GMW - Boiler Operator Apprenticeship

Position Overview

The University of Kansas is searching for individuals with general maintenance skills that are interested in career growth opportunities in the area of steam, pipe fitting, and basic plumbing. The selected incumbent will enter a six‑month apprenticeship to learn boiler operations and equipment. Successful completion of the apprenticeship results in a promotion to Boiler Operator with a rate increase.

Monday through Friday 8 AM to 4:30 PM. Upon transition to Boiler Operator schedule will become four days on, three days off. Overtime and after‑hours call‑back as needed.

• Saturday 8 PM – Sunday 8 AM
• Sunday 8 PM – Monday 8 AM
• Monday 8 PM – Tuesday 4 AM
• Tuesday 8 PM – Wednesday 4 AM

• Up to 176 hours of paid vacation per year
• 96 hours of sick leave earned per year
• Nine paid holidays plus one discretionary day
• Retirement program
• Medical and dental insurance
• Life and disability insurance
• Other benefit plan options
• State of Kansas discounts offered by various vendors
• Educational and professional development opportunities

Up to 12 credit hours per year for employees and employee dependent tuition assistance scholarship (EDTAS) award opportunities. Details are available at (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

Under supervision, learn all aspects of operating boilers, pumps, air compressors, de‑aerators, water softeners, valves, regulators, and pneumatic controls to maintain proper steam pressure, temperature, and water level. Participate in a training program to learn procedures for checking safety alarms, pumps, valves, and piping systems and accurately read gauges, thermometers, and charts to record and document information. Assist with the inspection of boilers, pumps, valves, piping systems and associated auxiliary equipment for proper operation and to determine repair or preventive maintenance scheduling.

Assist with the water testing process as needed. Record daily operations of boilers, pumps, deaerators, and air compressors and communicate information digitally.

Assist and gain knowledge with fabrication, assembly, installation and maintenance of piping systems, valves and equipment for boilers, pumps, steam, condensate, feed‑water, cooling water, pneumatics, and lubricating systems in accordance with National Plumbing, ASTM, and ASME codes. Under supervision, learn the blueprints, technical manuals, schematics, and drawings needed to install and/or repair systems using appropriate pipe cutters, threaders, and fittings.

Assist in cleaning, replacement, installation, lubrication, and repacking of filters, pipes, pumps, valves, heat exchangers, and auxiliary equipment to maintain power plant operating condition. Assist staff in overhauling pumps on steam generating and heating equipment by replacing defective bearings, seals, packing, shafts, and other pump parts. Perform routine cleanliness tasks to keep the power plant and equipment in compliance with national fire and safety codes.

Assist as needed to correct problems in the case of water breaks, steam distribution irregularity or other problems. Assist with snow removal and surface treatment.

Performed as assigned.

• Lift and carry up to 20 pounds constantly and up to 50 pounds occasionally with or without accommodation.
• Reach, grasp, lift, carry, and place moderately heavy loads frequently and heavy loads occasionally with or without accommodation.
• Ascend/descend multi‑level stairs and vertical ladders in performance of routine duties.
• Work under a variety of temperature and weather extremes, both inside and outdoors.
• Work in environments with constant loud noise.
• Work in confined spaces.
• Work overtime as needed.
• Respond to after‑hours emergencies as needed.
• Report to work during declared periods of inclement weather.

• High school diploma or completion of GED equivalency.
• Must have a valid driver’s license at time of hire and maintain that license throughout employment.

• Current contact information, including email and phone number
• Previous work experience, including dates of employment
• Name and contact information for three references

Robert Mills, r957m277

$18.00 USD/hr