Steam Plant Operator I

University of Missouri-Columbia; Columbia Township (MO); On-site; USD 30,307 - 34,440; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision plans

Retirement and paid time off

Educational fee discounts

Job summary

The University of Missouri-Columbia is seeking a Steam Plant Operator I to join the MU Energy Management team. This role involves training and performing tasks related to the operation of steam production equipment and potable water systems, essential for maintaining our utility services across campus.

Candidates should have at least a high school diploma and industrial experience, with advancement opportunities available. This position offers a rotating shift and an hourly wage between $22.00 and $25.00.

Qualifications

• A high school diploma or equivalent experience is necessary.
• One year of industrial and/or mechanical plant experience is desired.
• Possession of a valid driver's license is required.

Responsibilities

• Operate potable water pumping stations and associated equipment.
• Assist in general boiler plant operation.
• Maintain proper operation of material handling systems.

Skills

Industrial and mechanical plant experience

Potable water system operation

Mechanical troubleshooting

Education

High school graduate or equivalent

Job description

Job Description

Powering Mizzou's Future

At MU Energy Management, we don't just keep the lights on - we power the future. Our team is responsible for producing, purchasing, and delivering essential utility services across the University of Missouri campus. At the heart of our operations is the cutting‑edge Combined Cooling, Heating, and Power Plant (CCHP), which generates steam, chilled water, and electricity to heat, cool, and energize more than 17 million square feet of academic, research, athletic, and healthcare facilities.

Our impact extends far beyond energy generation. With more than 100 miles of underground utility distribution systems beneath the campus, Utility Distribution provides cost‑effective, reliable, and resilient services that power the University's academic and research excellence.

If you are passionate about energy, innovation, and resiliency, join a team that keeps Mizzou running - and thriving.

Position: Steam Plant Operator I

Nature and Level of Work:

Under direct supervision, train for and perform tasks in the operation of the potable water system, steam production equipment, fuel and ash handling systems, and various auxiliary systems in the power plant.

Key Responsibilities

• Routinely check and operate potable water pumping stations, and associated equipment to maintain proper system water pressure. Routinely check, test and adjust as required the chlorination systems to maintain proper disinfection levels at all times. Report problems as they arise. Perform minor maintenance and housekeeping as required. Investigate and report problems.
• Assist the Steam Plant Operator II with the following tasks: general boiler plant operation, including boiler draft and combustion control, feed water, steam systems, auxiliary equipment monitoring and operation, blowing soot in the boilers, blowing down the boiler headers/water columns, and maintaining proper boiler water chemistry. Perform minor maintenance as required; investigate and report problems.
• Assist in the operation of power plant material handling systems, including coal and biomass conveyor equipment. Remove ashes from the boilers and baghouse and operate ash conveyor equipment. Assist in the unloading of fuel delivery and loading ash trucks. Perform minor maintenance as required; investigate and report problems.
• Assist in the operation of all power plant auxiliary equipment and become familiar with safe operating procedures. Perform general housekeeping, routine maintenance, lubrication and minor maintenance as required; investigate and report problems.
• Complete all requirements of the Steam Plant Operator I Training Program. Attend and participate in additional operator training as required.
• Safely coordinate work with power plant control room operators and maintenance personnel to prevent upset and/or trip of the plant and plant systems.
• Complete all required department environmental and safety training and follow all related department policies and procedures. Attend and participate in all required safety meetings, programs and training.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Advancement opportunities: Steam Plant Operator II, Power Plant Operator I, Power Plant Operator II, Lead Power Plant Operator.

Supervision Received

• Functional and administrative supervision is received from a designated supervisor.

Supervision Exercised

• No supervision is exercised.

Shift

Rotating Shift

Minimum Qualifications

A high school graduate or an equivalent combination of experience and education from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities can be acquired is necessary.

One year of industrial and/or mechanical plant experience, or equivalent experience where machine operation has been emphasized. Prior boiler plant experience is desired.

Possession of a valid driver's license which will allow legal operation of a motor vehicle in the State of Missouri.

Preferred Qualifications

A valid motor vehicle driver's license is required.

Anticipated Hiring Range

Salary Range: $22.00 - 25.00 hourly

Grade: GGS-E

University Title: Steam Plant Operator I

Internal applicants can determine their University title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Union Bid Information

The internal union bid period for this position ended on 6/26. All qualified internal and external candidates are now welcome to apply.

In order to be considered as a Union Bidder for this position you must:

• Complete all sections of the application (including all work experience— incomplete applications will not be considered).
• Complete six months of regular service at the University.
• Apply within the published, five‑day posting period.
• Meet the minimum qualifications for the vacancy.

Your qualifications for this position will be evaluated based on the information you provide on your job application. Once the job posting period is closed, there will be no opportunity to submit additional information regarding your qualifications. Therefore, you need to ensure that your application materials are complete when submitted.

Union Bid Period: 6/22/2026 - 6/26/2026

Benefit Eligibility

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short‑ and long‑term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/departments-staff/human-resources/benefits-retirement

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.