Utility Plant Remote Operator – Facilities Planning and Management

Iowa State University • Ames, IA

2d

About The Position

Iowa State University is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Utility Plant Remote Facility Operator within the Facilities Planning and Management department. This role, under general supervision, is responsible for operating remote thermal energy facilities that generate steam, compressed air, and chilled water for outlying facilities. About the role: Operate and maintain boilers, chillers, and auxiliary equipment in remote thermal energy facilities. Repair and install various piping systems, including flanged, copper, threaded, and plastic. Use chainfalls, hoists, and chokers to safely position large, heavy components. Perform water treatment tasks such as water testing and maintaining chemical feed systems. Maintain and operate reverse osmosis and zeolite softener pretreatment systems. Conduct leak tests, transfer refrigerants, and handle Freon refrigerants in compliance with EPA regulations. Perform minor electrical work, including disconnecting and hooking up electric motor leads, solenoid valves, and other small equipment. Communicate effectively with central utility plant operations to coordinate the operation of remote facility production equipment. About you: Strong mechanical aptitude with knowledge of mechanical, pneumatic, electrical, and gas-powered equipment. Experience in operating and maintaining boilers, chillers, and auxiliary equipment. Knowledge of piping systems and experience in their repair and installation. Familiarity with water treatment processes and chemical feed systems. Understanding of EPA regulations regarding refrigerants. Ability to perform minor electrical tasks. Commitment to safety protocols, including the use and maintenance of PPE. Ability to be trained on new equipment and apply that training effectively. Effective communication skills to interact with operations staff, maintenance teams, and the public, ensuring excellent customer service. About us: Join a team dedicated to the upkeep and improvement of Iowa State University's campus, impacting the lives of students, staff, and faculty every day. FP&M is committed to the growth and well-being of its employees, offering opportunities for both professional and personal development. Be part of a team that plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of our campus infrastructure. Work with a team that values collaboration and collective success. Benefit from resources and support aimed at fostering your career advancement and job satisfaction.

Requirements

• Must have a high school diploma or GED.
• Must maintain a valid driver license and ability to operate university vehicles.
• Four years of experience in the operation and maintenance of gas/oil package boilers, large centrifugal chillers, and absorption chillers.
• Must have the appropriate EPA approved certification to handle refrigerants, Type II (high pressure), Type III (low pressure) or Universal (low & high pressure).
• Possession of a license similar to the State of Minnesota Second Class A Engineer license or ability to become licensed within 6-months.
• Knowledge of power plant systems and equipment, in particular package boilers and chilled water production systems.
• Knowledge of tools and methods used to troubleshoot, repair and maintain chilled water production equipment, package boilers, and piping systems.
• Knowledge of OSHA regulations and the ability to comply with OSHA procedures.
• Knowledge in principles of electricity.
• Skill in the operation of chilled water production equipment and package boilers.
• Ability to interpret and record operating readings.
• Ability to read and understand blueprints, control system drawings, and repair manuals.
• Ability to perform basic math computations.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to provide training and instruction in the repair of production equipment.
• Must be able to move and lift at least 80 lbs.
• Must be able to climb stairs and work in an industrial environment.
• Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.
• Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working in an industrial plant, process plant, or power plant.
• Experience operating gas boilers.
• Experience operating centrifugal chillers.
• Experience in water treatment tasks such as water testing and maintaining chemical feed systems.
• Experience operating pumps, fans, conveyors, or other similar equipment.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain boilers, chillers, and auxiliary equipment in remote thermal energy facilities.
• Repair and install various piping systems, including flanged, copper, threaded, and plastic.
• Use chainfalls, hoists, and chokers to safely position large, heavy components.
• Perform water treatment tasks such as water testing and maintaining chemical feed systems.
• Maintain and operate reverse osmosis and zeolite softener pretreatment systems.
• Conduct leak tests, transfer refrigerants, and handle Freon refrigerants in compliance with EPA regulations.
• Perform minor electrical work, including disconnecting and hooking up electric motor leads, solenoid valves, and other small equipment.
• Communicate effectively with central utility plant operations to coordinate the operation of remote facility production equipment.

Benefits

• Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees