Utility Plant Operator Apprentice & Power Plant Operator

University of Arkansas System • Fayetteville, AR

2d • $39,930 - $63,138 • Onsite

About The Position

The University of Arkansas, Fayetteville is hiring for Utility Plant Operator Apprentice and Power Plant Operator roles in Plant Operations & Maintenance. These positions perform comprehensive operations and maintenance functions across utility plants, control rooms, distribution locations, utility tunnels, and building utility rooms on a rotating 24-hour shift schedule. Employees help ensure safe and reliable operation of plant equipment and engineering systems by identifying issues, taking corrective action, and maintaining utility distribution infrastructure through inspections, preventive maintenance, repairs, component replacements, and new system installations.

Regular, reliable, and non-disruptive attendance is essential, as is the ability to establish and maintain collegial, harmonious working relationships. The positions require varying work hours and may involve extended work periods when necessary. Salary varies by level, from $39,930 for Apprentice I to $63,138 for Operator III, and is commensurate with education and experience.

Requirements

• Formal education equivalent to a high school diploma.
• Valid driver's license in good standing.
• Ability to obtain a DOT Gas Operator’s License and an Arkansas Boiler Operators License within six months of employment.
• Apprentice I: no additional experience required.
• Apprentice II: at least one year of experience troubleshooting and performing corrective maintenance on industrial and commercial chillers, boilers, turbines, or a related field.
• Apprentice III: at least two years of experience troubleshooting and performing corrective maintenance on industrial and commercial chillers, boilers, turbines, or a related field.
• Apprentice IV: at least three years of experience troubleshooting and performing corrective maintenance on industrial and commercial chillers, boilers, turbines, or a related field.
• Operator I: four years of experience troubleshooting and performing corrective maintenance on industrial and commercial chillers, boilers, turbines, or a related field.
• Operator II: five years of experience troubleshooting and performing corrective maintenance on industrial and commercial chillers, boilers, turbines, or a related field.
• Operator III: seven years of experience troubleshooting and performing corrective maintenance on industrial and commercial chillers, boilers, turbines, or a related field.
• Ability to maintain an Arkansas Boiler Operator’s License and a DOT Gas Operator License.
• Knowledge of methods, best practices, safety procedures, laws, and regulations relating to utility plant operations and Mechanical Code.
• Ability to read blueprints, manuals, schematics, building plans, and one-line drawings.
• Ability to use power tools, machinery, and hand tools associated with skilled trades.
• Ability to work varying hours and extended periods when necessary.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds, stand for extended periods, open and close valves, reach overhead, and bend at the waist and knees.
• Ability to evaluate situations and make sound decisions.
• Knowledge and use of a CMMS or work-order management system and mobile technology.
• Basic understanding of Microsoft Office programs, such as email and spreadsheets.
• Applicable qualification equivalencies may be considered.

Nice To Haves

• Arkansas Boiler Operator’s License.
• DOT Gas Operator License.
• OSHA certification.
• Completion of required education or training and Journeyman certification in Electrician, Plumber, or HVAC Mechanic.
• Completion of the UARK Apprenticeship Training Program.
• One year of experience using the FAMIS CMMS System or an equivalent.
• Experience leading or managing a team.

Responsibilities

• Perform operations and maintenance functions across utility plants, control rooms, distribution locations, utility tunnels, and building utility rooms.
• Help ensure the safe and reliable operation of plant equipment and engineering systems.
• Proactively identify operational issues and execute necessary corrective actions.
• Maintain utility distribution infrastructure through regular inspections, preventive maintenance, repairs, component replacements, and new system installations.
• Maintain regular, reliable, and non-disruptive attendance and collegial working relationships.

Benefits

• Health insurance with university contributions.
• Dental insurance with university contributions.
• Life insurance with university contributions.
• Disability insurance with university contributions.
• Tuition waivers for employees and their families.
• 12 official holidays.
• Immediate leave accrual.
• Choice of retirement programs with university contributions ranging from 5% to 10% of employee salary.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED