Are you looking to power the future of a world-class campus? We are seeking a skilled Utility Plant Operator to join our team. In this role, you won’t just be maintaining equipment—you’ll be the backbone of our university’s infrastructure, ensuring the lights stay on and the campus stays comfortable. As a Utility Plant Operator, you will be responsible for the reliable operation of our central utility systems. From managing our advanced Cates Cogeneration Facility to overseeing massive chilled water systems, your expertise will directly impact thousands of students, faculty, and researchers every day. Key responsibilities and duties include, but are not limited to: Control, monitor, and operate steam boilers, chillers, cogeneration equipment, and auxiliary systems to provide continuous utility services. Maintain safe and efficient operation of steam, hot water, and chilled water production systems. Perform real-time monitoring of plant systems, make operational adjustments, and ensure compliance with emissions, safety, and regulatory requirements. Inspect, operate, and perform routine maintenance on plant equipment, including fuel gas compressors, pumps, air filters, cooling towers, and related systems. Support the operation of the Cates Cogeneration Facility to produce electricity and steam for campus use. Identify and respond to equipment or system issues, escalating concerns to the shift supervisor as appropriate. Why Join Us? This is more than a maintenance job; it’s an opportunity to work with cutting-edge energy technology in a stable, supportive environment. Ready to power our campus? Apply today! Other Responsibilities Other tasks and responsibilities may be assigned based on the needs of the organization and evolving priorities. Qualifications Minimum Experience/ Education High school diploma or equivalency and one year of related experience; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Maintains required certification(s). Preferred Qualifications Experience with combustion gas turbines/cogeneration. Experience in steam production (natural gas/fuel oil fire tube and water tube boilers up to 100 kpph). Experience in chilled water production (electric driven/turbine driven up to 2000 tons). Experience in a central plant environment. Required License or Certification A valid driver’s license is required. North Carolina Drivers’ License required within 60 days of hire and must be maintained. Valid NC Driver's License required Yes Commercial Driver's License Required? No Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions Job Open Date 05/08/2026 Earliest Close Date---- (Positions will be posted until 5:00 PM ET on this date. Positions remaining posted after this date are still accepting applications but may close at any time.) 05/14/2026 Notice to Applicants Please make sure that the work history you list on your application is identical to the work history listed on your resume. The application must be filled out completely, do not use the phrase “see resume”. Special Instructions Please include as attachments a resume/ CV and contact information for at least 3 professional references. Position Details Position Number 00102781 Position Type SHRA Position Classification Band Title Utilities Plant Operator Position Classification Band Level Advanced Position Classification Salary Range $ 38,064 - $ 82,128 Salary Grade Equivalency NC 10 Alternate Option If no applicants apply who meet the required competency level and training & experience requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations. Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week) 1.00 Appointment 12 Month Recurring Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather Mandatory - Adverse Weather Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events Mandatory - Utilities/ Infrastructure Failure Time Limited Position No Time-Limited Appointment Length (if applicable) Department Id 445050 - Utilities and Engineering EEO