Plant Specialist - Utilities

Job Description

The Utility Operator provides technical operations and maintenance support for the Utilities Department to ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of critical plant utility systems. This role is responsible for operating, monitoring, troubleshooting, and maintaining equipment such as boilers, chillers, air compressors, and GMP water treatment systems. The Utility Operator collaborates with supervisors, area operators, and maintenance technicians to coordinate Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures, prepare equipment for maintenance activities, and complete post-maintenance documentation. The position also supports equipment improvements and process changes while ensuring compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards.

Responsibilities

• Provide operational and technical maintenance support for utility systems, including boilers, chillers, air compressors, GMP water treatment systems, high-pressure steam systems, turbines, cooling towers, and water distribution systems.
• Monitor, operate, troubleshoot, and resolve routine equipment and system issues independently, escalating complex problems when appropriate.
• Collaborate with Plant Maintenance, Engineering, contractors, supervisors, and area operators to ensure equipment readiness.
• Coordinate and support maintenance activities by performing Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) activities to safely prepare utility equipment for maintenance and repair.
• Aid with equipment modifications, reliability improvements, capital projects, and energy conservation initiatives in collaboration with Process Engineering.
• Complete required documentation accurately and in a timely manner, including maintenance records, corrective maintenance reports, operating logs, and shift communications.
• Serve as a utility operator during staffing shortages or operational needs to maintain continuous plant operations.
• Maintain compliance with current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), company procedures, and documentation requirements to ensure product Safety, Identity, Strength, Purity, and Quality (SISPQ).
• Adhere to Environmental, Safety, Health, and Security (ESHS) policies by following safe work practices, wearing required PPE, identifying hazards, and reporting incidents or quality concerns promptly.
• Communicate effectively with cross-functional teams to support safe, reliable utility operations and promote continuous improvement through knowledge sharing and operational support.

Requirements

• A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Certification or training in boiler operation, HVAC, and/or water treatment is preferred.
• Familiarity with regulatory standards (e.g., OSHA, EPA) is beneficial.
• Experience with preventative maintenance systems is advantageous.
• Willingness to work 12-hour shifts, including days and nights, is necessary.
• A valid driver's license is required.
• Expertise in troubleshooting complex operational issues is essential.
• Physical ability to lift up to 25 kg, wear personal protective equipment, and work in high noise and temperature environments is needed.
• Ability to ascend/descend stairs and enter confined spaces for inspections is required.

Working Conditions

• Hazardous conditions involving the use of acids, caustics, other hazardous chemicals, and potential allergens are present.
• Shifts are 8 hours long, with weekends off.
• The work station is located in T-6; activity will range throughout the plant.