Corrections Utility Plant Operator - SCI Somerset

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; Pennsylvania; On-site; USD 44,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is seeking a Corrections Utility Plant Operator to ensure the reliable operation of boilers, pumps, generators, and environmental controls at the SCI Somerset facility. The role includes supervising inmate workers, monitoring equipment, and maintaining logs and reports for safe daily operations.

Qualified applicants will have at least three years of experience in steam or hot water plant operations, or an equivalent training combination, plus completion of basic

Qualifications

• Three years of experience in operating, maintaining or repairing a steam or hot water generating plant.
• Equivalent combination of experience and training acceptable.
• Must complete basic training in Elizabethtown, PA.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain boilers, pumps, generators, and environmental controls.
• Read gauges, monitor equipment, and record daily data.
• Perform boiler water testing and manage chemical inventories.
• Direct inmate workers and oversee attendance and wages.
• Manage housekeeping, hazardous materials, fueling, and temperature checks.
• Report concerns, complete paperwork, and maintain inventory.

Job description

Do you want to take on a hands‑on role that keeps critical utility systems operating smoothly as a Corrections Utility Plant Operator with the Department of Corrections? In this position, you will work with boilers, pumps, generators, and environmental controls that serve the State Correctional Institution (SCI) at Somerset facility. Your work will support safety, efficiency, and reliable daily operations. Step into a role where your dedication makes a clear difference.

• Utility Operation: Operate and maintain boilers, pumps, generators, and environmental controls under normal and emergency conditions
• System Monitoring: Read gauges and meters, track equipment conditions, and record daily operational data to ensure efficient performance
• Water Testing: Conduct boiler water and softening system tests and maintain logs and chemical inventories
• Work Crew Oversight: Direct inmate workers, maintain attendance and wage records, and ensure safe and secure work areas
• Facility Support: Perform general housekeeping, manage hazardous materials, fuel vehicles, and check freezer and cooler temperatures
• Communication Duties: Report concerns to supervisors, complete required paperwork, and maintain accurate inventory and documentation

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time employment, 40-hour work week

• The Department of Corrections is staffed by three work shifts that cover the facility 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. These shifts include 1st shift (6:00 AM to 2:00 PM), 2nd shift (2:00 PM to 10:00 PM), and 3rd shift (10:00 PM to 6:00 AM). You r work schedule is to be determined.

• This position is eligible for full retirement benefits at age 50 or 55.
• Telework:You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• Salary:Selected candidates who are new to employment with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will begin employment at the starting annual salary of $49,010.00 (before taxes).
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• Three years of experience in the operation, maintenance, and repair of a steam or hot water generating plant, or a steam and electric generating plant; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training.

Additional Requirements:

• Successful completion of basic training in Elizabethtown, PA is required.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Legal Requirements:

• You must pass a background investigation and meet Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance requirements.

Veterans:

• Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. §7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

• 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.