Utility Operator

At Lilly, the work is demanding because patients are waiting. We unite caring with discovery to help make life better for people around the world, knowing that every decision, every detail, and every day matters. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, our over 50,000 employees around the globe take on complex challenges to discover and bring life-changing medicines, strengthen how health is understood and managed, and support the communities we serve.

About the role

The Utility Operator at Eli Lilly and Company is responsible for the safe and efficient operation, monitoring, and maintenance of plant utility systems, ensuring continuous and reliable support for manufacturing operations.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor various utility systems including HVAC, chillers, compressed air, purified water, and wastewater treatment in accordance with established procedures and safety guidelines.
• Conduct routine inspections, preventative maintenance, and troubleshooting of utility equipment to identify and resolve issues promptly.
• Record and analyze operational data, making adjustments to optimize system performance and efficiency.
• Respond to alarms and emergencies, implementing appropriate corrective actions to maintain system integrity and prevent downtime.
• Perform chemical testing and analysis on water and other utility systems, ensuring compliance with quality standards.
• Collaborate with other departments, including manufacturing and engineering, to support production schedules and facility projects.
• Adhere to all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and environmental, health, and safety (EHS) regulations.
• Maintain accurate documentation of all maintenance activities, equipment logs, and operational parameters.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance utility system reliability and performance.
• Use of information systems to complete work and communicate with customers (e.g., GMARS, Word, Excel, UMS).

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate degree or technical certification in a relevant field (e.g., HVAC, industrial maintenance, power plant operations) preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in operating and maintaining industrial utility systems within a manufacturing or pharmaceutical environment.
• Ability to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, and be available for on-call duties as required.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds, climb ladders, and work in various environmental conditions.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong understanding of mechanical, electrical, and control systems associated with utility equipment.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting P&IDs, electrical schematics, and equipment manuals.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and repair utility system malfunctions.
• Knowledge of GMP and quality systems relevant to the pharmaceutical industry.
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.

Additional Details

• This position is for 12-hour shift days or nights, or 8-hour M-F shift. However, shift flexibility is a requirement, including weekends and holidays. Utility Operations is a 24-hour operation.
• Hazardous operations exist within Utilities, involving exposure to systems using acid, steam, caustic, high pressure, and high temperatures. Personal protective equipment is required.
• Awkward positions, cramped quarters, ladders, and scaffolding work will be required at times.

Qualified applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Lilly will not provide support for or sponsor work authorization or visas for this role.

Benefits

• Eligibility to participate in a company-sponsored 401(k) and pension plan.
• Vacation benefits and eligibility for medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug benefits.
• Flexible benefits (e.g., healthcare and/or dependent day care flexible spending accounts).
• Life insurance and death benefits.
• Certain time off and leave of absence benefits.
• Well-being benefits (e.g., employee assistance program, fitness benefits, and employee clubs and activities).
• Company bonus (depending, in part, on company and individual performance).

Pay

The anticipated wage for this position is $21.27 - $41.25 per hour.