Plant Utilities Assistant (NY HELPS)

Stony Brook University; Stony Brook (NY); On-site; USD 41,000 - 51,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Plant Utilities Assistant to support the operations and maintenance of essential heating and cooling systems. This full-time role involves working with mechanical and electrical equipment, ensuring optimal performance and safety. The successful candidate will monitor equipment, perform repairs, and assist in the training of junior staff. This position offers a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development. If you are passionate about HVAC systems and enjoy hands-on work, this is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact.

Benefits

Diversity and Inclusivity Programs

Professional Development Opportunities

Health Insurance

Retirement Plans

Paid Time Off

Shift Differentials

Overtime Pay

Employee Assistance Programs

Qualifications

• Experience in HVAC systems maintenance and operation.
• Ability to work in confined spaces and at heights.
• Knowledge of safety protocols and equipment.

Responsibilities

• Assist in operations and maintenance of heating systems.
• Monitor equipment and perform preventive maintenance.
• Provide instruction to helpers on routine jobs.

Skills

HVAC Systems

Mechanical Repair

Electrical Systems

Safety Procedures

Education

Associate's Degree in HVAC

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering

HVAC Certificate

Tools

PPE Equipment

Energy Management Systems

Water Treatment Chemicals

Job description

Job Description - Plant Utilities Assistant (NY HELPS) (2500106)

Required Qualifications: Per Civil Service Standards and Specifications. Must have, keep and maintain the appropriate valid NYS Driver’s License; have a motor vehicle record which is free from major violations or a pattern of repeat violations. (***Out-of-State Applicants, see "Special Notes"). Must have the ability to work in confined spaces and from a ladder, scaffolding or man lift over ten feet in height. Incumbents must be able to access equipment in low places, access items most often accessed by ladder and move heavy objects or equipment. Must successfully pass a pulmonary function test to be certified to wear protective equipment (i.e., respirators). The test shall be provided by the department. To be considered for a Plant Utilities Assistant position through the New York Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide program (NY HELPS), you must also meet one of the following requirements:

Either 1. Graduate of heating, HVAC, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration apprenticeship program from the U.S. Air Force;

Or 2. Must have been an enlisted machinery technician (MK) with the U.S. Coast Guard OR possession of a certificate as a Marine Engineer issued by the U.S. Coast Guard;

Or 3. Must have been an enlisted power generation equipment repairer with the U.S. Army;

Or 4. Must have been an enlisted gas turbine systems technician, submarine nuclear propulsion plant operator reactor control, utilities man, machinist mate, or engineman with the U.S. Navy;

Or 5. Must have a Merchant Mariner’s Document (MMD) and have been a qualified member of the engine department (QMED) as an oiler, fireman/water tender, refrigerating engineer or engineman with the U.S. Merchant Marine;

Or 6. Completion of a New York State Department of Labor registered apprenticeship program for stationary engineers, plant maintenance (plumber/steamfitter), HVAC Mechanic or plant maintenance (refrigeration/AC);

Or 7. Possession of a High-Pressure Boiler Operating Engineer License or Stationary Engineer License;

Or 8. A bachelor’s degree in Facilities Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Marine Engineering;

Or 9. An associate’s degree in HVAC;

Or 10. One year of full-time hands-on experience in the maintenance and operation of commercial, industrial, institutional facility, computer applications of digital energy platforms and building analytics and/or performing diagnosis, repair of HVAC systems or boilers or auxiliary equipment;

Or 11. One year of full-time hands-on experience in a residential setting performing diagnosis, operation, maintenance repair of HVAC systems or boilers or auxiliary equipment;

Or 12. Completion of an HVAC certificate or diploma from a BOCES program (440 hours) OR completion of an approved certificate in HVAC, electrical, refrigeration, boiler operations and maintenance, or plumbing from an accredited technical school or college.

Brief Description of Duties: The Plant Utilities Assistant assists the Plant Utilities Engineers in the operations, repairs, and maintenance of stationary equipment and systems including pumps, high pressure steam boilers, high temperature hot water boilers, and auxiliary heating system. These plants provide steam or hot water for heating buildings and for auxiliary use. In a single or multi-building facility, the Plant Utilities Assistant will assist in the operations, repair, and routine maintenance of mechanical and electrical equipment providing heat, ventilation, air-conditioning, and electrical distribution. The incumbent must follow Plant Safety Policies/Procedures and wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times.

Monitoring of equipment consoles includes reading, analyzing, and following up on all console readings, charts, and trouble calls. Adjustment of equipment controls to correct malfunctions when indicated by observation or signals. Reads and records gas, steam, and water levels.

Fills out Incident and Quality Assurance Reports. Advises supervisor when repairs are required. Receives and distributes fuel supplies required for all program locations. Performs minor repairs such as replacing worn gaskets, changing belts, and tightening joints, and assists the Plant Utilities Engineers I with the maintenance and overhaul of boilers and the repair of stationary equipment.

Assists in the repair, maintenance, and operation of alarm and signal systems. Assists in the operation of energy management systems related to lighting, filtering systems, HVAC, and boiler energy management systems. Performs supervised plumbing, electrical, and refrigeration work. Determines if water regulator valves need rebuilding or repair. Threads, solders, or glues and installs pipes, using proper piping and fittings. Repackages pumps and valves.

Performs preventive maintenance on HVAC systems. Uses specific chemicals to treat water in these systems as instructed. Cleans strainers and condenser coils. Maintains steam traps. Changes filters and checks refrigerant levels, identifying and preparing systems for recharging. Regenerates water softeners.

Provides instruction to Plant Utilities Helpers and Maintenance Helpers on routine jobs and equipment inspection. Cleans mechanical rooms as assigned during shifts.

Other duties or projects as assigned, appropriate to rank and departmental mission.

Special Notes: This is a full-time position, 40 hours per week, with shift and pass days varied. Night and weekend work required. FLSA Nonexempt position, eligible for overtime. Internal and external search to occur simultaneously. Candidates on the rehire roster have preference. Salary: SG 9 Hiring Rate $41,399, Job Rate $50,884. Includes location pay of $3,400/year.

The selected candidate must successfully clear a background investigation.

Resume/CV and cover letter should be included with the online application.

We cannot sponsor candidates for work visas.

This title is part of the NY HELPS program. Candidates may be appointed non-competitively initially, but will have their status converted to competitive later, with rights and privileges of state employees. Promotion opportunities are available for qualified employees.

Applicants must include all relevant experience and training. Proof of credentials will be required upon conditional offer. Service records, evaluations, disciplinary history, and physical ability will be considered in selection. Documentation of qualifications is the applicant's responsibility.

Essential Position: This is an essential position, requiring reporting even during emergencies or closures.

***Out-of-State Applicants: Must provide evidence of a valid license and driving record within five days of conditional offer and obtain a NYS driver’s license within 30 days of start date.

Stony Brook University values diversity and inclusivity. All qualified applicants will be considered regardless of protected characteristics.

If you need a disability accommodation, contact the Office of Equity and Access at [phone] or visit OEA.

Crime statistics are available as required by law.

Visit our WHY WORK HERE page for more about our benefits.

Job Number:

2500106

Official Title: Plant Utilities Assistant

Location:

East Campus Power Plant