Cogen Operator

Apply for the Cogen Operator position at UC Irvine
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Founded in 1965, UC Irvine is a member of the Association of American Universities and is ranked among the nation’s top 10 public universities by U.S. News & World Report. The campus has produced five Nobel laureates and is recognized for its academic achievement, premier research, and innovation. With 224 degree programs and over 36,000 students, it is a major employer in Orange County.

As a Cogen Operator, you will be responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of the Central Plant at UCI, ensuring reliable performance of all campus mechanical equipment and plant systems.

• Operate, maintain, and repair combustion turbine generators, steam turbine generators, heat recovery systems, AQMD emissions reduction systems, gas compressors, and related electrical equipment.
• Maintain equipment records through log sheets and logbooks, tracking time, materials and maintenance history.
• Provide emergency services and communicate effectively with campus staff and contractors.
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of preventive and corrective maintenance programs for the central plant and building equipment.
• Perform additional duties as assigned related to plant operations.

• Knowledge of rigging, lifting heavy equipment, and ability to align pumps, fans, and motors.
• Expertise in pipe fitting (both PVC and SS piping), pressure vessels, and replacement of bearings and seals.
• Experience with Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures.
• Skills to operate, troubleshoot, maintain, and repair all central plant equipment and systems.
• Familiarity with gas turbine engines, electrical systems, and industry maintenance practices.
• Proficiency with PC or computer systems for data access and process control.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for instruction delivery and documentation.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and adapt to changing work environments.
• Comprehensive knowledge of safety protocols, including confined entry, radiation safety, asbestos removal, and MSDS compliance.
• Valid unlimited Steam Operating Engineering License (City of Los Angeles) and Turbine Endorsement.
• EPA Certified Universal Technician License.
• Valid California driver’s license and participation in the DMV Pull program.
• Ability to work scheduled and unscheduled overtime, weekends, holidays, and off‑shift periods.
• Physical stamina for inclement weather and ability to climb a ladder ≈ 50 ft in confined spaces.
• Compliance with UCI’s smoking policy (non‑smoker).
• Must be able to provide proof of work authorization.

In addition to competitive salary, UCI offers medical insurance, sick and vacation time, retirement savings plans, and various discounts and perks.

Location:

Irvine, CA (or Fountain Valley, CA). Salary: $55.41 – $61.10 per hour.

University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or any other protected category.

For more information, contact Human Resources at (949) 824‑0500 or eec.