Cogeneration Plant Operator (Operating Engineer)

Cogeneration Plant Operator (Operating Engineer) Job no: 558931 Work type: Staff Location: San Diego Position Summary San Diego State University is seeking a skilled Cogeneration Plant Operator to support the operation, maintenance, and reliability of the campus central plant and utility systems. This role ensures safe, efficient, and continuous delivery of essential services through equipment operation, maintenance, and system monitoring. Key Responsibilities Operate, monitor, and maintain central plant equipment such as boilers, turbines, compressors, cooling towers, and utility distribution systems. Monitor control systems and plant performance to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operations. Perform preventive and corrective maintenance and respond to equipment issues and emergencies. Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and operational standards. Troubleshoot and repair plant and HVAC systems to maintain optimal performance. Respond to service requests and utility disruptions affecting campus operations. Perform preventive maintenance to reduce downtime and extend equipment life. Maintain records, reports, inventories, and work documentation. Coordinate materials, equipment, and support activities with other trades and departments. Why Join Us? Support critical infrastructure that serves the entire campus. Work with advanced utility and energy management systems. Contribute to safe, reliable, and efficient campus operations. Be part of a collaborative Facilities Services team. Position Information Full-time, benefits eligible, permanent/probationary position. Position is non-exempt under FLSA and eligible for overtime compensation. Working hours are 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.; watch rotation alternates every four months. Training period hours 6:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Location: San Diego State University campus. Education and Experience Equivalent to two years of hands‑on experience in the operation, maintenance, and repair of boiler and chiller systems, cogeneration systems, and/or related mechanical equipment. A certificate or vocational training may substitute for hands‑on experience. Key Qualifications Ability to operate boilers and chillers safely and efficiently. Monitor energy consumption and adjust equipment and system features. Comprehensive knowledge of cogeneration plant equipment and systems, including gas and steam turbines, HRSGs, boilers, cooling towers, water treatment, and auxiliary systems. Working knowledge of system water testing and treatment procedures.Ability to analyze, respond appropriately to emergency situations, and recognize, secure, and report unsafe conditions immediately. Knowledge of safe working techniques and safety equipment. Awareness of typical workplace hazards including biohazards, chemicals, asbestos/lead-containing materials. Capacity to lift more than 40 pounds with or without assistance. Preferred: Five years of experience in the operation, maintenance, and repair of boiler, chiller, and cogeneration systems. Preferred: Turbine Endorsement, City of Los Angeles. Licenses/Certifications Required Valid California Driver’s License or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire. Compensation and Benefits San Diego State University offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well‑being and professional growth. Compensation Initial step placement is not expected to exceed Step 10 ($6,400 /month). Salary step placement for internal applicants will follow the Teamsters Collective Bargaining Agreement. CSU Classification Salary Range: $5,355–$7,801 per month (Step 1–20). Future increases, including step advancements, are subject to contract negotiations. Full Benefits Package Includes Generous Time Off: 15 paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave. Retirement: CalPERS pension plan with retiree healthcare, and reciprocal agreements with other California public retirement systems. Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision options at low or no cost. Education Support: CSU tuition fee waiver for employees and eligible dependents. Optional Offerings: FlexCash, life and disability insurance, legal and pet plans. Campus & Community: Access to the library, campus events, employee groups, and volunteer and social activities. Equal Opportunity and Excellence in Education and Employment All university programs and activities are open and available to all regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, San Diego State University (SDSU) provides equal opportunity in education and employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on protected characteristics. SDSU complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX, the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, California’s Proposition 209, and other applicable state and federal anti‑discrimination laws. Supplemental Information Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full‑time basis and must disclose any final administrative or judicial decision determining that they have committed sexual harassment within the last 7 years only after meeting minimum qualifications. A background check (including criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily. Failure to satisfy the background check may affect employment. The position remains open until filled. Contact Reasonable accommodations will be provided for qualified applicants with disabilities. Contact Sophia Faulk at View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr