Chiller Operator

Job Title: Chiller Operator I and II

Job Description

This role supports the safe and efficient operation of large centrifugal chillers (up to 2000 tons) and associated chiller plant equipment at a major university campus. The Chiller Operator II monitors and troubleshoots the chiller management system, maintains cooling tower water treatment systems, performs routine inspections, and ensures compliance with relevant mechanical, fire protection, and safety standards. The position plays a critical part in providing reliable chilled water service across numerous campus buildings while maintaining detailed maintenance records and clear communication with operations and maintenance teams.

Responsibilities

• Operate and support the safe and efficient performance of centrifugal chillers (up to 2000 tons) and related chiller plant equipment in accordance with American Society of Mechanical Engineers and National Fire Protection Association codes and standards.

• Monitor and help troubleshoot the chiller management system that controls chilled water equipment serving the campus, identifying issues and coordinating corrective actions.

• Support the monitoring, operation, and maintenance of cooling tower water treatment controllers and associated equipment to ensure proper system performance.

• Perform daily rounds to inspect chiller equipment, cooling towers, and associated mechanical systems, documenting findings and reporting abnormalities.

• Support the sampling and testing of system chemicals as necessary to maintain correct water chemistry for chilled water and cooling tower systems.

• Work in a safe manner at all times and follow OSHA standards and all other applicable federal and local regulations.

• Complete preventive maintenance orders and corrective work orders, accurately documenting work performed, parts used, and system status.

• Communicate clearly, both orally and in writing, with department personnel and leadership to support chiller plant operation, maintenance, and repair activities.

• Perform related responsibilities as assigned, including equipment validation, utilities support, boiler and steam system operation, chiller operation, and cooling tower operation.

• Collaborate with zone supervisors and other facilities staff to prioritize and complete work orders across multiple campus buildings.

• Respond to equipment alarms and operational issues in a timely manner to minimize downtime and maintain reliable chilled water service.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area within chiller plants and mechanical spaces.

Essential Skills

• Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent.

• At least two years of experience operating HVAC equipment.

• Preferably, graduation from an accredited HVAC technical school or equivalent hands‑on experience in HVAC systems.

• Approximately 5 years of experience in chiller operation within industrial HVAC maintenance environments.

• Working knowledge of centrifugal chillers, cooling towers, boilers, and steam systems.

• Ability to monitor and troubleshoot chiller management systems and related controls.

• Understanding of water treatment principles and chemical testing for cooling tower and chilled water systems.

• Familiarity with American Society of Mechanical Engineers and National Fire Protection Association codes and standards relevant to mechanical and fire safety.

• Strong commitment to working safely and following OSHA standards and other applicable regulations.

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and to bend, stoop, and twist as required to access equipment and mechanical spaces.

• Ability to work in indoor and outdoor environments, including exposure to extreme weather conditions and high noise areas.

• Clear oral and written communication skills to document work and coordinate with team members.

• Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to use hand tools, test equipment, and maintenance instruments.

• May require a valid Georgia driver's license and an insurable driving record, depending on assignment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Completion of an accredited HVAC technical school program or equivalent formal training.

• Experience working with large institutional or industrial facilities, such as university campuses or multi-building environments.

• Equipment validation and utilities operations in a facilities or plant setting.

• Comfort working at heights and in mechanical spaces within public buildings.

• Ability to manage multiple work orders and prioritize tasks in coordination with zone supervisors.

• Strong attention to detail in documenting maintenance activities and system performance.

• Reliability and initiative in identifying potential issues and recommending improvements to system operation.

• Willingness to support related mechanical and utilities functions beyond chiller operation when needed.

Why Work Here?

Employees join a stable, well-established institution that is deeply rooted in the local community and widely recognized as a top employer. Team members enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including paid holidays, vacation time that grows with tenure, tuition reimbursement, and multiple retirement and savings plan options. There is a strong emphasis on long‑term career opportunities, with a genuine desire to convert contract roles to permanent positions and support professional development over time. Health benefits are competitively priced for both individuals and families, and employees have access to generous 403(b) retirement matching and other financial wellness programs, creating a supportive environment focused on work‑life balance and long‑term security.

Work Environment

This position is based in facilities operations at a large college university campus, supporting nearly 200 buildings organized into seven zones. Each zone includes approximately 2040 buildings and is overseen by a zone supervisor who manages work orders and coordinates maintenance activities. Work takes place in both indoor and outdoor settings, including mechanical rooms, chiller plants, cooling tower areas, and public campus buildings, with occasional work at heights and in high‑noise environments. The role involves exposure to varying weather conditions and requires regular physical activity, such as lifting up to 50 pounds and bending, stooping, and twisting to access equipment. The schedule is a day shift, Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., providing consistent hours in a structured facilities team environment.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Atlanta, GA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $35.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your jobclassification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may besubject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefitsavailable for this temporary role may include the following:

Medical, dental & visionCritical Illness, Accident, and Hospital401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions availableLife Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)Short and long-term disabilityHealth Spending Account (HSA)Transportation benefitsEmployee Assistance ProgramTime Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Atlanta, GA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 12, 2026.

Workplace Type

This is a fully remote position.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.