Steam/Chiller Operator

JLL•Nashville, TN

22h•Onsite

About The Position

The Steam/Chiller Operator plays a critical role in maintaining optimal building performance and occupant comfort across JLL-managed facilities. You'll be responsible for operating and maintaining central heating, cooling, and mechanical systems including boilers, chillers, cooling towers, and related HVAC equipment. This hands-on position ensures continuous, efficient operation of mission-critical building systems while supporting JLL's commitment to sustainability, energy efficiency, and exceptional client service. As the technical expert on-site, you'll monitor system performance, conduct preventive maintenance, troubleshoot equipment issues, and respond to emergencies—all while ensuring compliance with safety regulations and contributing to JLL's reputation for operational excellence in facility management.

Requirements

Valid Boiler Operator License (Class/Grade as mandated by local jurisdiction) with current standing and ability to maintain certification throughout employment.
Minimum 3-5 years of hands-on experience operating and maintaining steam boilers, centrifugal/absorption chillers, and central plant mechanical equipment in commercial or institutional facilities.
Demonstrated knowledge of HVAC systems, building automation systems (BAS), chilled water systems, and mechanical equipment operations with ability to read technical drawings, schematics, and equipment manuals.
Strong mechanical troubleshooting skills with proven ability to diagnose equipment problems, perform repairs, and make sound decisions under pressure during emergency situations.
Flexibility to work rotating shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays, with ability to respond to after-hours emergency calls as part of on-call rotation schedule.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree or technical certification in HVAC, Building Automation, Mechanical Engineering Technology, or related technical discipline from an accredited institution.
EPA Universal Refrigerant Handling Certification (Section 608) demonstrating knowledge of refrigerant recovery, recycling, and environmental compliance requirements.
Experience with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) such as Maximo, JDE, or similar platforms for work order management and equipment history tracking.
Knowledge of energy management principles, building commissioning processes, and sustainability initiatives supporting LEED or Energy Star certification programs.
Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), direct digital controls (DDC), and various building automation platforms including Johnson Controls, Siemens, Trane, or Schneider Electric systems.

Responsibilities

Monitor and operate steam boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, air handlers, and building automation systems to maintain specified environmental conditions and optimize energy efficiency throughout the facility.
Perform daily equipment inspections and record operational data including temperatures, pressures, flow rates, and energy consumption in logs and computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).
Execute preventive maintenance tasks such as lubrication, filter replacements, belt adjustments, water treatment testing, and minor mechanical repairs to ensure reliable equipment operation and extend asset life.
Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and system anomalies, determining root causes and implementing corrective actions or coordinating with contractors for complex repairs requiring specialized expertise.
Conduct safety inspections of mechanical spaces and equipment, ensuring compliance with OSHA regulations, local boiler codes, and JLL safety protocols while maintaining clean, organized work areas.
Respond to building emergencies, system alarms, and tenant comfort complaints, taking immediate action to resolve issues and restore normal operations while minimizing disruption to building occupants.
Document all maintenance activities, equipment performance trends, and incidents in work order systems, providing accurate reporting to facility management on system conditions and energy performance metrics.