Cogeneration Plant Operator (Operating Engineer)

About the role

The Cogeneration Plant Operator at San Diego State University supports the operation, maintenance, and reliability of the campus central plant and utility systems. This role ensures safe, efficient, and continuous delivery of essential services through equipment operation, maintenance, and system monitoring.

Responsibilities

• Operate, monitor, and maintain central plant equipment, including boilers, turbines, compressors, cooling towers, and utility distribution systems.
• Maintain and repair plant and HVAC systems to maintain optimal performance.
• Respond to service requests and utility disruptions affecting campus operations.
• Document records, reports, inventories, and work documentation.
• Collaborate with other trades and departments to coordinate materials, equipment, and support activities.

Requirements

• Equivalent to two years of hands-on experience in the operation, maintenance and repair of boiler and chiller systems, cogeneration systems, and/or related mechanical equipment.
• Completion of a certificate or other vocational training may be substituted for hands-on experience.
• Must be able to operate boilers and chillers safely and efficiently.
• Monitor energy consumption and adjust equipment and system features.
• Thorough knowledge of cogeneration plant equipment and systems, including gas and steam turbines, HRSGs, boilers, cooling towers, water treatment, and auxiliary systems.
• Working knowledge of system water testing and treatment procedures.
• Ability to lift more than 40 pounds with or without assistance.

Qualifications

• Must have the ability to analyze, respond appropriately to emergency situations and to recognize, secure and report unsafe conditions immediately.
• Must have knowledge of safe working techniques and safety equipment.
• Must be aware of the typical hazards of the workplace as well as the special hazard that may be encountered (biohazards, chemicals, asbestos/lead-containing materials).
• Five years of experience in the operation, maintenance and repair of boiler, chiller and cogeneration systems or related mechanical equipment preferred.
• Turbine Endorsement, City of Los Angeles preferred.
• Building Operator Certification, Level II preferred.

Skills

• Knowledge of cogeneration plant equipment and systems.
• Ability to operate boilers and chillers safely and efficiently.
• Thorough knowledge of cogeneration plant equipment and systems.
• Working knowledge of system water testing and treatment procedures.
• Ability to lift more than 40 pounds with or without assistance.

Benefits

San Diego State University offers a comprehensive benefits package including generous time off, retirement benefits, health coverage, and education support. The position is benefits eligible and permanent/probationary, with a salary range of $5,355-$7,801 per month (Step 1-Step 20).

Pay

The starting salary for this position is not expected to exceed Step 10 ($6,400/month).

Schedule

The selected candidate will begin with a training period from 6:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and will transition to the regular watch rotation schedule of 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. based on operational needs.