Boiler Plant Operator

Summary

This position is assigned to the Facility Management Service within the Western NY Healthcare System VA located at the Buffalo site. The Boiler Plant operator will work alongside the Utility Systems Operator supervisor and higher grade plant operators to perform the work operations of the boiler plant and all associated support equipment.

Applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement. Experience and training requirements are evaluated through a detailed description of relevant knowledge, skills, and abilities on the resume. Candidates are evaluated against OPM Federal Wage System Qualification Standards and screened for minimum qualification requirements. Successful applicants will be rated on: ability to perform the work without more than normal supervision, ability to interpret instructions, dexterity and safety knowledge, equipment assembly and repair, operation of specific equipment, technical practices, and measuring instruments.

Volunteer experience is also considered.

• The Boiler Plant Operator utilizes manual and automatic controls to operate multiple utility systems on an ongoing basis in accordance with state and federal regulations.
• Operate and maintain boiler plant operations when transitioning between fuel sources.
• Troubleshoot and adjust plant and mechanical systems to ensure proper functioning.
• Maintain repair equipment needed for routine maintenance.
• Read gauges and meters, verify steam pressure, and record maintenance data.
• Monitor and maintain fuel tank levels according to operating procedures.
• Conduct routine testing to determine proper pH balance, heavy metals, and hazardous chemicals.
• Generate steam efficiently and economically.
• Carry out operational repairs of limited to moderate complexity.
• Follow instructions provided by diagrams, drawings, and operating manuals.
• Receive fuel oil from tractor trailers and other suppliers while following all safety regulations.
• Make judgments and decisions based on supervisory guidance and protocol.
• Work from heights, confined spaces, tight spaces, ladders, and manlifts as required.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.
• Work Schedule:
  
  0600–1800; 1800–0600 four-week nights.
• Work 4 weeks day schedule (alternating schedule).
• Physical requirements include standing, stooping, bending, kneeling, climbing, lifting, and working in tiring and/or uncomfortable positions.
• May work from ladders and scaffolding.
• Operating equipment may involve strain from constant reaching, bending, turning, and movement of hands, arms, feet, legs, and vibration.
• Carry, lift, and handle parts and equipment weighing up to 90 pounds.
• Work inside and outside with exposure to all kinds of weather.
• Work area may be dirty, wet, dusty, greasy, with inadequate lighting, heat, or ventilation.
• Worker may be exposed to cuts, abrasions, eye irritation, skin irritation, respiratory hazards, and hazards from operating power tools and equipment.
• Discomfort may be encountered wearing protective clothing, gloves, or eye goggles, especially in confined areas such as crawl spaces and attics.