Energy Utilities Specialist - Contributing

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill (NC); On-site; USD 35,000 - 57,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sign-on bonus

Job summary

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill seeks an entry-level Energy Utilities Specialist to support Cogeneration Systems Operations, ensuring reliable steam and electricity production for campus facilities.

Be prepared to work a 24/7, 12-hour shift schedule, including nights, weekends and holidays; a sign-on bonus of $5,139 is available to successful applicants.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED with 2 years related experience.
• Certification(s) required.

Responsibilities

• Assist ACRO/CRO and Shift Supervisor in safe operation of cogeneration plants.
• Support 24/7 12-hour shift schedule including nights, weekends and holidays.

Education

High school diploma or equivalency

Job description

Posting Information
Posting Information
Department ES CG-227110
Career Area Facilities and Skilled Trades
Is this an internal only recruitment? No
Posting Open Date 10/12/2026
Application Deadline 10/21/2026
Position Type Permanent Staff (SHRA)
Position Title Energy Utilities Specialist - Contributing
Salary Grade Equivalent NC12 / GN07
Working Title Auxiliary Operator
Position Number 00022273
Vacancy ID P021448
Full-time/Part-time Permanent/Time-Limited Full-Time Permanent
Hours per week 40
Work Schedule This position is requested to work a 24/7-365 days/year rotational 12 hour shift schedule. This includes nights, weekends and holidays. It is expected to cover absences both planned and unplanned when necessary.
This position is Adverse Weather, Emergency Event and Communicable Disease On-site Mandatory. Therefore must work during periods of inclement weather, university emergency and/or public health emergency and may have to work a differing schedule or shift than normally assigned.
Work Location CHAPEL HILL, NC
Position Location North Carolina, US
Hiring Range $35100 - $56538
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 primary purpose of Cogeneration Systems is the generation of steam to the various buildings on the University campus and to the UNC Hospitals. Steam is critical to the operations of the University and UNC Hospitals. It is used for heating, cooling, domestic hot water, sterilization of surgical instrument, distilled water production, food preparation and dish washing. Cogeneration Systems also generates electricity as a byproduct of the steam generation. It can presently supply about 30 percent of the peak campus electrical load. Cogeneration Systems is part of UNC Energy Services.
Position Summary A SIGN -ON BONUS OF $5,139 IS AVAILABLE FOR THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT OF THIS POSITION PAID IN 2 INSTALLMENTS WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF HIRE : $2,569.50 WITHIN 30 DAYS OF HIRE DATE AND $2,569.50 12 MONTHS AFTER HIRE DATE . Primary purpose of this position is to provide entry-level support to the Cogeneration Systems Operations workgroup. The position will assist the Assistant Control Room Operator ( ACRO ), Control Room Operator ( CRO ) and the Shift Supervisor (SS) in the safe and reliable operation of all plant systems and equipment related to the production of steam and electric generating facilities (Cogeneration Systems and Manning-Drive Steam Plant).
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 Directly related coal fired steam plant operations experience preferably at a Cogeneration Facility or other power plant/utilities experience is preferred
Required Licenses/Certifications Special Physical/Mental Requirements PHYSICAL EFFORTS
Position requires climbing ladder/stairs, ability to move 50+ pounds, ability to wear self-contained breathing apparatus
Working with hands above head for extended periods of time
Working on knees for extended periods of time
Work Environment And Conditions The environmental conditions vary tremendously from air conditioning and heat to dusty, hot and humid and cold conditions. This position will be required to work in all conditions for various lengths of time depending on the operational requirements. This position will be required to enter confined spaces or hazardous environments with the appropriate PPE in accordance with established procedures
Campus Security Authority Responsibilities Not Applicable.
Position/Schedule Requirements Evening work, Exposure to Hazardous Materials, Night work, Overtime, Respirator, general use, Shift work, Valid NC Driver’s License, Weekend work, Weekend work occasionally
Special Instructions

• ELIGIBILITY FOR SIGN -ON BONUS

Requirements The selected candidate for this position may be eligible for a sign-on bonus. Qualified applicants must apply and be selected from the candidate pool of this posting and meet the State policy following requirements:
To be eligible for a Sign-on bonus, an individual must not have worked in a probationary, permanent, or time-limited appointment in the last 12 months as an employee in North Carolina state government, including without limitation the judicial system, state executive branch agencies, and the university system in a position subject to the State Human Resources Act.
A newly hired permanent full time or permanent part-time (more than 20 hours a week) employee are eligible for a sign-on bonus (this will be prorated for employees working more than 20 hours and less than 40 hours per week).
This SHRA Sign-on Bonus is contingent upon budget and final eligibility determination as of the effective date of hire. All recipients must sign the Pay Back Agreement form. Additional information regarding the SHRA Sign-on Policy can be found https://oshr.nc.gov/policies/sign-and-retention-bonus-policy
Quick Link https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/326744
Contact Information
Office of Human Resources Contact Information If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at [phone] or send an email to [e-mail]
Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.