Critical Utilities Specialist; Boiler Operator

Position: Critical Utilities Specialist (Boiler Operator)
About Ardena

Ardena is a global Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) and Contract Research Organization (CRO) specializing in precision medicine development. Ardena supports pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies in bringing innovative, complex molecules from discovery to market.

The Ardena Group operates from five sites across Europe and the United States, employing more than 750 professionals. Ardena European sites are located in Oss and Assen (the Netherlands), Ghent (Belgium), and Pamplona (Spain). Ardena US facility is based in Somerset, New Jersey.

For the Ardena Business Unit based in Somerset (US), we are looking for a Critical Utilities Specialist (Boiler Operator).

Ardena provides integrated services spanning drug substance development, drug product formulation, GMP manufacturing, bioanalytical services, clinical logistics, fill and finish, and CMC regulatory support.

What You Will Work On

Your Role

The Critical Utilities Specialist is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of critical utility systems, including steam boilers, refrigeration, HVAC, and facility infrastructure. This role ensures system reliability and compliance with regulatory and safety standards.

Working under the direction of the Chief Engineer, this position requires proficiency in mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and controls/building automation systems. The role includes on-call responsibilities to support 24/7 facility operations. Blue seal certification/licensing is preferred.

Your Key Responsibilities

Utility System Operations and Maintenance

• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot steam boilers, chillers, refrigeration systems, HVAC, compressed air, purified water, and other critical utilities.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance to ensure optimal system performance and regulatory compliance.
• Conduct mechanical, electrical, and control system troubleshooting to minimize downtime and maintain efficiency.
• Monitor building automation and energy management systems to optimize performance.
• Support energy conservation and sustainability initiatives to improve operational efficiency.
• Respond rapidly to emergency situations and system failures.

Compliance and Documentation

• Maintain accurate records in the CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System).
• Ensure compliance with GMP, FDA, OSHA, EPA, and New Jersey state regulations.
• Assist in audits and inspections by maintaining and presenting required documentation.
• Develop and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and work instructions.

Technical Expertise and Collaboration

• Provide technical support and training to technicians.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on process improvements and new technology evaluations.
• Assist in the execution of preventive and predictive maintenance programs.

Safety and Continuous Improvement

• Follow and enforce safety protocols, including PPE and hazardous material handling requirements.
• Identify and implement efficiency improvements in maintenance and operational practices.
• Support Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives related to energy and resource management.
• Serve as a support contact for shift-related utility issues in the absence of the Lead Technician.

Additional Responsibilities

• Comply with all Health, Safety, and Environmental responsibilities for the position.
• Adhere to company standards for data integrity and regulatory compliance.
• Participate in team projects and contribute to the organization's strategic objectives.
• Perform other tasks as assigned.

Your Profile

Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate's degree or technical certification in Engineering or Facilities Management preferred.
• Must possess a valid New Jersey Blue Seal Boiler License (minimum).
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience in industrial utilities, preferably in a pharmaceutical or regulated manufacturing environment.
• Strong working knowledge of steam, refrigeration, HVAC, and water treatment systems.
• Proficiency in mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and control systems.
• Experience with CMMS software and maintenance documentation.
• Experience with GMP compliance and practices is required.

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills for diagnosing complex mechanical and electrical issues.
• Ability to read and interpret technical schematics, blueprints, and P&IDs.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills to work with cross-functional teams.
• Ability to work a rotating schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays as required.
• Alignment with Ardena's CARE values:
  Communicative, Accountable, Reliable, and Excellent

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in industrial and facility environments.
• Must be able to lift and move equipment up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to stand, walk, and perform hands-on work for extended periods.

Work Environment and Safety Conditions

• Work is performed in regulated production and facility settings with exposure to heat, chemicals, moving machinery, and…