Power Plant Operator

Utility Plant Specialist 2

Department: Facilities & Campus Operations
Classification: Utility Plant Specialist 2
Job Category: Classified Staff
Job Type: Full-Time
Work Schedule: Full-time (1.0 FTE, 40 hrs/wk)
Location: Fairfax, VA
Workplace Type: On-Site Required
Sponsorship Eligibility: Not eligible for visa sponsorship
Pay Band: 03
Salary: Salary commensurate with education and experience ($57,000)
Criminal Background Check: Yes
Motor Vehicle Records Check: Yes

George Mason University Facilities ensures a quality physical environment supporting the mission of the university. The Facilities & Campus Operations department is committed to providing a safe, functional, and clean community experience at the university.

Under the supervision of the Power Plant Shift Supervisor, the Utility Plant Specialist 2 oversees the operation of the Central Heating & Cooling Plant (CHCP) and all satellite plants during the designated shift to ensure smooth operation and provide a service to the George Mason University community.

• Paid annual leave, paid holidays, paid sick leave, and a two‑week winter break (please note—the break employees often receive during the holiday season is not regularly guaranteed and is subject to annual approval).
• Free tuition up to 12 credit hours during the academic year and professional development.
• Commuter Choice Transit Benefit.
• Virginia Retirement System Hybrid Plan.
• Patriot Perks discounts to restaurants, events, and more.
• Health/dental/vision benefits.
• Tuition‑dependent benefit (restrictions apply).

• Day-to-Day Plant Operations
  • Assists Plant Operators II & III and the Shift Supervisor on duty with the operation of boilers and/or high temperature hot water generators using natural gas or #2 diesel as a fuel.
  • Assists Plant Operators II & III and the Shift Supervisor in the operation of the central refrigeration system, including condenser and chilled water system, cooling tower operation, and various pumping systems.
  • Assists Plant Operators II & III and the Shift Supervisor in the operation of various systems such as fuel systems, feedwater, control systems, pumping and expansion tank systems, troubleshooting and correcting problems with boilers, chillers, and other heat/cool related equipment.
• Daily Plant Monitoring and Preventive Maintenance
  • Monitors gauges and meters in boilers and other related equipment during assigned shifts and initiates immediate action in case of malfunctions or breakdowns.
  • Adheres to departmental procedures regarding safety standards.
  • Checks and records various temperatures, pressures, water levels, water, and air flows.
  • Performs preventive maintenance and fulfills all the needs of the equipment to ensure peak performance.
  • Reads and records various in‑plant meters and makes calculations necessary for plant efficiency reports.
  • Assists in the collection of various operating and maintenance records.
  • Assists in the operation of various chemical feed systems, including various chemical tests.
  • Cleans all CHCP boilers, chiller tubes, and cooling towers once yearly to ensure peak performance.
• Chemical Treatment
  • Assists Plant Operators II & III in the operation of various chemical feed systems, including making various chemical tests in different locations.
  • Performs miscellaneous duties such as cleaning and painting the equipment and mechanical essential areas.
  • Picks up materials from suppliers when requested. Inspects areas and reports to the supervisor.
  • Maintains paperwork and electronic communications, including work orders and recording time.
  • Orders and includes materials on work orders in an expedient manner.
  • Follows established university and departmental policies and procedures.
  • Follows established safety procedures and reports accidents and problems to the supervisor promptly.
  • Performs assigned progressive on‑the‑job training tasks to develop skills in the Power Plant Trade.
• Other Related Duties as Assigned
  • Related tasks assigned by the supervisor and department head.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned, including snow removal during inclement weather and essential events.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Working knowledge of the…