3rd Class Power Plant Engineer

Job Summary

The Third Class Power Plant Engineer will oversee the safe and efficient operation of the University of Massachusetts Amherst Central Heating Plant equipment and systems. They will assist with maintenance tasks as assigned and report to the Operations Manager.

Essential Functions

• Performs Central Heating Plant shift operations, ensuring electrical and steam generation are maintained safely and reliably.
• Complies with all site safety requirements and procedures.
• Maintains shift operating logs and records.
• Performs basic electrical and mechanical inspections, trouble-shooting, minor repairs, and maintenance tasks as assigned.
• Performs routine chemical testing.
• Reads and records gauges and meters.
• Opens and closes valves and adjusts controls to regulate flows of operating fluids.
• Responsible for the safe receiving, handling, and storage of ammonia, water treatment chemicals, and fuel oil.
• Cleans, maintains, and/or lubricates power plant and related auxiliary equipment.
• Maintains cleanliness of work areas.
• Assists in developing standard procedures for operations and maintenance.
• Understands and utilizes Central Heating Plant computerized maintenance management system.
• Executes work orders.
• Utilizes safe working habits.
• Identifies hazards and takes corrective action.
• Supports affirmative action and non-discrimination goals.
• Fulfills Central Heating Plant requirements.

Other Functions

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Third-Class Stationary Engineer’s License issued by the Massachusetts Department of Public Safety.
• Grade 2-I full active or higher Certificate of Competency issued by the Massachusetts Board of Certifications of Operators of Wastewater Treatment Facilities.
• (or have the ability to obtain in one year)
• Ability to read and write effectively in English and do basic mathematics.
• Knowledge of power plant mechanical and electrical equipment, including motors, pumps, turbine generators, boilers, fluid systems, chemical handling, water treatment systems, cooling towers, pollution control equipment, AC and DC electrical distribution and control systems, etc. and associated maintenance functions.
• Knowledge of power plant safety policies and procedures, especially in the areas of high-energy systems, chemical handling, heavy equipment, rotating machinery, confined spaces, fire suppression, and first aid.
• Ability to gain thorough knowledge of chemistry and learn power plant chemical applications.
• Experience with at least four (4) of the following skills: pipefitting, welding, machining, rigging, rotating machine repair, fabrication, machine alignment, basic vibration, and using electrical test equipment.
• Ability to operate valves, switches, controls, keyboards, and other devices associated with power plants.
• Ability to use basic hand tools, portable electric and pneumatic tools, and basic rigging equipment, such as winches, hoists, and slings.
• Ability to locate, trouble-shoot, and adjust defects in mechanical equipment and/or to maintain, install, modify, and trouble-shoot plant electrical systems and equipment (even while on-line) without “tripping” equipment, with supervision if necessary.
• Ability to operate and maintain various analytical and test equipment.
• Ability to comprehend and apply technical information, including mechanical and electrical drawings.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• General knowledge of computerized maintenance management systems.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with gas turbine operations.

Work Conditions

Indoor and/or outdoor environments, frequent lifting, bending, tool use or equipment use. May involve work in confined spaces or at heights.

Work Schedule and Work Arrangement

Must work rotating shifts including weekends.

Special Instructions for Applicants

Along with the application, please submit a resume. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references.