Plant Operator

Job Description

An employee in this job performs skilled mechanical work maintaining and repairing plant systems and related equipment, is assigned sole shift responsibility for plant operations. Work involves ensuring that steam or chilled water is generated and that operations are conducted in accordance with established operating and safety procedures; taking corrective action to resolve or prevent plant equipment malfunctions; making adjustments and repairs to boilers, chillers, pumps, and related equipment; and documenting and maintaining data regarding plant operations for quality assurance purposes and required reporting to regulatory oversight agencies. Work includes conducting scheduled preventive maintenance on all plant equipment; testing water for proper chemical levels; operating electric generating equipment for electricity production or emergency standby; and recommending changes to improve boiler or chiller plant efficiency. General supervision is received from an Assistant Director of Facilities and Operations who reviews work for compliance with instructions, procedures, and safe operations. Normal work hours are Monday through Friday 6am through 3:30p.

Examples of Duties

• Operates, maintains, and repairs boilers, chillers, and auxiliary equipment in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Ensure optimal and continuous operation of mechanical systems by performing routine inspections, maintenance, cleaning, filter replacement and all other tasks necessary to keep all components performing optimally.
• Create and enter properly documented records of inspections, maintenance routines and repairs.
• Reads gauges, meters, chart recorders, data loggers, and other indicators used to monitor boiler and chiller plant systems; and takes needed action to prevent potential problems.
• Records data on plant operations, equipment maintenance, personnel attendance, and meter and gauge readings and reports required information to supervisor.
• Keeps records for an assigned shift of steam, chilled water, or electricity produced, and fuel or water consumed.
• Adjust and perform necessary repairs and replacement parts to boilers, chillers, pumps, and auxiliary equipment as needed.
• Repairs and re-rolls tubes, and repairs tube bundles.
• Conducts monthly load bank tests on the Emergency Power Supply System (EPSS) to ensure proper operation.
• Replaces pump seals, valves, and fittings.
• Monitors feed and makeup water, tests samples to determine the type and number of inhibitors needed to control impurities, and adds inhibitors as needed.
• Operates and maintains chillers and performs maintenance and repair on cooling towers.
• Communicates critical operating information to Supervisor, monitors contractors and mechanics, by delegating repair, maintenance and monitoring tasks and giving constructive feedback on performance.
• Performs preventive maintenance and cleans the utility plant equipment and areas in accordance with procedures.
• Conducts safety tests and verifies operation of safety devices by monitoring safety equipment, identifying potential issues and taking appropriate steps to suspend operation and repair the problem.
• Paints, cleans, rebuilds, and replaces all operating parts of boilers for annual inspections.
• Recommends changes in utility plant operating procedures to increase operating efficiency.
• Operates steam or electric motor-driven fans, pumps, troubleshoots electrical systems low & high voltage and other related equipment.
• Unloads and receives deliveries for the plant and places materials in designated storage areas.
• An employee in this job participates in the performance of other trades’ tasks consistent with operational and organizational requirements.
• Contacts the supervisor and/or administrators in the event of an emergency or major problem and verifies that action has been taken.
• Carries a beeper during regular shift and may be required to respond to calls after hours.
• For confined space entry, sees that whenever possible another employee is present, and the confined space entry permit is properly filled out.
• Tests equipment as directed including the boiler room monitoring annunciator panel. Checks as per established checklist, each mechanical room and steam station in every campus building. Takes action to rectify any problems of an immediate or emergency nature and notifies supervisor.
• Studies to keep current on knowledge of all applicable in relevant technology, safety laws and regulations to ensure full compliance at all times.
• Performs related work as required.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience
• One year of experience as a Utility Plant Operator 1 (commonwealth title);
or
• One year of semi-skilled work experience in the operation, maintenance, or repair of industrial, commercial, or institutional utility plant systems and related equipment;
or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training that includes six months of semi-skilled work experience in the operation, maintenance, or repair of industrial, commercial, or institutional utility plant systems and related equipment.
• Certain positions require possession of an EPA Universal Refrigerant Transition and Recovery Certification types 1,2, and 3, from an approved provider within 6 months of employment.
• Certain positions require possession of an active Class C motor vehicle license.

Essential Skills
• Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of utility plant systems and related equipment.
• Knowledge of utility plant hazards and safety procedures.
• Ability to read and interpret chart recorders.
• Ability to operate and configure data loggers and collect, store, and analyze the data.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally.
• Ability to communicate effectively in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Conditions of Employment
Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology is a residential, two-year technical college that serves economically disadvantaged as well as tuition-paying students. The College prepares students for skilled employment in a diverse, ever-changing workforce and for full, effective participation as of the community, the Commonwealth, and the nation. Committed for over a century to lifelong learning, inclusiveness, and community outreach, Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology dedicates itself to the development of Pennsylvania's technical workforce. For information about the College, visit www.stevenscollege.edu.

Work Environment: The workplace will primarily encompass the central utility plant, a hub of activity housing various equipment and machinery essential for heating, cooling, and providing electricity across campus. This environment is characterized by its mechanical infrastructure, including boilers, chillers, generators, and distribution systems, all of which require regular monitoring and maintenance.

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. This position will encounter diverse physical demands integral to maintaining the campus's essential utility systems. Expect tasks such as lifting and carrying equipment or materials, navigating through machinery and infrastructure, and performing inspections in various indoor and outdoor environments. The position will work at heights, in confined spaces, and occasionally in inclement weather conditions. The role may involve moderate to heavy physical exertion, including bending, kneeling, and climbing, as well as prolonged periods of standing or walking. Safety awareness and adherence to proper lifting techniques will be essential to prevent injuries. Overall, the position requires physical stamina, agility, and adaptability to effectively meet the demands of ensuring the smooth operation of campus utilities.