Senior Central Utility Plant Manager

JLL•Poughkeepsie, NY

2d•Onsite

About The Position

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way. Our people at JLL are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers and to find a place where they belong. Whether you’ve got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you’re looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward. Job Title: Senior Central Utility Plant Manager Location: Poughkeepsie, NY Position Overview: We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Central Utility Plant Manager to lead the operations of our large-scale central utility plant. This critical role will be responsible for overseeing the performance, efficiency, and safety of plant systems, including high-pressure steam, chilled water, HVAC, compressed air, and associated distribution systems. The ideal candidate will have a robust background in utility operations, with preference given to those with maritime or Navy experience. This is an exceptional opportunity for a strategic, results-oriented leader to manage complex infrastructure and drive innovation in energy efficiency and sustainability.

Requirements

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or significant and verifiable related skills.
Experience: At least 10 years of hands-on experience in utility plant operations, with a minimum of 5 years in a leadership or management role.
Technical Expertise: Proven expertise in the operation, maintenance, and optimization of high-pressure steam systems, HVAC, chilled water, compressed air, and utility distribution systems.
Leadership Skills: Strong leadership and team management capabilities, with experience in mentoring staff and fostering a collaborative and high-performing team culture.
Operational Excellence: Track record of successfully managing large-scale plant operations with a focus on safety, reliability, and cost-efficiency.
Energy & Sustainability: A solid understanding of energy efficiency and sustainability practices and the ability to integrate these principles into plant operations.
Key Competencies: Leadership & Strategic Thinking: Ability to lead teams while developing and executing long-term strategies for plant operations.
Problem-Solving & Decision-Making: Strong critical thinking skills and the ability to make quick, informed decisions under pressure.
Regulatory & Compliance Knowledge: Deep understanding of relevant industry standards and regulations, with a focus on safety and environmental compliance.
Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate technical information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Continuous Improvement: A strong focus on continuous improvement, with the ability to implement and drive operational changes that enhance plant performance and reduce costs.

Nice To Haves

Preferred Background: Maritime or Navy experience is strongly preferred, bringing expertise in complex infrastructure operations.
Certifications: Certifications such as Certified Energy Manager (CEM), Professional Engineer (PE), or equivalent are a plus.

Responsibilities

Lead Plant Operations: Oversee and manage the 24/7 operations of the central utility plant, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and compliance with all safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
Team Leadership & Development: Manage a skilled team of utility plant operators, Refrigeration technicians, Boiler technicians, Controls technicians and support staff. Provide mentorship, foster teamwork, and implement effective training programs to enhance performance and safety.
Maintenance & Reliability: Develop, implement, and continuously improve preventive maintenance schedules and processes to ensure the plant’s equipment is maintained and operational at all times.
Efficiency & Optimization: Drive operational improvements by identifying areas for increased efficiency, reducing downtime, and implementing advanced technologies and methodologies.
Energy Demand Coordination: Collaborate with cross-functional teams to monitor and meet the facility’s energy requirements, aligning utility outputs with organizational needs.
Budget & Resource Management: Oversee plant budgets, inventory management, and procurement processes to ensure efficient use of resources.
Crisis Management & Response: Lead the development and execution of emergency response and contingency plans, ensuring the plant can quickly and effectively manage any operational disruptions or crises.
Regulatory & Compliance Oversight: Ensure the plant adheres to all relevant safety, environmental, and industry regulations, conducting audits and reporting as required.
Industry Trends & Technology: Stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technological advancements to implement best practices and innovative solutions in plant operations.
Project Management: Ability to describe in detail required system repairs and communicate that to JLL and client management. Manage CUP related infrastructure projects.
Response to Emergencies: Respond (24/7) to system emergencies such as boiler failures, chiller failures, City water leaks, Chilled Water leaks, Fire system leaks, Refrigerant leaks and Steam condensate leaks. Operate valve to isolate leaks, recommend repair options and monitor repairs.
Engineering Support: Provide Engineering support and assistance to other facility departments on client campus.

Benefits

Competitive salary, commensurate with experience
Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, retirement, etc.)
Career development opportunities in a dynamic, growth-focused environment
The chance to lead and innovate within a critical infrastructure operation
Personalized benefits that support personal well-being and growth: JLL recognizes the impact that the workplace can have on your wellness, so we offer a supportive culture and comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes mental, physical and emotional health.
401(k) plan with matching company contributions
Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Care
Paid parental leave at 100% of salary
Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
Early access to earned wages through Daily Pay