Boiler Operator- MD Grade 1 (Eligible for $2,500 Sign-On Bonus)

Frederick National Laboratory, operated by Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., addresses urgent and intractable problems in biomedical sciences including cancer, AIDS, drug development, nanotechnology in medicine, and emerging infectious diseases.

About the role

The Facilities Maintenance and Engineering (FME) team supports the NCI at Frederick by maintaining the physical campus, including research and administrative spaces, infrastructure, and landscape. This role involves operating steam boilers in the Central Utility Plant (CUP) to meet campus-wide utility demands and managing related systems.

Responsibilities

• Operate steam boilers in the Central Utility Plant (CUP) to support campus-wide utility demands.
• Produce and distribute steam required for HVAC systems and process-related equipment.
• Use building automation and control systems to monitor and manage boiler operations.
• Stage boilers according to current steam load demands to ensure efficient performance.
• Monitor and fine-tune boiler combustion controls to maintain energy-efficient operation.
• Perform routine daily tasks, including emissions monitoring, chemical treatment, and boiler blowdown procedures.
• Conduct preventive maintenance and minor repairs on boilers, water treatment systems, and auxiliary equipment.
• Replenish all consumables necessary for continued steam production.
• Test boiler water for critical parameters such as conductivity, sulfite, alkalinity, and hardness to ensure system integrity.
• Operate and monitor centrifugal chillers, cooling towers, and chilled water supply systems.
• Work independently and collaboratively with in-house maintenance teams to resolve issues and support operational goals.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety protocols and procedures, including consistent use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Maintain a log of operating levels, adjustments, repairs, and preventive maintenance activities.
• Monitor building automation and alarm systems remotely, including from home and during weekends.
• Provide on-site operational support during emergencies and severe weather events to ensure continuity of operations.
• Respond to 24-hour call-ins for alarm conditions and breakdowns related to steam and chilled water production.
• Support the overall success of Facilities Management & Engineering (FME) by performing additional essential duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or U.S. equivalency for foreign degrees.
• Minimum of five (5) years of related experience.
• State of Maryland Grade 1 Stationary Engineering License.
• Ability to observe and interpret readings from gauges, meters, and charts related to boiler performance.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Physical ability to routinely lift and carry up to 50 lbs, climb stairs and ladders, and perform tasks involving bending, stooping, and working in confined spaces.
• May involve exposure to particulates, vapors, or high-noise environments.
• Ability to maintain accurate documentation of inspections, repairs, and maintenance activities.
• This position is safety-sensitive and subject to random drug testing per the Leidos Biomedical Research Drug Free Workplace Program.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Basic knowledge of building steam and HVAC utilities and plant equipment in commercial/industrial facilities requiring pressurized steam.
• OSHA10 certification.
• Knowledge of Building Automation Systems (BAS).

Job Hazards

This position is subject to atmospheric conditions that require the use of a respirator, necessitating a medical clearance.

Pay

The posted pay range for this job is $65,500.00 - $96,407.00 USD. This range is a general guideline and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered include responsibilities, education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, internal equity, and market alignment. The salary range reflects full-time equivalent pay and may vary for part-time positions.

Benefits

Employment benefits include competitive compensation, health and wellness programs, income protection, paid leave, and retirement plans. More details are available on the Leidos benefits page.