Central Utility Plant Operator: Boilers & Chillers

University of Chicago; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 96,432,000 - 106,075,200; Full time

Job summary

The University of Chicago is seeking a skilled operator to run and maintain steam and chiller plants, ensuring efficient boiler firing and safe distribution of steam and condensate. You will monitor gauges, adjust controls, and perform routine repairs while upholding university standards.

Responsibilities include plant equipment maintenance, logbook records, and collaboration with the Utility Plant Operator.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED) from an accredited institution, required.
• Two years chiller plant operation experience or ability to acquire these skills through extensive training and testing, preferred.
• 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.
• Demonstrated ability to access computer programs and use or learn basic computer operations.
• 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.

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.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

English communication

Math skills

Problem solving

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

The University of Chicago is seeking a skilled operator to run and maintain steam and chiller plants, ensuring efficient boiler firing and safe distribution of steam and condensate. You will monitor gauges, adjust controls, and perform routine repairs while upholding university standards.

Responsibilities include plant equipment maintenance, logbook records, and collaboration with the Utility Plant Operator.