CENTRAL PLANT OPERATOR (4)

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Birmingham, AL

JOB DETAILS
SALARY
$19.80–$25.24 Per Hour
SKILLS
Blueprints, Centralized Operations/Management, Compensation and Benefits, Continuous Deployment/Delivery, Control Systems, Distribution Operations, Documentation, Driver's License, Emergency Response, Energy Management, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), HVAC, High School Diploma, Hospital/Healthcare Construction, Housekeeping/Cleaning, Instrumentation, Leadership, Maintenance Services, On Call, Operational Support, Organizational Skills, Performance Analysis, Physical Demands, Pressure Vessels, Preventative Maintenance, Problem Solving Skills, Pumps, Record Keeping, Regulations, Safety Compliance, Systems Maintenance, Testing, Time Management, Underwriting, Water Treatment
LOCATION
Birmingham, AL
POSTED
30+ days ago

CENTRAL PLANT OPERATOR 4 - Job Number T234174

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.

Job Summary

The Central Plant Operator is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and monitoring of chilled water systems and associated equipment across UABs Central Plants and outlying facilities. This role supports mission-critical infrastructure by ensuring reliable delivery of chilled water to campus and hospital buildings.

Key Responsibilities

  • Operate and Monitor Chilled Water Systems • Operate reciprocating and centrifugal chillers, pumps, cooling towers, and related systems using computerized monitoring and energy management systems. • Ensure continuous chilled water delivery to UAB Campus and Hospital buildings.

  • Daily Inspections and Performance Monitoring • Inspect equipment and record operating data, including temperatures, pressures, flow rates, chemical levels, refrigerants, and oil levels. • Identify and respond to unusual conditions, such as vibrations, heat, noise, and odors.

  • Instrumentation and Controls • Inspect, test, calibrate, and maintain control systems, including sensors, relays, control panels, and transmitters. • Diagnose and resolve issues using electronic and computer-based tools.

  • Maintenance and Repairs • Assist with preventive and corrective maintenance, modifications, replacements, and installations on chillers, pumps, motors, and support systems. • Support maintaining water treatment systems and adjusting chemical feed rates based on test results.

  • Alarm Monitoring and Emergency Response • Provide 24/7/365 alarm monitoring and operational support for all UAB Campus and Hospital buildings. • Notify management of potential issues affecting chilled water distribution and plant operations.

  • Regulatory and Contractor Support • Assist Alabama state inspectors during annual pressure vessel surveys and certifications. • Support contractors on special projects within the chilled water plant and across campus.

  • Documentation and Reporting • Maintain accurate records of inspections, maintenance activities, and system performance. • Interpret blueprints, drawings, and manufacturer specifications related to HVAC and mechanical systems.

  • General Duties and Housekeeping • Maintain a clean and orderly work environment. • Perform other duties as assigned to support plant operations.

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Minimum of 3 years of HVAC experience required.
  • Graduation from an accredited vocational school in HVAC is strongly encouraged.

Certifications

  • Valid Alabama drivers license required.
  • Must meet University underwriting guidelines for driving.
  • EPA Section 608 Refrigerant Handling Certification preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

  • Technical Proficiency
  • Safety & Compliance
  • Problem Solving & Critical Thinking
  • Technology & Tools
  • Communication & Collaboration
  • Organizational & Leadership Abilities
  • Project & Time Management
  • Physical Requirements

Compensation and Benefits

  • Starting Pay Range: $19.80 - $25.24 commensurate with experience and qualifications.
  • OT Pay: $0-10 Hours OTWeek is expected. May exceed 10 HoursWeek under extraordinary conditions.
  • Benefits Include: • Multiple Health Care Plan options • Dental • Vision • Pre-tax Flexible Spending Account • Health Savings Account • Participate in the RSA Pension plan, 403b, and 457b Retirement savings plans • Accident Insurance • Identity Theft Protection • Pet Benefits • LifeAD&D & Disability Insurance • UAB Employee Wellness • Employee Assistance and Counseling • Vacation • Sick Leave • 9 Paid Holidays • Year 3 Personal Holidays • Year Educational Assistance for Employees and Families

Work Schedule

The current shift schedule follows a 5 Days On, 2 Days Off, 2 Days On, 5 Days Off schedule. The current daily work schedules are either 6AM-to-6PM or 6PM-to-6AM. This position may require overtime, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as operational needs dictate. Must be able to work a flexible work schedule, including on-call. Work schedules are subject to change to meet the needs of the University.

How to Apply

For full consideration, please apply your resume and cover letter by the posted deadline. The submitted documents should highlight qualifications and experience relevant to the position as described in the posting. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

About UAB Facilities

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

UAB is an Equal Employment and Equal Educational Opportunity Institution

UAB is dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex, including pregnancy, genetic information, age, disability, and veterans status. As required by Title IX, UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to UABs Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.

About the Company

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University of Alabama at Birmingham