Chief Operating Engineer

Department
:
Facilities Mgmt EV
Salary/Grade
: 399/S7

Manages the safe and efficient operation of all Central Utility Plant systems and equipment including electrical, mechanical, plumbing, control systems, and limited associated utility distribution networks. Major equipment includes deep water intake and associated filtration systems, high pressure steam boilers and auxiliaries, steam- and electric-driven industrial chillers and auxiliaries, heat exchangers, chemical treatment, steam turbines, pumps, switch gear, generator, cooling pond, and control systems.

This position ensures operation and maintenance of the systems and equipment is performed and documented properly and in compliance with University policies and all applicable codes. Provides technical advice to senior management, administration, faculty, staff, and outside consultants relative to design, installation, operation, and repair of plant systems.

The role will support the department's mission and values by exhibiting the following: inclusiveness, respect, initiative, collaboration, innovation, and accountability. The incumbent will strive to provide excellent service when performing job responsibilities and will practice safe work procedures, and follow safety rules at all times.

• Plans, directs, and coordinates maintenance operations of plant equipment, systems, and ancillary infrastructure to meet the established annual budget and reliability (uninterrupted operation) expectations;
• Organizes work for planned and unscheduled maintenance tasks directed to plant staff and supporting shops for efficient and effective performance while ensuring that adequate staff is available to respond to irregularities and/or emergencies;
• Maintains good order and discipline among personnel consistent with University and departmental policies, initiating commendatory or corrective action as appropriate;
• Prepares written and oral reports on the condition, renewal needs, and routine maintenance of facilities, components, and related activities including post‑incident summaries and root‑cause analyses;
• Identifies and recommends employee safety, technical, soft‑skill training, and professional development opportunities as required to ensure optimum unit performance and development;
• Ensures compliance with applicable EPA, IEPA, State Fire Marshal, MWRD, OSHA requirements, and other jurisdictional codes;
• Interviews and recommends hiring or promotion of qualified staff, and performs annual employee performance reviews of subordinate personnel;
• Actively participates in energy procurement process including spot‑market and storage balancing;
• Participates in design and construction reviews for capital projects;
• Other duties as assigned;
• Must be available and capable of responding to irregularities during evenings and weekends ensuring 24‑hour, 7‑day per week coverage.

Performed other duties

• Minimum of two years of college in stationary, marine, mechanical engineering, or the equivalent combination of education and experience from which comparable skills can be acquired;
• Minimum five years supervisory experience in planning, directing, and coordinating the maintenance of industrial‑grade utility plant systems and equipment;
• City of Chicago Stationary Engineer's License (or obtain within 6 months of start date);
• Experience with, and thorough understanding of the engineering theories associated with, straight condensing and back pressure steam turbines, ancillary equipment, steam and refrigeration cycles;
• Knowledge of occupational hazards and recurring safety precautions;
• Mechanical aptitude and proven ability to maintain operating standards;
• Possess and maintain a valid driver's license recognized by the State of Illinois, provide own reliable transportation, and purchase a University parking permit (as required);
• Be a member of Operating Engineers Local 399, or join after a satisfactory completion of a 90‑day probationary period.

• Knowledge of electrical distribution and safe working practices;
• Excellent written and oral communication skills;
• Exceptional customer relationship skills and…