Energy Utilities Specialist - Advanced

The 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 seeks a Chilled Water Systems Operator to manage the district cooling system, including chilled water plants and distribution across main and satellite facilities.

Responsibilities include operating and monitoring SCADA-controlled systems, troubleshooting issues, and coordinating with Energy Services to ensure uninterrupted campus cooling. This on-site role supports critical facilities and requires adherence to safety protocols.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent and two years of related experience; or equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Requires certification(s).
• Associate’s Degree in district energy technology and process control or related fields.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor the District Cooling System (DCS) for UNC, including chilled water plants and distribution.
• Identify malfunctions, troubleshoot, and perform control adjustments to optimize performance.
• Coordinate with Chilled Water personnel and Energy Services to maintain reliable service on campus.

Skills

SCADA Systems

Chilled Water Systems

District Energy Controls

Certifications

Education

High School Diploma or Equivalent

Associate’s Degree in district energy technology and process control or related fields

Job description

Posting InformationPosting Information
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.
Position Summary Information
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 The position operates in a wide range of environmental conditions, including air‑conditioned and heated spaces, as well as dusty, hot, humid, cold, and high‑noise environments. Work may be performed under these conditions for varying periods of time based on operational requirements. The position may require entry into confined spaces and hazardous environments while using appropriate personal protective equipment and following established safety procedures.
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; and kneeling for extended periods.
High degree of mental concentration, attention to detail, technical judgment, and accuracy is required to safely and reliably operate plant systems and equipment. Responsibilities include monitoring and operating systems through the District Cooling System and locally, conducting equipment rounds and inspections, identifying abnormal operating conditions, and accurately placing systems and equipment in and out of service. The position must understand the interrelationships and operating characteristics of complex plant systems and equipment to maintain safe, reliable, and uninterrupted service to the University campus and UNC Hospitals.
Emergency Duty, Adverse Weather, Communicable Disease, and On-Call Requirements This position is designated as an Emergency Duty/Adverse Weather position and a Communicable Disease Mandatory On‑site Primary Employee ( CDME ). The position is required to