Central Plant Superintendent

Universities of Wisconsin•Milwaukee, WI

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Central Plant Superintendent oversees the operation of the UW–Milwaukee Kenwood Campus Central Plant and six satellite plants, ensuring the safe, reliable, and efficient production and distribution of steam and chilled water on a 24/7/365 basis. The position supervises plant personnel; directs daily operations, maintenance, and contractor activities; manages projects, budgets, and regulatory compliance; and oversees plant control systems, water treatment, fuel systems, and required operational records. The position serves as the campus liaison for Department of Administration (DOA) and Department of Facilities Development (DFD) projects and maintains effective working relationships with university departments, contractors, vendors, and other stakeholders.

Requirements

Five (5) years of progressive experience in power plant operations, including experience with equipment specification, installation, commissioning, operation, testing, reporting, and licensing activities
Experience leading teams and assigning, coordinating, or overseeing operational actions
Effective written and verbal communication skills
Experience developing and executing capital and operational projects while maintaining continuous plant operations
Knowledge of power plant equipment functions, system integration, and interconnected plant systems
Experience making operational decisions, prioritizing work activities, and implementing process improvements in a plant environment
Ability to use required personal protective equipment (PPE)
Ability to lift 50 pounds without assistance
Ability to work in confined spaces
Ability to work at heights up to 35 feet while using fall protection equipment or ladders
Ability to work overtime and rotating shifts, including weekends and holidays

Nice To Haves

Five (5) years of experience in utility or central plant systems leadership
Ten or more years of progressive utility system supervisory experience
Certification by the Department of Safety and Professionals (DSPS) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for the handling of chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) refrigerants
Evidence of having performed service on CFC containing refrigeration equipment
Possession of an American Society of Power Engineers (ASOPE) 2nd Class Power Plant Operators License or equivalent
Obtain and maintain certification as a Class A and Class B Operator of Underground Storage Tank System
Direct experience managing construction projects of any size
Prior Experience Scheduling Plant Personnel
Prior experience with TMA or other computerized maintenance management system
Experience with Workday or other computerized enterprise wide personnel, budget, accounting and procurement system
Possession of a valid Wisconsin Driver’s license

Responsibilities

Direct 24/7/365 plant operations to ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient production and distribution of steam, chilled water, and related utilities.
Supervise, schedule, train, evaluate, and discipline staff; develop position descriptions, establish performance expectations, and oversee payroll responsibilities.
Lead and mentor personnel in safe work practices, operational procedures, and continuous improvement activities.
Make technical decisions and perform or oversee maintenance, repairs, inspections, and operational adjustments to support equipment reliability and plant performance.
Develop, implement, and monitor standard operating procedures; adjust operations based on system conditions, operational requirements, and performance data.
Monitor and maintain plant control systems, including PLCs, MMIs, and VFDs; diagnose operational issues and implement corrective actions.
Plan, coordinate, and oversee daily operational activities, emergency response, and assigned work to maintain continuous utility service.
Manage operational budgets, shop expenditures, and procurement activities for tools, equipment, fuel, and supplies.
Oversee water treatment and testing programs to support boiler operation, efficiency, and equipment reliability.
Prepare operational reports, including monthly Central Plant reports, and maintain accurate plant documentation.
Maintain effective working relationships with campus partners, DOA/DFD personnel, contractors, vendors, and other stakeholders.
Ensure 24/7/365 operational coverage by remaining available or assigning appropriate coverage and responding to plant emergencies as needed.
Develop and manage staff schedules, time reporting, absence approvals, and staffing plans to ensure adequate operational coverage.
Specify, procure, and manage contracted work when services exceed in-house capabilities.
Serve as the DFD Project Liaison for Central Plant projects.
Plan, develop, and manage preventive and predictive maintenance programs.
Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, including DNR fuel sampling, air permit certifications, DSPS inspections, and applicable insurance standards.