Central Utility Plant Assistant Operator

University of Chicago; United States; On-site; USD 48,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Union Local 73

Health benefits

Job summary

The University of Chicago seeks a qualified individual to operate, maintain, and monitor boilers, chillers, and related equipment in steam and chiller plants. Under supervision, you will follow university standards and safety procedures.

Responsibilities include firing, regulating fuel, pumps, turbines, documenting readings, and performing repairs. A state license or EPA certification is required within two years, with two years of plant operation preferred.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Two years chiller plant operation experience preferred or ability to gain skills through training.
• City of Chicago Stationary Engineer’s License or obtain within two years; EPA Refrigerant Certification within two years.

Responsibilities

• Operates and maintains boiler and chiller systems to ensure efficient firing and operation.
• Adjusts controls to set fuel feed, water level, steam pressure, and draft openings.
• Maintains equipment by tightening fittings, lubricating parts and replacing components.
• Records meter readings and maintains logs of operation and maintenance actions.
• Troubleshoots equipment, interprets diagrams, and performs repairs as needed.

Skills

Boiler operation

Chiller operation

Electrical controls

Mechanical aptitude

English communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

ASME Welding Certification

EPA Refrigerant Certification

Job description

About the Department

Facilities Services supports the mission of the University of Chicago through efforts to maintain and enhance the University campus and environment and provide superior client service to our community including faculty, students, staff, neighbors and visitors.

Job Summary

Under the direction of the Utility Plant Operator, operates, maintains and monitors boilers, chillers and all auxiliary equipment located in Steam & chiller Plants and distribution systems. Performs work in accordance with University standards and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Operates and maintains efficient firing of gas or oil fired boilers and chiller systems.


• Turns valves and adjusts controls to set specified fuel feed, draft openings, water level, and steam pressure of boiler.


• Operates and maintains turbines, pumps, motors, air compressors, fans, and all other steam plant equipment.


• Observes pressure, temperature, and draft meters on panel to verify specified operation of automatic combustion control systems, feed water regulators and burners.


• Observes boilers and all auxiliary equipment to detect malfunctions and makes repairs, such as changing burners and tightening pipes and fittings.


• Ensures that water and steam treatment are appropriately tested and treated.


• Maintains appropriate log of meter and gauge readings and records such data.


• Records operation and maintenance actions taken during shift in operator’s logbook.


• Maintains equipment by tightening fittings, repacking bearings, lubricating, replacing packing glands, gaskets, valves, steam traps, recorders, and gauges, and cleaning or replacing burners or other components.


• Dismantles defective chiller, boiler, plant and distribution equipment; installs new or repaired parts and piping.


• Requisitions materials and supplies using in-house procedures as needed.


• Keeps working area safe and clean.


• Troubleshoots all equipment associated with boilers and chillers and identifies and solves problems.


• Interprets equipment and piping documentation to troubleshoot and make repairs.


• Receives instruction and direction from Utility Plant Operator in operation of plants, and repair or maintenance of equipment.


• Responsible for operations of plants in absence of Utility Plant Operator and supervisors.


• Helps introduce new employees to shop protocol, procedures and campus applications and equipment.


• Wears and/or uses appropriate safety equipment.


• Uses computers to operate equipment; enters and access job related information.


• Undertakes training related to job duties as deemed necessary by the University.


• Performs related job duties as may be assigned.

Education, Experience and Certifications

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent (GED) from an accredited institution, required.


• Experience: Two years chiller plant operation experience or ability to acquire these skills through extensive training and testing, preferred.


• Certifications: City of Chicago Stationary Engineer’s License or must obtain within two years.


• Current valid driver's license, other licenses or certificates needed for this position as required by law.


• Universal EPA Refrigerant Certification or must obtain within two years.


• ASME Welding Certification.

Technical Knowledge or Skills

• Demonstrated ability to access computer programs and use or learn basic computer operations related to position requirements.


• Demonstrated ability to read and interpret documents including: blue prints, plans, drawings and schemata.


• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing.


• Demonstrated ability to perform mathematical functions relevant to the position.


• Demonstrated ability to solve problems.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

Must demonstrate mechanical aptitude and manual dexterity and be physically capable of strenuous activity over extended periods of time. Must be able to lift and move loads appropriate to job requirements and be able to bend and work in a kneeling position for periods of time. Must be able to climb stairs and ladders. Must be capable of working at heights as required. Must be able to enter and work within tight spaces. Must be able to withstand extreme hot and cold temperatures.

Pay Range

$ 40.97 per hour

Required Documents

• Resume


• Cover Letter


• List of References

Benefit Eligibility

Yes

Benefits

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off.

Pay Rate Type

Hourly Pay Range $34.82 - $40.97

Scheduled Weekly Hours

40

Union

042 - Local 73, S.E.I.U.

Skilled Trades

Real Estate Operations

Job is Exempt

No

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

Yes

Posting Date

2026-06-15

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Accommodation Availability

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

Background Check

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-based basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

Annual Security & Fire Safety Report

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.

University Overview

The University of Chicago is an urban research university that has driven new ways of thinking since 1890. Our commitment to free and open inquiry draws inspired scholars to our global campuses, where ideas are born that challenge and change the world. We empower individuals to challenge conventional thinking in pursuit of original ideas. Students in the College develop critical, analytic, and writing skills in our rigorous, interdisciplinary core curriculum. Through graduate programs, students test their ideas with UChicago scholars, and become the next generation of leaders in academia, industry, nonprofits, and government.

Further Information / Link

To learn more about the university click here http://www.uchicago.edu/