Power Plant Engineer, Second Class – Shift Lead

University of Massachusetts Amherst; Amherst (MA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Massachusetts Amherst seeks a Second Class Power Plant Engineer to lead daily operations at the Amherst Power Plant. You will supervise a control room and shift personnel, perform routine maintenance, and ensure safe, compliant generation of electricity and steam.

Candidates must hold a 2nd Class Stationary Engineer's license and possess strong engineering knowledge across mechanical, electrical, and safety disciplines.

Qualifications

• The candidate holds a 2nd Class Stationary Engineer's license as required by MA law.
• Knowledge of power plant mechanical and electrical equipment and maintenance.
• Familiarity with power plant safety policies and procedures.
• Understanding of water treatment in plant operations.
• Experience in at least four listed technical skill areas (pipefitting, welding, etc.).
• Ability to operate valves, switches, and controls for plants.
• Proficiency with hand tools and basic rigging equipment.
• Ability to read technical information and drawings for troubleshooting.
• Ability to troubleshoot mechanical and electrical systems while online with supervision.
• Strong English reading/writing and math abilities.
• Effective communication with power plant personnel and vendors.
• Experience with analytical/test equipment and plant CMMS knowledge.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency with Windows-based software and CMMS systems.
• Knowledge of emissions control and monitoring equipment.
• MA Grade 2-1 Certificate required within first year.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all plant operations and guide shift personnel for safe, reliable generation.
• Perform control room duties for gas/oil-fired plant with turbines and boilers.
• Direct supervision of the shift Power Plant Operator; mentor and train staff.
• Ensure site safety requirements and procedures are followed.
• Monitor emissions and keep operation within permitted limits.
• Identify hazards and take corrective actions as needed.
• Maintain accurate shift logs, reports, and records.
• Assist in reporting with the Power Plant Manager/Assistant Plant Manager.
• Perform routine chemical testing and process monitoring.
• Operate valves and adjust controls to regulate flows; read gauges/meters.
• Handle and store ammonia, water treatment chemicals, and fuel oil safely.
• Develop standard operating procedures for operations and maintenance.
• Maintain lockout/tagout logs, boxes, and keys access.
• Utilize the CMMS for maintenance tasks and scheduling.
• Perform basic electrical and mechanical inspections and troubleshooting.
• Execute work orders with quality and safety in mind.
• Support non-discrimination goals in daily operations.

Skills

Power Plant operations

Gas turbine operations

Mechanical & electrical equipment

Safety procedures

Leadership

Communication

Mathematics

English literacy

Reading blueprints

Troubleshooting

Education

Massachusetts Grade 2-1 Certificate of Competency

High school diploma

Tools

Windows-based software

Job description

The University of Massachusetts Amherst seeks a Second Class Power Plant Engineer to lead daily operations at the Amherst Power Plant. You will supervise a control room and shift personnel, perform routine maintenance, and ensure safe, compliant generation of electricity and steam.

Candidates must hold a 2nd Class Stationary Engineer's license and possess strong engineering knowledge across mechanical, electrical, and safety disciplines.