Operating Engineer

Under general supervision of the Lead Operating Engineer, the Operating Engineer operates, maintains, and repairs boilers, chillers, cogeneration equipment, and related central plant systems supporting San José State University’s heating, cooling, and utility infrastructure. Working independently and as part of a team, the incumbent monitors and optimizes building automation and energy-management systems, performs preventive and corrective maintenance, and responds to utility and equipment emergencies.

The position helps ensure safe, reliable, and energy-efficient operation of the campus central plant and utility systems serving a multi-site campus.

• Operate, monitor, maintain, and repair boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, compressors, engines, and related central plant equipment.
• Operate and maintain cogeneration, electrical generation, distribution, and associated fuel, water, and air systems.
• Use building automation and energy-management systems to adjust temperatures, air intake, schedules, and power plant output while optimizing energy efficiency.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance; inspect equipment, troubleshoot malfunctions, conduct major overhauls, and test repairs.
• Conduct chemical analyses and water-treatment activities for boiler and chiller systems; monitor fuel, water, emissions, and operating pressures.
• Respond to emergency calls and equipment failures; initiate safety protocols, perform emergency repairs, and switch plant systems to manual operation when necessary.
• Calibrate, adjust, and monitor boiler, turbine, generator, and related control and instrumentation systems.
• Maintain accurate logs, computerized maintenance records, time records, reports, as-built documentation, inventories, and materials records.
• Use and maintain shop tools, vehicles, lifts, welding equipment, and other certified equipment; maintain safe work areas and follow lockout/tagout practices.
• Provide work direction and training to skilled, semi-skilled, and unskilled staff; coordinate with other trades and ensure work conforms to safety codes and requirements.

• Working knowledge of boiler, chiller, cogeneration, HVAC, water treatment, electrical distribution, and central plant operating systems.
• Ability to operate, inspect, maintain, and repair complex mechanical, electrical, and control equipment using specialized trade tools and equipment.
• Ability to interpret operating data, instrumentation, energy and equipment efficiency calculations, and technical documentation.
• Ability to troubleshoot malfunctions, perform emergency repairs, and analyze and respond appropriately to emergency situations.
• Knowledge of safe work practices, lockout/tagout procedures, applicable building and safety codes, OSHA requirements, and use of personal protective equipment.
• Ability to perform chemical testing and water-treatment activities for boiler and chiller systems.
• Ability to maintain accurate manual and computerized records, prepare standard reports, and use computer systems for communication, documentation, and research.
• Ability to estimate cost, time, and materials; maintain inventory; and order parts and supplies.
• Ability to communicate effectively, follow oral and written instructions, build cooperative relationships, and provide work direction and training to assistants.
• Ability to prioritize multiple assignments, adapt to changing operational needs, operate required vehicles and equipment as certified, and maintain a valid California driver’s license.

• High school diploma, California GED, or equivalent to two years of experience in the operation, maintenance, and repairs of boilers and chillers, diesel, or gas reciprocating…