Energy Plant Operator

Please see Special Instructions for more details.

Positions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors.

Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.

We are only accepting applications submitted by September 7, 2026.

The University of South Carolina offers a valuable benefits package including but not limited to:

• Health and Life Insurance
• Retirement Programs
• Paid Tuition
• Dependent Scholarships
• Annual Leave
• Sick Leave
• 13 Paid Holidays (including an extended December holiday)
• Paid Parental Leave
• Professional Development Opportunities

• Rotating week of days/nights/days/nights with a break in between each.
• Sunday through Tues 7a-7p/7a-7p
• Wednesday and Thurs 7a-3p/3p-11p/11p-7a

Location of Vacancy:
Part/Full Time. Full Time. Hours per Week: 40.

G07 USC Market Range MRD - $44,296 $ 54,263 $ 64,229. Anticipated Hiring Range $44,296 - $54,263.

Job Open Date: 07/28/2026. Job Close Date: 09/07/2026.

Campus:
Columbia. Work County:
Richland. College/Division:
Division of Administration and Finance Department: DAF Facilities Energy Plant.

Job Level: T1 - Technical Support Business Title (Internal Title) Energy Plant Operator.

• Conducts routine inspections of all energy production areas and equipment by adhering to a planned maintenance schedule for all systems, physically observing systems for proper operation
• Communicating problems to appropriate personnel and supervision
• Making recommendations regarding the planned maintenance program to ensure proper operation and maintenance
• Provide for, as well as assist in, corrective action prior to necessary emergency action.

• Performs corrective and preventative maintenance on energy distribution equipment in multiple energy plants including boilers, de-aerator systems, water chillers , cooling towers, pumps, motors, piping, and other related equipment by receiving work orders;
• Performing mechanical repairs;
• Operating tools and equipment;
• Communicating with supervisory personnel and coworkers;
• Ensuring that all work performed follows the departmental and OSHA safety guidelines, policies, and regulations;
• Ensuring all assigned systems are in safe working order and compliance with national and local codes and regulations;
• Exhibiting professionalism in conduct, appearance, and work practices; and developing and maintaining strong customer service practices.

• Assists in the chemical water treatment process for boilers, cooling towers, chillers and other associated distribution piping and equipment systems by performing daily operational tests;
• Taking corrective action
• Recording test results and corrective actions;
• Reporting to management when deficiencies are noted

• Stays current with best practices related to plant operations and associated technologies by regularly observing plant processes, reviewing system diagrams and studying training manuals.
• Actively participates in required training sessions to enhance knowledge and remain up to date with evolving operational standards and equipment.
• Participates in periodic spot checks designed to assess understanding and proficiency in the operation of chiller, boiler, hydronic systems and all related components including pump, valve, and motor operations, ensuring consistent performance and adherence to safety and efficiency standards.
• Actively participates in training and coaching other plant personnel.

• Maintains work areas and tools by adhering to appropriate schedules, performing repairs as needed and ensuring all tasks meet safety and cleanliness standards.
• Informing the appropriate personnel to request in-house equipment repairs, as well as inspecting, cleaning, and painting work spaces and equipment.
• Enters and manages work orders, and maintains…