Central Utility Plant Assistant Operator

Department​
 

Facilities Central Utility Plant Shop

About the Department

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Facilities Services supports the mission of the University of Chicago through efforts to maintain and enhance the University campus and environment and provide superior client service to our community including faculty, students, staff, neighbors and visitors.

Job Information​
 

Job Summary:

Under the direction of the Utility Plant Operator, operates, maintains and monitors boilers, chillers and all auxiliary equipment located in Steam & Chiller Plants and distribution systems. Performs work in accordance with University standards and procedures.

Responsibilities:

• Operates and maintains efficient firing of gas or oil fired boilers and chiller systems.

• Turns valves and adjusts controls to set specified fuel feed, draft openings, water level, and steam pressure of boiler.

• Operates and maintains turbines, pumps, motors, air compressors, fans, and all other steam plant equipment.

• Observes pressure, temperature, and draft meters on panel to verify specified operation of automatic combustion control systems, feed water regulators and burners.

• Observes boilers and all auxiliary equipment to detect malfunctions and makes repairs, such as changing burners and tightening pipes and fittings.

• Ensures that water and steam treatment are appropriately tested and treated.

• Maintains appropriate log of meter and gauge readings and records such data.

• Records operation and maintenance actions taken during shift in operator’s logbook.

• Maintains equipment by tightening fittings, repacking bearings, lubricating, replacing packing glands, gaskets, valves, steam traps, recorders, and gauges, and cleaning or replacing burners or other components.

• Dismantles defective chiller, boiler, plant and distribution equipment; installs new or repaired parts and piping.

• Requisitions materials and supplies using in-house procedures as needed.  Keeps working area safe and clean.

• Troubleshoots all equipment associated with boilers and chillers and identifies and solves problems.

• Interprets equipment and piping documentation to troubleshoot and make repairs.

• Receives instruction and direction from Utility Plant Operator in operation of plants, and repair or maintenance of equipment.

• Responsible for operations of plants in absence of Utility Plant Operator and supervisors.

• Helps introduce new employees to shop protocol, procedures and campus applications and equipment.

• Wears and/or uses appropriate safety equipment.

• Uses computers to operate equipment; enters and access job related information.

• Undertakes tra