Utility Plant Operator

University of Oregon•Eugene, OR

1d•$40 - $61•Onsite

About The Position

This position serves as a Utilities and Energy campus-wide operator/dispatcher for the University of Oregon, acting as the point of contact for utility distribution issues. The role involves safely operating the UO steam plant (two high-pressure saturated steam boilers), the Combined Cycle Co-Generation plant (CTG/HRSG), and the UO chilled water plant. Responsibilities include distributing the 12,470 Volt electrical load, assisting with "Island Mode" configuration during power outages, regulating access, providing training, maintaining, and monitoring all work in the utility distribution tunnel system. The operator will monitor BAS alarms and controls within the steam and chiller plants, and building HVAC systems. Continuous learning and skill maintenance for automation systems are expected. The role also includes performing preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance on power plant and building equipment. Interactions occur daily with CPFM, the campus community, electrical and maintenance staff, outside contractors, vendors, and regulatory agencies. Decisions made by this position affect the entire University, ensuring a continuous flow of electricity, steam, and chilled water in both normal and emergency situations. This includes decisions on equipment operation, interpreting data, and applying corrective actions.

Requirements

Completed Boiler and Turbine Operator apprenticeship or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Knowledge of turbine generators, centrifugal absorption chillers, high pressure boilers and related technical systems involving electrical, steam, and refrigeration.
Valid Oregon driver's license and acceptable driving record.
Ability to perform duties in a way that advances and supports the mission of the department and university.
Ability to collaborate effectively within a diverse team environment and foster positive relationships for problem solving.
Skilled in taking initiative and proactively addressing tasks that need to be done.
Proficient in paying close attention to detail.
Ability to maintain a safe and safety-conscious workplace.
Ability to maintain a respectful workplace and model a positive and proactive attitude.
Skilled in modeling and upholding the highest ethical standards.
Proficient in delivering superior customer service.
Maintain UO driver's certification eligibility.

Nice To Haves

Experience operating high‑pressure boilers (100+ PSI), industrial chillers (1,000+ tons), steam turbines, and working safely around high‑voltage equipment and lines.
Knowledge and hands‑on background with gas turbines, heat recovery boilers, and utility distribution systems, including steam and chilled water.
Working knowledge of maintenance and operation of boilers, chillers, air compressors, DA tanks, RO units, pumps, and valves.
Experience using industrial and facility software systems such as FactoryTalk, Siemens, PME, Milestone Cameras, and CMMS platforms including AiM.
Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, Teams, Outlook, and Zoom for documentation, communication, and reporting.

Responsibilities

Safely operate the UO steam plant, including two high-pressure saturated steam boilers.
Operate the Combined Cycle Co-Generation plant (CTG/HRSG) and the UO chilled water plant.
Distribute the 12,470 Volt electrical load to UO campus buildings.
Assist with configuring the plant to "Island Mode" during power loss from EWEB.
Regulate access, provide training, maintain, and monitor all work performed in the UO utility distribution tunnel system.
Monitor BAS (building automation system) alarms and controls within the UO steam plant, chiller plant, and building HVAC systems.
Maintain skills for automation systems through daily training and learning.
Complete preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance on all power plant and building equipment.
Respond to emergencies and interact with various stakeholders including CPFM, campus community, staff, contractors, vendors, and regulatory agencies.