Plant Operator

Central Plant Operator (T236882)

Position Summary: The Central Plant Operator is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and monitoring of chilled water systems and associated equipment across UAB’s Central Plants and outlying facilities. This role supports mission‑critical infrastructure by ensuring reliable delivery of chilled water to campus and hospital buildings.

• Operate and monitor reciprocating and centrifugal chillers, pumps, cooling towers, and related systems using computerized monitoring and energy‑management platforms.
• Ensure continuous and efficient chilled‑water delivery to all UAB campus and hospital buildings, providing 24/7/365 alarm monitoring and timely response to abnormal operating conditions.
• Inspect equipment and record operating data including temperatures, pressures, flow rates, chemical levels, refrigerants, and oil levels.
• Inspect, test, calibrate, and maintain control systems such as sensors, relays, control panels, and transmitters, diagnosing and resolving issues with electronic and computer‑based diagnostic tools.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance, modifications, replacements, and installations on chillers, pumps, motors, and supporting mechanical systems.
• Support water‑treatment operations by monitoring test results, adjusting chemical feed rates, and ensuring proper system conditions.
• Coordinate inspections and project activities, assisting Alabama state inspectors during annual pressure‑vessel surveys and supporting contractors on special projects.
• Maintain and review accurate records and technical documentation, interpret blueprints, drawings, and manufacturer specifications for HVAC and mechanical systems.
• Notify management of potential issues affecting chilled‑water distribution and plant operations.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support plant operations.

• Proficient in operating and maintaining chilled water systems, mechanical components, and control systems.
• Ability to interpret technical documents, schematics, and specifications.
• Knowledge of OSHA regulations and safe work practices.
• Experience with chemical handling, confined space entry, and emergency response procedures.
• Skilled in diagnosing system issues and implementing effective, timely solutions.
• Ability to interpret performance data and make informed operational adjustments.
• Proficient in using monitoring instruments, control systems, and diagnostic tools.
• Familiarity with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with team members, contractors, and inspectors.
• Capability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities.
• Demonstrates initiative and accountability in plant operations.
• Strong time‑management skills to meet operational deadlines.
• Ability to support special projects and respond effectively to urgent system needs.

• $19.80 - $26.00 (commensurate with experience & qualifications)
• Candidate without 6G certification must obtain it within the first 6 months of employment.
• OT Pay: 0–10 hours OT/Week expected; may exceed 10 hours/Week in extraordinary conditions.

• Shift
  
  Hours:
  
  Day and night shifts are either 6:00 AM–6:00 PM or 6:00 PM–6:00 AM.
• Position may require overtime, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, based on operational needs.
• Work schedules are subject to change to meet the needs of the department and University.

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of 3 years of HVAC experience required.
• Graduation from an accredited vocational school in HVAC strongly encouraged.

• Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) must meet University underwriting guidelines, including a valid U.S. driver’s license, minimum age of 21, and at least three years of driving experience.

• Lift and carry at least 50 lbs.
• Climb stairs, ladders, and scaffolding; work at heights above 30 feet.
• Bend, stoop, kneel, and walk significant distances between and within buildings on campus.
• Work in confined spaces and extreme temperature environments with varying humidity…