Utilities Operator

University of Florida•Gainesville, FL

4d•$19 - $22

About The Position

Maintains proper cooling and heating temperatures, pressures, and flow rates in the chilled water and steam district energy systems to support the proper operation of building systems. Regulates the operation of plant equipment inclusive of chillers, fans, pumps, motors, VFD’s, piping leaks as a function of make-up water, deaerators, boilers, boiler feed water, air compressors and generators. Adheres to procedures for lock-out/tagout and works with maintenance mechanics to reset equipment for planned and emergency outages. Communicates with supervisors of operations and maintenance when plant operations are not in alignment with service quality standards. Conducts periodic inspections to ensure that all equipment and controls are operating properly and are in good condition. Takes and compiles routine plant readings and maintains production and consumption records. Receives, records and communicates information relevant to previous and following shifts. Reports defects, and recommends improvements, alterations and repairs to Operations Supervisor. Clearly notes any problem situations in plant log. Responds to problems and initiates emergency communication protocols as appropriate. Complies with safety procedures. Identifies the nature of the problem and takes appropriate action to ensure safety and minimize property or equipment damage and minimize the disruption to customers. Responds to problems with other utility systems on campus, including distributed steam and chilled water, potable water, reclaimed water and sanitary and electrical services. Maintains communication during assigned shifts through radio or cell phone communications with on-duty and emergency personnel at all times. Maintains the plant in sanitary and orderly condition. Coordinates plant operation with other utility or energy companies or departments as needed. Assists Operation Supervisor and Plant Superintendent as required. Performs related duties as assigned.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent and one year of appropriate experience.
Appropriate vocational/technical training may substitute at an equivalent rate for the required experience.
EPA Universal Refrigerant Certification (Obtain within 6 months of hire date)
Successful candidate will participate in the University’s designated education advancement program.
Ability to Operate or coordinate work assignments and to communicate effectively.
Ability to represent the Utilities and Energy Department in a courteous and professional manner to other UF entities.
Ability to take direction and complete tasks with minimal oversight.

Nice To Haves

2+ years of experience in monitoring and troubleshooting Utility Plants
Knowledge of the procedure and methods used in the operation and maintenance of boilers and chilled water plants with proven experience in support of plant operations.
Familiarity with a computerized maintenance management system
Boiler operator certification
Ability to use MS Office at an intermediate level

Responsibilities

Maintains proper cooling and heating temperatures, pressures, and flow rates in the chilled water and steam district energy systems.
Regulates the operation of plant equipment inclusive of chillers, fans, pumps, motors, VFD’s, piping leaks as a function of make-up water, deaerators, boilers, boiler feed water, air compressors and generators.
Adheres to procedures for lock-out/tagout and works with maintenance mechanics to reset equipment for planned and emergency outages.
Communicates with supervisors of operations and maintenance when plant operations are not in alignment with service quality standards.
Conducts periodic inspections to ensure that all equipment and controls are operating properly and are in good condition.
Takes and compiles routine plant readings and maintains production and consumption records.
Receives, records and communicates information relevant to previous and following shifts.
Reports defects, and recommends improvements, alterations and repairs to Operations Supervisor.
Clearly notes any problem situations in plant log.
Responds to problems and initiates emergency communication protocols as appropriate.
Complies with safety procedures.
Identifies the nature of the problem and takes appropriate action to ensure safety and minimize property or equipment damage and minimize the disruption to customers.
Responds to problems with other utility systems on campus, including distributed steam and chilled water, potable water, reclaimed water and sanitary and electrical services.
Maintains communication during assigned shifts through radio or cell phone communications with on-duty and emergency personnel at all times.
Maintains the plant in sanitary and orderly condition.
Coordinates plant operation with other utility or energy companies or departments as needed.
Assists Operation Supervisor and Plant Superintendent as required.
Performs related duties as assigned.