Plant Operator
Department Contact: Victor Palafox, 575-646-3192, vpalafox@nmsu.edu
About the Role
Join our team to keep vital systems running by operating, maintaining, and repairing boilers, chillers, and other critical equipment. This hands-on role supports campus operations and ensures the continuous production and distribution of essential utilities such as heating, cooling, and power.
This position is designated as a primary key role under the “All Hazard Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP)” and is essential to operational continuity and recovery. In emergency situations, you will be required to report to work unless directed otherwise by a supervisor or public safety authorities for health and safety reasons.
Responsibilities
- Monitor and manage water treatment for boilers, cooling towers, and closed-loop systems.
- Maintain a valid State High Pressure Boiler License as required by the State Construction Industries Division.
- Operate and maintain central utility plant equipment to ensure reliable utility production and distribution.
Requirements
- High School diploma and 3 years of relevant experience or an Associate’s Degree and 1 year of relevant experience.
- Must maintain a State High Pressure Boiler License per State Construction Industries Division.
Working Conditions
- Environment: Work involves almost constant exposure to unusual elements, including extreme temperatures, toxic chemicals, biohazardous materials, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, loud noises, and other potentially dangerous materials or situations. Requires adherence to safety precautions and use of protective equipment.
- Physical Effort: Considerable physical activity; physical work constitutes more than 70% of the job. Requires heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling of objects up to 50 pounds.
- Risk: Work environment involves exposure to potentially dangerous materials and situations requiring extensive safety precautions and protective equipment.
Schedule
Standard (Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM).
Pay
Target hourly rate: $19.28.