Senior Central Utility Plant Manager

JLL; City of Poughkeepsie (NY); On-site; USD 90,000 - 148,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Utility Plant Manager to lead operations in a dynamic environment. This role involves overseeing a 24/7 central utility plant, ensuring optimal performance and compliance with safety standards. You will manage a skilled team, drive operational improvements, and implement innovative solutions for energy efficiency. Join a forward-thinking company that values your expertise and offers a comprehensive benefits package, including career development opportunities and a supportive culture focused on well-being. If you are passionate about leading critical infrastructure operations, this is the opportunity for you!

Benefits

401(k) plan with matching contributions

Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Care

Paid parental leave at 100% of salary

Paid Time Off and Company Holidays

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in utility plant operations.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Expertise in energy efficiency and sustainability practices.

Responsibilities

• Oversee 24/7 operations of the central utility plant.
• Manage a skilled team of utility plant operators.
• Develop and implement preventive maintenance schedules.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-Solving

Regulatory Knowledge

Communication

Continuous Improvement

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

HVAC systems

High-pressure steam systems

Utility distribution systems

Job description

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way.

Our people at JLL and JLL Technologies are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers and to find a place where they belong. Whether you’ve got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you’re looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead Plant Operations:Oversee and manage the 24/7 operations of the central utility plant, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and compliance with all safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Team Leadership & Development:Manage a skilled team of utility plant operators, Refrigeration technicians, Boiler technicians, Controls technicians and support staff. Provide mentorship, foster teamwork, and implement effective training programs to enhance performance and safety.
• Maintenance & Reliability:Develop, implement, and continuously improve preventive maintenance schedules and processes to ensure the plant’s equipment is maintained and operational at all times.
• Efficiency & Optimization:Drive operational improvements by identifying areas for increased efficiency, reducing downtime, and implementing advanced technologies and methodologies.
• Energy Demand Coordination:Collaborate with cross-functional teams to monitor and meet the facility’s energy requirements, aligning utility outputs with organizational needs.
• Budget & Resource Management:Oversee plant budgets, inventory management, and procurement processes to ensure efficient use of resources.
• Crisis Management & Response:Lead the development and execution of emergency response and contingency plans, ensuring the plant can quickly and effectively manage any operational disruptions or crises.
• Regulatory & Compliance Oversight:Ensure the plant adheres to all relevant safety, environmental, and industry regulations, conducting audits and reporting as required.
• Industry Trends & Technology:Stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technological advancements to implement best practices and innovative solutions in plant operations.
• Project Management: Ability to describe in detail required system repairs and communicate that to JLL and client management. Manage CUP related infrastructure projects.
• Response to Emergencies: Respond (24/7) to system emergencies such as boiler failures, chiller failures, City water leaks, Chilled Water leaks, Fire system leaks, Refrigerant leaks and Steam condensate leaks. Operate valve to isolate leaks, recommend repair options and monitor repairs.

Qualifications:

• Education:Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or significant and verifiable related skills.
• Experience:At least 10 years of hands-on experience in utility plant operations, with a minimum of 5 years in a leadership or management role.
• Preferred Background:Maritime or Navy experience is strongly preferred, bringing expertise in complex infrastructure operations.
• Technical Expertise:Proven expertise in the operation, maintenance, and optimization of high-pressure steam systems, HVAC, chilled water, compressed air, and utility distribution systems.
• Leadership Skills:Strong leadership and team management capabilities, with experience in mentoring staff and fostering a collaborative and high-performing team culture.
• Operational Excellence:Track record of successfully managing large-scale plant operations with a focus on safety, reliability, and cost-efficiency.
• Energy & Sustainability:A solid understanding of energy efficiency and sustainability practices and the ability to integrate these principles into plant operations.
• Certifications:Certifications such as Certified Energy Manager (CEM), Professional Engineer (PE), or equivalent are a plus.

Key Competencies:

• Leadership & Strategic Thinking:Ability to lead teams while developing and executing long-term strategies for plant operations.
• Problem-Solving & Decision-Making:Strong critical thinking skills and the ability to make quick, informed decisions under pressure.
• Regulatory & Compliance Knowledge:Deep understanding of relevant industry standards and regulations, with a focus on safety and environmental compliance.
• Communication Skills:Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate technical information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Continuous Improvement:A strong focus on continuous improvement, with the ability to implement and drive operational changes that enhance plant performance and reduce costs.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary, commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, retirement, etc.)
• Career development opportunities in a dynamic, growth-focused environment
• The chance to lead and innovate within a critical infrastructure operation

Application Instructions:
If you are an experienced utility plant manager with a strong background in operations and leadership, we encourage you to apply today. Join our team and play a key role in driving the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of our central utility plant operations.

Estimated total compensation for this position:

90,000.00 – 148,000.00 USD per year

The total compensation range is an estimate and not guaranteed. An employment offer is based on an applicant's education, experience, skills, abilities, geographic location, internal equity and alignment with market data .

Location:

On-site –Poughkeepsie, NY

If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply, even if you don’t meet all the requirements. We’re interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table!

Personalized benefits that support personal well-being and growth:

JLL recognizes the impact that the workplace can have on your wellness, so we offer a supportive culture and comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes mental, physical and emotional health. Some of these benefits may include:

• 401(k) plan with matching company contributions

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Care

• Paid parental leave at 100% of salary

• Paid Time Off and Company Holidays

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