Utility Operator

University of Nebraska–Lincoln; Nebraska; On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is seeking a Utility Operator to monitor and control campus steam, electricity, and chilled water systems, assess daily load demands, and operate equipment to meet campus needs safely and reliably.

You will record data in written and electronic formats, communicate shift information, submit work orders for maintenance, and assist with preventive maintenance and equipment repairs.

Qualifications

• High school or equivalent experience.
• Ability to read and interpret operating manuals.
• Ability to understand and execute verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to perform basic mathematical computations.
• Ability to read, understand, follow, and enforce safety procedures.
• Skilled in the use of computer software for word processing, spreadsheets, data entry, and email communication.
• Ability to be available by telephone and work beyond the regular scheduled shift as needed, including 24/7 availability for emergencies, shift coverage, and operational needs.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and meet University driver eligibility requirements.

Responsibilities

• Assess daily steam, electricity, and chilled water load demands and identify and operate equipment to meet campus needs.
• Monitor plant equipment through observation, data analysis, and remote systems to ensure safe and reliable operation.
• Observe and interpret equipment conditions and make necessary adjustments.
• Record data accurately in required written and electronic formats to meet regulatory and internal standards.
• Communicate with team members to support coordinated operations, including shift turnover information and status updates.
• Submit and follow up on work orders for maintenance support.
• Assist maintenance personnel with preventive maintenance and equipment repairs.

Skills

Reading manuals

Verbal and written instructions

Basic math

Safety procedures

Computer skills

24/7 availability

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Position Information

Working Title Utility Operator

Requisition Number S_260722

Posting Open Date 09/04/2026

Application Review Date (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date) 09/15/2026

Open Until Filled Yes

Ranked as one of the Best Employers in Nebraska, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is committed to providing a work environment and culture that fosters personal and professional success and satisfaction. We invest in our staff by offering fantastic benefits like vacation, sick, and holiday pay, a variety of insurance options, retirement plans, and numerous others.
As a Utility Operator, you will:

• Assess daily steam, electricity, and chilled water load demands and identify and operate equipment to meet campus needs.
• Monitor plant equipment through observation, data analysis, and remote systems to ensure safe and reliable operation.
• Observe and interpret equipment conditions (sound, vibration, temperature, pressure, flow, electrical readings) and make necessary adjustments.
• Record data accurately in required written and electronic formats to meet regulatory and internal standards.
• Communicate with team members to support coordinated operations, such as detailed shift turnover information, equipment status, load changes, operational issues, and corrective actions.
• Submit and follow up on work orders for maintenance support.
• Assist maintenance personnel with preventive maintenance and equipment repairs.

Husker Energy and Power has five levels of Utility Operator positions. Placement within a specific level is based on a candidate’s demonstrated knowledge, skills, abilities, relevant experience, and required licensure. Operators at higher levels are assigned expanded responsibilities and more complex duties aligned with the scope and expectations of that level.

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. See https://equity.unl.edu/notice-nondiscrimination/ .

Minimum Required Qualifications

• High school or equivalent experience.
• Ability to read and interpret operating manuals.
• Ability to understand and execute verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to perform basic mathematical computations.
• Ability to read, understand, follow, and enforce safety procedures.
• Skilled in the use of computer software for word processing, spreadsheets, data entry, and email communication.
• Ability to be available by telephone and work beyond the regular scheduled shift as needed, including 24/7 availability for emergencies, shift coverage, and operational needs.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and meet University driver eligibility requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in Energy Generation Operations or a related field, or equivalent of two or more years of experience operating high-pressure boilers, centrifugal chillers, and/or related support systems in a comparable environment.
• Skilled in performing system inspections, making operational adjustments, and maintaining compliance with operating specifications.
• Skilled in the inspection, cleaning, adjustment, installation, repair, and replacement of utility plant equipment.
• Skilled in diagnosing and troubleshooting electrical, mechanical, and other equipment malfunctions, including emergency situations.

Pre-Placement Driving Record Review Required

Yes

Physical Required

Yes

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) required. Subject to DOT approved pre-employment & random testing for alcohol and controlled substances. No

Criminal History Background Check Required

Yes

Posted Salary Salary commensurate with experience

For questions or accommodations related to this position contact

Shea Kinnison, [e-mail]

Job Category (old)

Office/Service

Job Type

Full-Time

Work Location (City, State)

Lincoln, NE

Position funded by grant or other form of temporary funding?

No

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

• * Do you have an Associate’s degree in Energy Generation Operations or a related field, or equivalent of two or more years of experience operating high-pressure boilers, centrifugal chillers, and/or related support systems in a comparable environment.
  • Yes
  • No
  • Unsure