Utilities Plant Operator - Night Shift

North Carolina State University; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, and Vision

Flexible Spending Account

Retirement Programs

Paid Time Off

Tuition and Academic Assistance

Wellness & Recreation Membership

Job summary

North Carolina State University is seeking a skilled Utility Plant Operator to manage our central utility systems effectively. You will control and maintain steam boilers, chillers, and cogeneration equipment, ensuring a reliable operation that directly supports the university community.

This role requires a high school diploma and relevant experience, with a preference for candidates familiar with utility system operations. Join us to make a direct impact on campus comfort and efficiency.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency and one year of related experience.
• Maintains required certifications.
• Experience in central plant environment preferred.

Responsibilities

• Control and operate steam boilers, chillers, cogeneration equipment.
• Maintain operations of plant systems and compliance with regulations.
• Perform routine maintenance on plant equipment.

Skills

Experience with combustion gas turbines/cogeneration

Experience in steam production

Experience in chilled water production

Ability to maintain operation of utility systems

Education

High school diploma or equivalency

Tools

Steam boilers

Chillers

Cogeneration equipment

Job description

About the Department

The NC State University Facilities Division is home to nearly 900 professionals who plan, build and maintain the spaces that foster an environment where innovation, learning, and community thrive. Through this work, we help create spaces that empower students, faculty, and staff to reach their full potential. Operating year‑round, we manage more than 16.7 million gross square feet of built space and oversee 4,733 acres of campus infrastructure through a series of core departments, each composed of multiple specialized units:

• Design & Construction
• Business Operations
• Campus Operations and Maintenance
• Campus Planning and Strategic Investment

Whether responding to a maintenance request, shaping future facilities or creating spaces that inspire discovery, our team is grounded in excellence, service and stewardship.

Wolfpack Perks and Benefits

As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well‑being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Flexible Spending Account
• Retirement Programs
• Disability Plans
• Life Insurance
• Accident Plan
• Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
• 12 Holidays Each Year
• Tuition and Academic Assistance
• And so much more!

Attain Work‑life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.

Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part‑Time or Full‑Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.

Responsibilities

Are you looking to power the future of a world‑class campus? We are seeking a skilled Utility Plant Operator to join our team. In this role, you won’t just be maintaining equipment—you’ll be the backbone of our university’s infrastructure, ensuring the lights stay on and the campus stays comfortable.

As a Utility Plant Operator, you will be responsible for the reliable operation of our central utility systems. From managing our advanced Cates Cogeneration Facility to overseeing massive chilled water systems, your expertise will directly impact thousands of students, faculty, and researchers every day.

• Control, monitor, and operate steam boilers, chillers, cogeneration equipment, and auxiliary systems to provide continuous utility services.
• Maintain safe and efficient operation of steam, hot water, and chilled water production systems.
• Perform realtime monitoring of plant systems, make operational adjustments, and ensure compliance with emissions, safety, and regulatory requirements.
• Inspect, operate, and perform routine maintenance on plant equipment, including fuel gas compressors, pumps, air filters, cooling towers, and related systems.
• Support the operation of the Cates Cogeneration Facility to produce electricity and steam for campus use.
• Identify and respond to equipment or system issues, escalating concerns to the shift supervisor as appropriate.
• Other tasks and responsibilities may be assigned based on the needs of the organization and evolving priorities.

Qualifications

Minimum Experience/Education
High school diploma or equivalency and one year of related experience; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Maintains required certification(s).

• Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with combustion gas turbines/cogeneration.
• Experience in steam production (natural gas/fuel oil fire tube and water tube boilers up to 100kpph).
• Experience in chilled water production (electric driven/turbine driven up to 2000 tons).
• Experience in a central plant environment.

• Required License or Certification
• A valid driver's license is required.
• North Carolina Driver's License required within 60 days of hire and must be maintained.
• Valid NC Driver's License required: Yes
• Commercial Driver's License Required: No

EEO Statement

NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability‑related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919‑513‑0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515‑2135 or [e-mail].

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.

NC State University participates in E‑Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.