrate, and maintain control systems (sensors, relays, panels, transmitters).
• Assist with preventive and corrective maintenance on chillers, pumps, motors, and support systems.

Skills

HVAC experience

Education

Vocational HVAC training (encouraged)

Job description

Central Plant Operator

The posting is intended to describe the general content and requirements of this position and is not intended to be an exhaustive statement of duties.

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. The operator performs inspections, diagnostics, repairs, and collaborates with contractors and inspectors to maintain optimal system performance and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate reciprocating and centrifugal chillers, pumps, cooling towers, and related systems using computerized monitoring and energy management systems.
• Ensure continuous chilled water delivery to UAB Campus and Hospital buildings.
• Inspect equipment and record operating data including temperatures, pressures, flow rates, chemical levels, refrigerants, and oil levels.
• Identify and respond to unusual conditions such as vibrations, heat, noise, and odors.
• Inspect, test, calibrate, and maintain control systems including sensors, relays, control panels, and transmitters.
• Diagnose and resolve issues using electronic and computer-based tools.
• Assist with preventive and corrective maintenance, modifications, replacements, and installations on chillers, pumps, motors, and support systems.
• Support maintaining water treatment systems and adjusting chemical feed rates based on test results.
• Provide 24/7/365 alarm monitoring and operational support for all UAB Campus and Hospital buildings.
• Notify management of potential issues affecting chilled water distribution and plant operations.
• Assist Alabama state inspectors during annual pressure vessel surveys and certifications.
• Support contractors on special projects within the chilled water plant and across campus.
• Maintain accurate records of inspections, maintenance activities, and system performance.
• Interpret blueprints, drawings, and manufacturer specifications related to HVAC and mechanical systems.
• Maintain a clean and orderly work environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support plant operations.

Qualifications

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

Certifications

• Valid Alabama driver’s license required.
• Must meet University underwriting guidelines for driving.
• EPA Section 608 Refrigerant Handling Certification preferred.

The driving record should meet University underwriting guidelines to drive vehicles in performance of university business. Current underwriting guidelines include possession a valid driver's license, issued in the United States; at least 21 years of age; at least three years of driving experience; maintain an acceptable Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities (KSAs)

Technical Proficiency

• Proficient in operating and maintaining chilled water systems, mechanical components, and control systems.
• Ability to interpret technical documents and specifications.

Safety & Compliance

• Knowledge of OSHA regulations and safe work practices.
• Ability to follow procedures for chemical handling, confined space entry, and emergency response.

Problem Solving & Critical Thinking

• Skilled in diagnosing system issues and implementing effective solutions.
• Ability to interpret performance data and make informed adjustments.

Technology & Tools

• Proficient in using monitoring instruments, control systems, and diagnostic tools.
• Familiarity with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).

Communication & Collaboration

• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with team members, contractors, and inspectors.

Organizational & Leadership Abilities

• Capable of prioritizing tasks and managing multiple responsibilities.
• Demonstrates initiative and accountability in plant operations.

Project & Time Management

• Strong time management skills to meet operational deadlines.
• Ability to support special projects and respond to urgent system needs.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry a minimum of 50 lbs.
• Climb stairs, ladders, scaffold, and work at heights above 30 feet.
• Perform tasks requiring bending, stooping, kneeling, and walking long distances.
• Work in extreme temperature and humidity ranges and confined spaces.
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) as required.

Compensation And Benefits

• Starting Pay Range: $19.80 – $25.24 (commensurate with experience and qualifications)
• OT Pay: 0–10 Hours OT/Week is expected. May exceed 10 Hours/Week under extraordinary conditions.
• Benefits Include Multiple Health Care Plan options, Dental, Vision, Pre-tax Flexible Spending Account, Health Savings Account, Participate in the RSA Pension plan, 403(b) and 457(b) Retirement savings plans, Accident Insurance, Identity Theft Protection, Pet Benefits, Life/AD&D & Disability Insurance, UAB Employee Wellness, Employee Assistance and Counseling, Vacation, Sick Leave, 9 Paid Holidays/Year, 3 Personal Holidays Year, Educational Assistance for Employees and Families.

Work Schedule

The current shift schedule follows a 5 Days On/2 Days Off + 2 Days On/5 Days Off schedule. The current daily work schedules are either 6AM-to-6PM or 6PM-to-6AM. This position may require overtime, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as operational needs dictate. Must be able to work a flexible work schedule, including on-call. Work schedules are subject to change to meet the needs of the University.

For more information about UAB Facilities, please visit: http://www.uab.edu/facilities/ .

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. As required by Title IX, 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.

Organization

112802010 Chilled Water

Employee Status

Regular

Shift

Day/1st Shift

Work Arrangement

Onsite