Lead Plant Operator: Campus Utilities & HVAC Lead

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.; Omaha (NE); On-site; USD 60,700 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Nebraska at Omaha is seeking a Lead Plant Operator to supervise and mentor Plant Operators, operate the Central Utility Plant, and ensure safe, efficient building systems across campus.

Responsibilities include interpreting diagrams, performing preventive maintenance, coordinating orders, completing paperwork, and leading on-call coverage; the role requires a strong background in large commercial HVAC, boilers, chillers, and energy management systems.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Five years’ experience with large commercial HVAC equipment and building mechanical systems.
• Three years’ experience in hands-on boiler and chiller operation.
• One year of experience with computerized energy management systems.
• City of Omaha Third Grade Stationary Engineers License – must be obtained within 6 months of hire.
• Valid Driver’s License.

Responsibilities

• Operate, monitor, and maintain equipment located within the CUP and other campus buildings.
• Interpret and use schematics, one-line diagrams, and construction drawings to troubleshoot and repair systems and equipment.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable building, boiler, electrical, and fire codes and university standards.
• Coordinate equipment and supply purchases for the CUP.
• Prepare performance evaluations, conduct training, and assign work orders to staff.
• Assign, review, and close out completed preventive maintenance and service work order requests.
• Approve weekly timecards and review/file inspection reports, log sheets, leave requests, and other required paperwork.
• Maintain, perform preventative maintenance, and complete repairs on all equipment within the CUP.

Skills

HVAC systems expertise

Maintenance supervision

Troubleshooting

Safety compliance

Facility operations

Education

High school diploma

City of Omaha Third Grade Stationary Engineers License

Associate’s degree in Stationary Engineering

Job description

The University of Nebraska at Omaha is seeking a Lead Plant Operator to supervise and mentor Plant Operators, operate the Central Utility Plant, and ensure safe, efficient building systems across campus.

Responsibilities include interpreting diagrams, performing preventive maintenance, coordinating orders, completing paperwork, and leading on-call coverage; the role requires a strong background in large commercial HVAC, boilers, chillers, and energy management systems.