Apprentice, Chilled Water

Job Overview

OUC – The Reliable One is looking for a Chilled Water Apprentice to join our dynamic Chilled Water Operations team. The role involves operating and maintaining chiller plant equipment, assisting with preventive maintenance, monitoring system performance, and gaining troubleshooting skills through classroom and online training as well as fieldwork. This position is ideal for an early‑riser who loves hands‑on learning and is ready to grow into a key role in utility operations.

Train to assist in the operation, service, and maintenance of chilled water production equipment. Develop a strong scientific understanding of OUC’s chilled water systems with a focus on energy efficiency. Under direct supervision and training, assist in performing daily operational requirements as required by the current load conditions and preventive maintenance plan. Document all activities using a computerized maintenance management system and electronic logs.

• Participate in the chilled water apprentice training program including classroom study, online training and field observations.
• Learn to operate and maintain chiller plant equipment and facilities required to deliver efficient and reliable chilled water service.
• Learn to monitor chilled water plants through a computerized control system.
• Support service personnel in performing repairs and preventative maintenance to plant equipment and facilities.
• Learn to perform routine service work on systems to optimize operation.
• Learn to generate and maintain various reports and trend data.
• Understand and follow all workplace safety procedures.
• Perform daily plant logging and Lock‑Out‑Tag‑Out functions.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Working knowledge of all, but not limited to, the following:
  • Basic mathematics and computation, principles of mechanical concepts, reading comprehension and verbal communication.
  • Electrical and mechanical systems (Preferred).
  • Use of the following equipment (Preferred):
    • Mechanical hand tools and devices.
    • Computers and laptops.
    • Smartphones and apps.
    • Operating vehicles as appropriate for the function.
• Familiarity with the following:
  • Taking direction and demonstrating an eagerness to learn.
  • Equipment (hand tools, power tools and metering tools).
  • Following organizational and departmental policies, practices, and procedures.
  • Properly utilizing all personal protective equipment and following all safety rules and regulations.
• Ability to:
  • Complete the chilled water apprentice training program within the two‑year time frame and pass the four associated tests.
  • Learn the science of chilled water.
  • Apply analytical skills and a scientific mindset.
  • Quickly develop new skill sets.
  • Apply strong problem‑solving and critical‑thinking skills.
  • Analyze problems and discover root causes.
  • Interpret and follow technical manuals, blueprints, mechanical drawings, and schematics.
  • Perform arithmetic computations using whole numbers, fractions and decimals.
  • Use Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.) and standard office equipment.

• High school diploma or GED.
• Current enrollment in an apprenticeship, vocational, technical, or degree program or a certification in engineering or a related field of study (preferred).
• Valid driver’s license.
• Special training/certification to be completed within one year of hire:
  • EPA Universal Refrigerant 608 License.
• Special training/certification to be completed within two years of hire:
  • OUC Chilled Water Apprenticeship Training Program.

• Competitive compensation.
• Low‑cost medical, dental, and vision benefits; paid life insurance premiums with no probationary period.
• Hybrid Retirement Program: fully funded cash balance account, defined‑contribution plan with employer matching, and health reimbursement account.
• Generous paid vacation, holidays, and sick time.
• Paid parental leave.
• Educational assistance program including tuition reimbursement, paid memberships in professional associations, and paid conference and training opportunities.
• Wellness incentives and free access to all on‑site OUC fitness facilities.
• Family‑oriented recreational areas.
• Paid…