Operator-In-Training

Operator-In-Training

A rare opportunity for on-the-job training to obtain a 1st Class Montana Boiler Operator license and join the team of Stationary Engineers responsible for operating the MSU Bozeman central heating plant. The Operator-In-Training position is responsible for gaining a complete understanding of maintenance and operation requirements of the MSU central heating plant, along with obtaining a 1st Class Boiler license to operate without supervision.

Under the supervision of the Heating Plant Foreman, provide safe and energy-efficient operation, maintenance and repair of central heating plant equipment to provide a reliable steam supply to meet campus demands and to generate a portion of campus electricity needs. Assist Stationary Engineers with testing and chemical treatment of water, operation of chemical feed equipment. Assist Stationary Engineers with instrument checks and maintenance of operation logs and recorders;

check and adjust boiler status and peripheral equipment (pumps, fans, economizers, pneumatic/electric/electronic control systems, deaerators, compressors, etc.). Assist Stationary Engineers with operation of emergency diesel generator and LPG fuel systems; monitoring of emergency fuel reserves; monitoring of natural gas consumption and initiating demand peak-shaving. Assist Stationary Engineers with monitoring and calibration of air quality compliance system; combustion efficiency tests; troubleshooting and repair of controls.

Assist Heat Maintenance Technicians as needed with the safe, reliable and efficient operation, maintenance, and repair of approximately 54 outlying heating plants across campus. Assist Heat Maintenance Technicians as needed to operate, maintain and repair medium pressure steam distribution systems in the utility tunnel system. Maintain and repair this system including, expansion joints, valves, steam traps, condensate skids, control devices up to, and including, main pressure regulating valves at building connection.

Assist Heat Maintenance Technicians as needed to read utility metering systems. The incumbent will attend and participate in the required training for the use of personal protective equipment and comply with the requirements for the use of employer-provided equipment.

Required Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills - 2nd Class or 3rd Class Montana Boiler Operator license or equivalent experience as confirmed by State of Montana Boiler Operator Program. Experience with operation and maintenance of steam boiler systems including chemical treatment programs, emergency diesel-powered generators and emergency fuel systems. Demonstrated working knowledge of work safety procedures, such as lockout/tagout and chemical safety.

Preferred Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
- Knowledge of the operation of steam turbine generator systems. Experience with electronic combustion controls, emissions monitoring, and air quality compliance. Experience working in a university or institutional environment. Broad knowledge of HVAC and boiler systems, associated controls and equipment.

The Successful Candidate Will
- Consistently exercise initiative and good judgment. Effectively and safely operate work-related equipment and tools. Work proficiently in the use of a computerized maintenance management system, e-mail, and other computer applications as assigned or required. Accurately follow written and oral instructions and procedures. Communicate effectively with employees and the public, both in person and over the phone Establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, co-workers, and the public.

Be a successful team player. Represent the department and MSU to others in a professional and courteous manner.

Training Period:
The training period for the Operator-In-Training is approximately 12 to 24 months in length or until the individual obtains a 1st Class Montana Boiler Operator license. During the training period, the work shift is expected to be:
The Operator-In-Training is expected to work on a normal work week schedule (typically 7:30AM to 4PM, Monday through Friday) under the…