CENTRAL PLANT OPERATOR

The posting is intended to describe the general content and requirements of this position and is not intended to be an exhaustive statement of duties.  

To read, understand and interpret blueprints, drawings, floor plans, schedules and manufacturers operating and/or maintenance specifications as they relate to electrical mechanical, plumbing, HVAC, and special equipment, building structures and finishes. To maintain, operate, test, and monitor the operation and performance of reciprocating and centrifugal chillers, chiller components and supporting equipment such as chilled and evaporator water pumps, cooling towers, pneumatic and vacuum air systems, air handling equipment, life/safety systems, motors, etc., located in the Central Plants, and in facilities throughout the University using computer operated monitoring and energy management systems.

Essential Accountabilities:

• Performs duties and responsibilities of the Central Plant Repairer including performing maintenance, repair modification, replacement and installation on chiller and refrigerator units, electrical and mechanical components and supporting equipment located in the Central Plant buildings and in other outlying facilities on campus.
• Monitors the performance of chilled water systems and equipment, and records the operating status to include temperatures, pressures, cooling tower sump water levels, water leaks, chemicals, refrigerants and oil levels, flow rates, unusual conditions (vibrations, heat, noise, odors, etc.) and other operating data.
• Inspects, records, and makes required adjustments in chillers, chiller components and support equipment operation according to recorded data.
• Tests and makes needed adjustments in water treatment and chemical feed rates according to test results. Maintains water treatment chemical levels and replaces chemicals when required.
• Inspects, tests, calibrates, maintains, repairs, and installs monitoring instrumentation and control components including receivers-controllers, switches, relays, control panels, electronic and computer circuit boards, sensors, transmitters, pressure regulators, thermostats and other similar items.
• Performs repairs, modifications, replacements and installations of chillers, chiller components and supporting equipment.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Starting Pay Range:  $19.80 – $24.52 (Commensurate with experience & qualifications)

High School diploma or GED and 3 years of related experience required. Graduates from an accredited Vocational School in HVAC are encouraged to apply.  

Driving record should meet University underwriting guidelines to drive vehicle in performance of University business. Current underwriting guidelines include possession a valid driver's license, issued in the United States; at least 21 years of age; at least three years of driving experience; maintain an acceptable Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Ability to problem solve
• Basic mechanical aptitude
• Knowledge of trades mathematics
• Knowledge of trades communications

Possess the necessary physical requirements, with or without the aid of mechanical devices, to safely perform the duties and responsibilities of this position in a timely manner to include:

• Lifting and carrying a minimum of 50 pounds.
• Climbing stairs, ladders, and scaffolding, and working at heights above thirty (30) feet.
• Perform tasks requiring bending, stooping, kneeling, climbing, and walking significant distances between and within buildings on campus.
• Working within extreme temperature and humidity ranges with a variety of materials.
• Working in confined spaces

Work Schedule:  Must be able to work a flexible work schedule, including on-call (subject to change to meet the needs of the University ).

For full consideration, please be certain to showcase experience on application and resume, as it relates to the needs of the job announcement. Incomplete applications will not be processed.

For more information about UAB Facilities, please visit: http://www.uab.edu/facilities/ .

UAB is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and family-friendly environment in which all faculty and staff can excel and achieve work/life balance irrespective of race, national origin, age, genetic or family medical history, gender, faith, gender identity and expression or sexual orientation. UAB also encourages applications from veterans and individuals with disabilities.