Utility Plant Operator

About the role

This position serves as a Utilities and Energy campus wide operator/dispatcher for the University of Oregon, and acts as the point of contact for utility distribution issues at the University of Oregon. This position will safely operate the UO steam plant, which consists of two high-pressure saturated steam boilers with the combined capacity of 125,000 lbs per hour; One Combined Cycle Co-Generation plant (CTG/HRSG) capable of generating 7.5 MW (Gas Turbine) and 65,000 lbs of 600-psi steam: 3.5 MW (Steam Turbine). It will also operate the UO chilled water plant that consists of (5) electric centrifugal chillers with capacity of 7,500 tons of cooling with the additional 3 million gallon thermal tank, 18 cooling towers, pumps and associated equipment. The operator is responsible for the distribution of the 12,470 Volt electrical load to the UO campus buildings, and will assist with configuring the plant to "Island Mode" if loss of power occurs from EWEB. The incumbent is responsible for regulating access, providing training, maintaining the operation, and monitoring all work performed in the UO utility distribution tunnel system. This position monitors BAS (building automation system) alarms, and controls within the UO steam plant, and chiller plant, and building HVAC system.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate the UO steam plant, which consists of two high-pressure saturated steam boilers with the combined capacity of 125,000 lbs per hour; One Combined Cycle Co-Generation plant (CTG/HRSG) capable of generating 7.5 MW (Gas Turbine) and 65,000 lbs of 600-psi steam: 3.5 MW (Steam Turbine).
• Operate the UO chilled water plant that consists of (5) electric centrifugal chillers with capacity of 7,500 tons of cooling with the additional 3 million gallon thermal tank, 18 cooling towers, pumps and associated equipment.
• Distribute the 12,470 Volt electrical load to the UO campus buildings, and assist with configuring the plant to "Island Mode" if loss of power occurs from EWEB.
• Regulate access, provide training, maintain the operation, and monitor all work performed in the UO utility distribution tunnel system.
• Monitor BAS (building automation system) alarms, and controls within the UO steam plant, and chiller plant, and building HVAC system.
• Maintain the skills necessary for the ever-changing technology based automation systems, by training and learning daily.
• Complete preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance on all power plant, and building equipment.
• Interact with CPFM and the campus community in the course of performing work and responding to emergencies.
• Work with electrical and maintenance staff within the Utilities and Energy Department on a daily basis.
• Communicate with outside contractors, vendors, and regulatory agencies (LRAPA and DEQ).
• Make decisions regarding when to start or stop equipment, interpret equipment data, and apply corrective actions.

Requirements

Completed Boiler and Turbine Operator apprenticeship or equivalent combination of education and experience to include knowledge of turbine generators, centrifugal absorption chillers, high pressure boilers and related technical systems involving electrical, steam, and refrigeration. Position requires valid Oregon driver's license and acceptable driving record.

Qualifications

Knowledge and hands-on background with gas turbines, heat recovery boilers, and utility distribution systems, including steam and chilled water. Working knowledge of maintenance and operation of boilers, chillers, air compressors, DA tanks, RO units, pumps, and valves. Experience using industrial and facility software systems such as FactoryTalk, Siemens, PME, Milestone Cameras, and CMMS platforms including AiM. Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, Teams, Outlook, and Zoom for documentation, communication, and reporting.

Skills

Ability to perform duties in a way that advances and supports the mission of the department and university. Ability to collaborate effectively within a diverse team environment and foster positive relationships for problem solving. Skilled in taking initiative and proactively addressing tasks that need to be done. Proficient in paying close attention to detail. Ability to maintain a safe and safety-conscious workplace. Ability to maintain a respectful workplace and model a positive and proactive attitude. Skilled in modeling and upholding the highest ethical standards. Proficient in delivering superior customer service.

Benefits

The University of Oregon is proud to offer a robust benefits package to eligible employees, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

Pay

$40.03 - $61.37 per hour FTE: 1.0

Schedule

This position works non-typical hours/shifts and is classified as Essential Personnel. During the six-month trial service period, employees will complete a structured training program that includes rotations on day shift, swing shift, and/or graveyard shift over weekdays and weekends to support training and operational needs. Day Shift: 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., weekdaysSwing Shift: 3:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m., including weekends and three weekdays. Graveyard Shift: 11:00 p.m.–7:00 a.m., including weekends and three weekdays. Upon successful completion of the trial service period, employees will be assigned to a shift based on operational needs and seniority within the team, in accordance with the SEIU Collective Bargaining Agreement. Candidates should be aware that the assigned long-term schedule will most likely be on either the swing shift or graveyard shift and will include weekend coverage.