Central Plant Operator I

UWMIL University of Wisconsin Milwaukee; Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 35,817 - 41,328; Full time

Job summary

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee is seeking a Central Plant Operator I to join the facilities team. The role focuses on operating and maintaining central plant equipment, including boilers and chillers, under supervision and following plant procedures.

Responsibilities include emergency, routine, and preventative maintenance; startup/shutdown of plant equipment; monitoring control systems; water testing; and ensuring safety with proper PPE. Overtime and on-site work required.

Qualifications

• Minimum six months of maintenance experience or equivalent education/training.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds unassisted.
• Ability to work at heights up to 35 ft with fall protection or ladders.
• Willingness and ability to wear required PPE, work in confined spaces.
• Availability to work overtime, all shifts including weekends and holidays on a rotating basis.

Responsibilities

• Perform emergency, routine, and preventative maintenance under direction of central plant leadership, including repair of equipment and completion of maintenance reports.
• Assist in operation of campus and satellite central plant boilers, chillers, and auxiliary equipment, including startup/shutdown, fuel changeovers, monitoring control systems, and conducting inspection tours.
• Address urgent or unplanned operation needs, reboot systems, monitor water flow, and perform water testing and analysis per heat plant procedures.
• Perform general janitorial and maintenance duties as directed.

Skills

Maintenance experience

Education

Equivalent education/training

Job description

Position Title: Central Plant Operator I

Job Category: University Staff • Employment Type: Regular

Job Profile: Heat/Cool Plant Operator I

Key Responsibilities

• Perform emergency, routine, and preventative maintenance under direction of central plant leadership, including repair of equipment and completion of maintenance reports.
• Assist in operation of campus and satellite central plant boilers, chillers, and auxiliary equipment, including startup/shutdown, fuel changeovers, monitoring control systems, and conducting inspection tours.
• Address urgent or unplanned operation needs, reboot systems, monitor water flow, and perform water testing and analysis per heat plant procedures.
• Perform general janitorial and maintenance duties as directed.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum six months of maintenance experience or equivalent education/training.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds unassisted.
• Ability to work at heights up to 35 feet with fall protection or ladders.
• Willingness and ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), work in confined spaces.
• Availability to work overtime, all shifts including weekends and holidays on a rotating basis.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience managing boiler and/or chiller water treatment and water chemistry programs.
• Experience with courteous customer service and professional communication.
• Experience as lead worker, team leader, or supervisor over operations and maintenance staff.
• Proficiency with standard office computer programs.
• Prior work experience in a central plant, process plant, or equivalent.
• Boiler Operator License or equivalent certification.
• Valid Wisconsin Driver’s license or equivalent permit.

Compensation: $26.50 – $29.50 per hour; salary will be determined by experience, training, education, and equity-based factors.

Employees in this position are designated as essential and may be required to report during emergencies or campus closures. On-site presence is required at satellite locations; this position is not eligible for hybrid or remote work.

UWM is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.