Energy Plant Operator

Job Title: Energy Plant Operator Under general supervision in operationally centralized energy plants, performs duties in the operation and maintenance of the University of South Carolina’s energy plants. Qualifications Requires job–related accreditation from a technical school or an applicable skilled trades program and 2 or more years of job‑related experience, which may be substituted by an equivalent combination of job‑related certification, training, education, and/or experience. Driver’s License required. Preferred: Ability to operate and perform maintenance work in various energy facilities; general knowledge of trades and crafts; oral and written communication skills; ability to read and interpret instruction manuals and drawings; initiative and proactivity in performing duties. Responsibilities Percentage of Time: 30% Performs corrective and preventative maintenance on energy distribution equipment in multiple energy plants including boilers, de‑aerator systems, water chillers up to 3000 tons, cooling towers, pumps, motors, piping, and other related equipment by receiving work orders. Performs mechanical repairs. Operates tools and equipment. Communicates with supervisory personnel and coworkers. Ensures that all work performed follows departmental and OSHA safety guidelines, policies, and regulations. Ensures all assigned systems are in safe working order and compliant with national and local codes and regulations. Exhibits professionalism in conduct, appearance, and work practices and develops and maintains strong customer‑service practices. Percentage of Time: 25% Assists in the chemical water treatment process for boilers, cooling towers, chillers and other associated distribution piping and equipment systems by performing daily operational tests. Takes corrective action. Records test results and corrective actions. Reports to management when deficiencies are noted. Percentage of Time: 10% Stays current with best practices related to plant operations and associated technologies by regularly observing plant processes, reviewing system diagrams and studying training manuals. Actively participates in required training sessions to enhance knowledge and remain up to date with evolving operational standards and equipment. Participates in periodic spot checks designed to assess understanding and proficiency in the operation of chiller, boiler, hydronic systems and all related components including pump, valve, and motor operations, ensuring consistent performance and adherence to safety and efficiency standards. Percentage of Time: 10% Maintains work areas and tools by adhering to appropriate schedules, performing repairs as needed and ensuring all tasks meet safety and cleanliness standards. Informs the appropriate personnel to request in‑house equipment repairs, as well as inspecting, cleaning, and painting workspaces and equipment. Enters and manages work orders, and maintains accurate records by following up on both active and closed spot purchases. Tracks and addresses issues related to inoperative or malfunctioning equipment to ensure continued operational efficiency. Percentage of Time: 10% Performs administrative tasks including maintaining and completing accurate daily time sheets and records. Assists with the facilities inventory control by requesting, receiving and monitoring maintenance supplies and tools from consolidated supplies and outside vendors following established procurement policies and procedures. Attends meetings and training events related to customer service, safety and continuous improvement. Percentage of Time: 10% Performs other related duties as required to include filling in for absent personnel on other shifts. Benefits Health and Life Insurance Retirement Programs Paid Tuition Dependent Scholarships Annual Leave Sick Leave 13 Paid Holidays (including an extended December holiday) Paid Parental Leave Professional Development Opportunities The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDS status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations. #J-18808-Ljbffr University of South Carolina