Chilled Water Systems Operator

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill (NC); On-site; USD 63,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is seeking an Energy Utilities Specialist - Advanced to operate and optimize its District Cooling System (DCS) on the CH Chapel Hill campus. This is a full-time, on-site role focused on safe, reliable, and energy-efficient operation of chilled water plants and SCADA systems.

A sign-on bonus is available. A high school diploma or equivalent with two years of related experience is required; an associate degree in district energy technology is

Qualifications

• Minimum education: high school diploma or equivalent; two years of related experience; certifications required.
• Certification(s) may be required as part of the role.

Responsibilities

• Operate and optimize the District Cooling System (DCS) including chilled water plants and distribution.
• Monitor plant and system performance; troubleshoot and perform root-cause analyses.
• Coordinate with Chilled Water personnel and Energy Services to maintain service continuity.
• Assist with water treatment and control system adjustments.

Skills

SCADA systems

Chilled water systems

Technical troubleshooting

Energy optimization

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Associate’s Degree in district energy technology

Tools

SCADA software

Job description

Department:

ES CW-227310

Career Area:

Facilities and Skilled Trades

Is this an internal only recruitment?:

No

Posting Open Date :

11/03/2026

Application Deadline:

11/17/2026

Position Type:

Permanent Staff (SHRA)

Position Title:

Energy Utilities Specialist - Advanced

Salary Grade Equivalent:

NC13 / GN12

Working Title:

Chilled Water Systems Operator

Position Number:

20078771

Vacancy ID:

P021530

Full-time/Part-time Permanent/Time-Limited:

Full-Time Permanent

Hours per week:

40

Work Schedule:

Primarily Monday - Friday 6:30am to 3:00pm.
This position is ADVERSE WEATHER, EMERGENCY EVENT and COMMUNICABLE DISEASE MANDATORY ON-SITE PRIMARY. (This means the employee in this position is expected to report to or remain at work during adverse weather and emergency events and, if deemed necessary, to work a differing schedule or shift than normally assigned).
Participation in On-Call rotation.

Work Location:

CHAPEL HILL, NC

Position Location:

North Carolina, US

Hiring Range:

$62579 - $85230

Pay Band Information:

To learn more about the pay band for this branch and role, please see the Career Banding rates spreadsheet.

Notice to Applicants:

This position is not eligible for H-1B sponsorship.

Be a Tar Heel!:

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit:

The purpose of Chilled Water Systems (CWS) is to produce and distribute chilled water for approximately 155 buildings located at the main campus and two (2) satellite campuses in a cost effective, efficient and reliable manner. Chilled water is produced in two ways. One is by an extensive chilled water generating system – the single, virtual chilled water plant, comprised of four (4) networked chiller plants that are operated as a single virtual system and the second is by stand-alone chillers that are building specific. Additionally, Chilled Water Systems provides electric and steam load balance for Cogeneration Systems. CWS is part of UNC Energy Services.

Position Summary:

A SIGN-ON BONUS OF $6,953 IS AVAILABLE FOR THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT OF THIS POSITION PAID IN 2 INSTALLMENTS WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF HIRE: $3,476.50 WITHIN 30 DAYS OF HIRE DATE AND $3,476.50 12 MONTHS AFTER HIRE DATE.

This position provides advanced technical operation, monitoring, and optimization of the District Cooling System (DCS) for UNC, including chilled water plants, associated distribution systems, and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems. Ensures the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of central chilled water systems to maintain adequate cooling for critical campus facilities and building loads. Monitors and evaluates plant and distribution system performance; identifies equipment, instrumentation, controls, and system malfunctions; performs troubleshooting and root-cause analysis; and makes precise operational and control adjustments to optimize system performance, energy efficiency, and reliability. Coordinates with Chilled Water personnel, Energy Services, and other University departments to maintain continuity of service and support campus energy conservation objectives. Administers and assists with water treatment programs and supports the operation and adjustment of building-level chilled water control systems, including CWS water bridge controls, recognizing that control changes may significantly affect system performance and campus operations. May provide technical leadership and serve as a lead technician or crew leader for assigned work, projects, and operational activities.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:

High school diploma or equivalency and two years of related experience; or equivalent combination of training and experience. Requires certification(s).

Management Preferences:

• Associate’s Degree in district energy technology and process control or related fields.
• Proficient knowledge in chilled water systems and/or district energy controls.
• Highly skilled in Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) Systems.

Special Physical/Mental Requirements:

Physical requirements include climbing ladders and stairs; lifting and moving materials or equipment weighing 50 pounds or more; wearing a self-contained breathing apparatus; performing work with hands above the head for extended periods