Utility Plant Operator

Utility and Energy Services at CU Boulder encourages applications for a Utility Plant Operator! This role operates District Energy Plant and Satellite Plant systems for heating, cooling, and power generation at an advanced level; oversees and operates the Utility Distribution (DIST) Systems; monitors equipment and maintains records of equipment operational status for turnover reports to Lead Operator; and trains lower-level Utility Plant Operator positions and new employees.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Utility and Energy Services is responsible for the design, operation, maintenance, and repair of the campus's energy generation and distribution infrastructure for steam (heating), chilled water (cooling), and electricity. We provide the campus community with reliable utility services in an efficient and environmentally responsible manner and offer measurement, line locating, performance engineering, regulatory and data management services.

Operate Heating, Cooling, and Power Generation Equipment

• Operate and configure plant equipment to maintain utilities supplied to campus in a safe, reliable and efficient manner by following procedures, policies and accepted engineering practices and being knowledgeable on plant equipment and operating methods. Plan, problem-solve, and take corrective actions for off-normal conditions that could jeopardize equipment, supplied utilities, or the health and safety of personnel or campus assets. District Energy and Satellite Plant Systems to operate include:
  Combined Heat & Power (CHP) system (aka cogeneration system) consisting of dual fuel combustion gas turbine generators (CTG), Heat Recovery Steam Generators (HRSG), Steam Turbine Generator (STG), dual fuel boilers, electric driven centrifugal chillers, cooling towers, and related auxiliary equipment.

Monitor and Make Adjustments to Plant Equipment and Processes

• Conduct routine inspections and log equipment parameters at multiple sites, ensuring plant systems are being operated properly. Perform chemical analysis (including adding chemicals to water used in the heating, cooling, and power generation systems) and make adjustments as necessary. Follow applicable permits, contractual agreements, operating procedures, policies, and safety practices.
• Oversee operation of DIST systems including load management of university 15kV Micro Grid, Chilled Water (CHW) loop, and Steam Distribution system.
• Monitor and assist in observation of building metered demands and consumption.
• May need to operate a university vehicle to complete duties.

Maintain and Repair Equipment

• Perform troubleshooting and initial Root Cause Analysis (RCA) of equipment failures and operational upsets. Complete minor repairs and preventative maintenance.

Plant Safety and Security

• Administer and control lock-outs/tag-outs (LOTO) of equipment with maintenance personnel and Contractors.
• Control physical access in and around the plant. Monitor process and supervisory control network activity. Make proper notifications when plant physical or control network security is compromised.
• Attend safety trainings and meetings as scheduled

Maintain Plant Cleanliness

• Ensure plant and equipment is free of dirt, clutter and debris. Paint plant components where required.

• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
• This is shift work and requires working evenings, weekends, holidays, and high-volume overtime schedules and is subject to the on-call policy. This is an essential services position, and is required to respond after hours during emergencies and report to work for regular assigned shift during emergency campus closures.
• The incumbent can enhance their number of days off by working 12-hour shifts.
• These positions typically work 14-16 days or nights per month.
• This position is eligible for our Facilities Management Employee Referral Program.

• The salary rate for this role is $73,000 annually. Candidates are eligible to receive up to two 5% increases in base pay once required system-specific certifications are completed. There is a 14% night shift differential, a 20%…