Power Plant Operator ​/ Mechanic

Working Title:

Power Plant Operator / Mechanic

State Role

Title:

Trades Technician III

Position Type:
Full-time Staff (Classified)

Position Status:
Full-Time

FLSA Status:
Non-Exempt:
Eligible for Overtime

College/Division:
Business Services

Department: 100264 - Power Plant E&G

Pay Band: 3

Pay Rate:
Pay Range

Specify Range or Amount: $44,000 - $50,500 / $21.15 - $24.28

Is this a JMU only position? No

Is this a grant-funded position? No

Is this a Conflict of Interest designated position? No

Beginning Review Date: 6/3/2026

About JMU:

At James Madison University (JMU), we're more than just a publicly funded institution - we're a vibrant, welcoming community located on a stunning campus where innovation, collaboration, and personal growth thrive. Our mission is to prepare students for a bright future, and we believe that starts with supporting the people who make it all possible: our employees.

Why Work at JMU?

We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your professional journey and personal wellbeing:

* Generous Leave:
Enjoy paid vacation, sick leave, parental leave, community service leave, and 19 paid holidays annually.

* Comprehensive Health Coverage:
Access high-quality health insurance options that fit your needs.

* Retirement Options:
Plan for your future with retirement benefits through the Virginia Retirement System.

* Employee Well-Being:
Our Balanced Dukes program promotes wellness and work-life integration through resources, events, and support.

* Tuition Waiver Program:
Advance your education with our tuition waiver program for undergraduate and graduate courses taken at JMU.

At JMU, we believe in Being the Change - and that starts with creating an environment where you can grow, contribute meaningfully, and feel supported every step of the way.

Discover what makes JMU a great place to work: bit.ly/JMUEmployment

General Information:

The Facilities Management Department at James Madison University is currently seeking a qualified applicant for the position of Power Plant Operator / Mechanic. Applicants must be available to work all shifts.

Duties and Responsibilities:

* Installs, modifies, overhauls, repairs, and maintains boilers and associated auxiliary equipment, steam distribution, and condensate return lines throughout the university.

* Prepares accurate, complete, and up-to-date records of actions taken and assures documentation is properly signed and coordinated in a timely manner.

* Troubleshoots problem areas and inspects for defective equipment and faulty components. Tests system operation and detects component malfunctions.

* Operates boilers and auxiliary equipment within designed parameters to ensure proper operation, efficiency, and safety of the plant.

* Utilizes safe practices and procedures following established safety rules and regulations.

* Trains and teaches other employees about proper procedures, repair techniques, and safety issues.

The employee in this role will be required to work a variety of shift schedules as a primary operator/maintenance mechanic within a centralized steam generation/chiller plant production facility. JMU will provide all training required to enhance knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform duties and responsibilities.

Qualifications:

Required Qualifications:

* Working knowledge of applicable safety rules, regulations, and procedures.

* Working skills include the use of hand and power tools, welding, and cutting equipment.

* Mechanical abilities including:

* maintaining and repairing power plant and related equipment;

* troubleshooting and diagnosing a variety of mechanical problems;

* ability to read and interpret gauges, recorders, and monitoring equipment.

* Ability to perform simple record-keeping tasks.

* Valid driver's license.

Additional Considerations:

* A current Facilities Operator Engineer certification (1st, 2nd, or 3rd class) or the willingness to obtain the certification.

* Competitive candidates should possess knowledge of all aspects of operation, repair, and maintenance procedures to power plant equipment: boilers, pumps, valves, chillers, cooling towers, controls, 3-phase electric motors, and steam distribution systems.

Additional Posting…