Steam Plant Operator

Colby College; Waterville (ME); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Colby College in Waterville is seeking operators for the central steam plant. This position involves 12-hour shifts operating high-pressure and biomass-fired boilers, along with maintenance responsibilities. Candidates must hold a Maine State High Pressure Stationary Steam Engineer’s license and be able to work independently and safely.

Applicants are encouraged to contribute to the diversity of the College community. Physical demands include lifting up to 50 pounds and managing prolonged computer use.

Qualifications

• Experience in operating high-pressure boilers and auxiliary equipment.
• Ability to perform maintenance on mechanical systems.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain high-pressure boilers and supporting equipment.
• Perform preventive maintenance and repairs on boilers.
• Document steam plant data and ensure safety compliance.

Skills

Operating high-pressure boilers

Maintenance of mechanical equipment

Basic computer skills

Teamwork and communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Maine State High Pressure Stationary Steam Engineer’s license

Job description

Job Summary

Colby seeks operators at the central steam plant to fill 12‑hour shifts, reporting to the engineer in charge of the central heating plant. The position requires the ability to operate high‑pressure boilers, natural gas and biomass‑fired boilers, a turbine generator, and auxiliary equipment. The operator must assist with maintenance of conveyors, rotating equipment, hydraulics, augers, fans, pumps, and similar equipment, providing a comfortable environment for students, faculty, and staff. Candidates who will contribute to the diversity of the College, including cultural and ethnic diversity, are encouraged to apply.

Essential Functions

To perform successfully in this position, an individual must be able to perform essential duties satisfactorily as well as possess education/experience and employ the knowledge, skills, and abilities as listed in representative fashion. Colby College actively supports the Americans with Disabilities Act and will consider reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position. This listing of essential duties is not all‑inclusive, but representative; other duties may be assigned.

Position Qualifications

• Operate high pressure boilers, natural gas, and biomass‑fired boilers, turbine generator and auxiliary equipment.
• Perform all work in a prompt, neat, and careful manner that displays common sense, planning, and thoughtfulness.
• Maintain tools, equipment, and mechanical areas in a neat and clean condition.
• Operate, maintain, and repair conveyors, rotating equipment, hydraulics, auger conveyors and controls, fans, pumps, and similar equipment.
• Work in a positive, cooperative manner with other departmental personnel and the Colby community.
• Notify and/or obtain advice from the Engineer in Charge or call for assistance as may be appropriate in any situation.
• Complete work safely in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Test condition of the boiler water as directed.
• Read and record steam plant data hourly; assist with preventive maintenance and repairs on wood and gas‑fired boilers and all supporting equipment.
• Operate soot blowers.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Maine State High Pressure Stationary Steam Engineer’s license required.
• Ability to operate, maintain, and service the mechanical equipment and systems used in high‑pressure wood and gas‑fired high‑pressure steam plants.
• Ability to operate and maintain and repair conveyors, rotating equipment, hydraulics, auger conveyors and gas burners and controls, fans, pumps, and similar equipment.
• Must be able to work independently, exercise judgment, and manage projects with minimal supervision as well as adjust to new projects as they are assigned.
• Ability to make an impact through work as a member of a team and diverse community.
• Basic computer skills such as email, Word and Excel.

Physical and Mental Demands

The position requires lifting and moving up to 50 pounds, frequent movement around campus, and moderate noise levels. The employee will use a computer for prolonged periods, and must manage interruptions, rapidly shift focus, and maintain confidentiality regarding employee data.