HVAC Utility Operator Boilers & Chillers

HVAC Utility Operator

Compensation Grade: T19 Salary Range: $35.01-$45.50

Opening Date:
March 20, 2026

As an HVAC Utility Operator, you will maintain the safe and efficient operation of industrial boilers, chillers, heat pumps, and other HVAC equipment, and respond to emergency and trouble calls during evening, night, and weekend shifts.

• Receives after‑business‑hours work requests (trouble calls); takes appropriate action(s) for HVAC‑related requests.
• Refs non‑HVAC requests to duty personnel in other disciplines.
• Records readings of meters and gauges on high‑pressure boilers, chillers, thermo‑ice‑storage machines, and control panels.
• Adjusts controls as needed.
• Operates and troubleshoots issues with industrial boilers and high‑temperature, high‑pressure generators and auxiliary equipment.
• Advises the HVAC Operator in Charge and HVAC Supervisor when major malfunctions occur or when safety controls are not operating properly.
• Advises the Interior Electrician of power‑related issues and alarms affecting equipment.
• Restarts boilers and chillers following power outages.
• Responds to miscellaneous alarm panels for electrical and water distribution systems.
• Makes rounds of various machine rooms to ensure that the HVAC equipment is operating properly and makes minor repairs or adjustments.
• Responds to trouble calls and troubleshoots malfunctioning HVAC equipment.
• Performs preventive maintenance on HVAC equipment.
• Applies the theories, principles, requirements, and standards of the trade and uses the full range of tools of the trade.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Four years of progressively responsible experience in operating, monitoring, or maintaining industrial central plant heating and cooling systems using high‑temperature‑high‑pressure hot water generators, industrial chillers, and chilled water storage tanks.
• Two of the four years of experience must be in safely servicing, troubleshooting, and operating all central plant auxiliary equipment, including air compressors, pumps, cooling towers, and heat exchanges.
• Knowledge of and ability to apply boiler and generator safety controls and troubleshooting.
• Ability to start and stop equipment using the Building Automated System (BAS).
• Ability to make decisions, take action, or direct the actions of others to maintain or restore service.
• Knowledge of the principles and operating characteristics of central plant heating and air‑conditioning systems and the skill to perform journey‑level work.
• Skill in using tools, technical manuals, schematics, blueprints, manufacturer’s materials, and other equipment and guides in journey‑level HVAC work.
• Ability to analyze data and information (including blueprints and schematics).
• Ability to work safely and knowledge of safety rules, regulations, and procedures.
• Ability to speak and write effectively.
• Skill in using a computer, computerized work order, and time and attendance system.

• Licensed as a Maryland Stationary Engineer – Grade 1.
• Licensed as a District of Columbia Class 3 – Steam and Hot Water Heating Boiler Engineer.
• Licensed as a Journey‑level HVAC Mechanic.
• Universal Certification (Section 608) to service HVAC/refrigeration equipment from the Environmental Protection Agency.

A high school diploma or a Certificate of General Educational Development (GED).

• A state driver’s license in good standing.
• Universal Certification (Section 608) to service HVAC/refrigeration equipment from the Environmental Protection Agency within 90 days of hire, promotion, or placement in the job.

• Must maintain certification.
• Operates vehicle airside and landside (requires AOA permit).
• Work is reviewed in progress and upon completion for quantity, quality, timeliness, teamwork, customer service, and other factors.
• Work requires moderate to heavy physical exertion (lifting objects up to 75 pounds).
• May bend, stoop, crouch, and work in a cramped position.
• May be subject to potential hazards common to the airport environment and HVAC systems, such as fumes, hazardous chemicals, noise from jet aircraft, high‑pressure boilers and HVAC units, burns or scalds, falls, and danger of moving equipment.
• Wears personal protective gear, as necessary.
• Is subject to hold‑over and recall on a 24‑hour basis for essential services and emergencies, such as snow removal.

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Well‑being resources.
• Health savings and flexible spending accounts.
• Pension and retirement plans.
• Ongoing training and development opportunities.

Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer.