Plant Operator

Overview

Job No: 538524

Work Type: Full Time

Location: Main Campus (Gainesville, FL)

Categories: Facilities Operations/Skilled Trades, Veteran's Preference Eligible

Department:  - FS-UTILITIES-CHILLED WATER

Classification

Title:

Plant Operator

Classification

Minimum Requirements:

High school diploma or equivalent and one year of appropriate experience. Appropriate vocational/technical training may substitute at an equivalent rate for the required experience.

Job Description: Maintains proper cooling and heating temperatures, pressures, and flow rates in the chilled water and steam district energy systems to support the proper operation of building systems. Regulates the operation of plant equipment inclusive of chillers, fans, pumps, motors, VFDs, piping leaks as a function of make-up water, deaerators, boilers, boiler feed water, air compressors and generators. Adheres to procedures for lock-out/tagout and works with maintenance mechanics to reset equipment for planned and emergency outages.

Communicates with supervisors of operations and maintenance when plant operations are not in alignment with service quality standards.

Conducts periodic inspections to ensure that all equipment and controls are operating properly and are in good condition. Takes and compiles routine plant readings and maintains production and consumption records. Receives, records and communicates information relevant to previous and following shifts. Reports defects, and recommends improvements, alterations and repairs to Operations Supervisor. Clearly notes any problem situations in plant log.

Responds to problems and initiates emergency communication protocols as appropriate. Complies with safety procedures. Identifies the nature of the problem and takes appropriate action to ensure safety and minimize property or equipment damage and minimize the disruption to customers. Responds to problems with other utility systems on campus, including distributed steam and chilled water, potable water, reclaimed water and sanitary and electrical services.

Maintains communication during assigned shifts through radio or cell phone communications with on-duty and emergency personnel at all times.

Maintains the plant in sanitary and orderly condition. Coordinates plant operation with other utility or energy companies or departments as needed. Assists Operation Supervisor and Plant Superintendent as required.

Performs related duties as assigned.

Certifications and

Skills:

EPA Universal Refrigerant Certification (Obtain within 6 months of hire date). Skill in using hand tools. Ability to operate or coordinate work assignments and to communicate effectively. Ability to represent the Utilities and Energy Department in a courteous and professional manner to other UF entities. Ability to take direction and complete tasks with minimal oversight. Must have the ability to work on-call during off-shift hours and weekends.

Normal

Work Schedule:

40 hours a week in 10-hour shifts as normal schedule. 6:00 AM- 4:00 PM W-SA. May need to fill understaffed positions on occasion. Work on call or relief shifts weekend or evenings as scheduled. Position considered as Essential Personnel as defined by UF Policy.

Expected Salary: $19.00 Hourly based on experience.

Required Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent and one year of appropriate experience. Appropriate vocational/technical training may substitute at an equivalent rate for the required experience.

Preferred: 2+ years of experience in monitoring and troubleshooting;
Knowledge of the procedure and methods used in the operation and maintenance of boilers and chilled water plants with proven experience in support of plant operations;
Utility Plants Familiarity with a computerized maintenance management system;
Boiler operator certification;
Ability to use MS Office at an intermediate level.

In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter and resume.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.

Health Assessment

Required:

Yes

Applications Close: 11 February 2026

To apply: visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./538524

The University of Florida is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Hiring is contingent on eligibility to work in the U.S. The University of Florida is a public institution and is subject to all requirements under Florida Sunshine and Public Record laws. If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call  or the Florida Relay System at  (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF.

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