Job Details

Job Summary

To operate boilers, steam turbine-generator sets, electrical distribution switchgear and steam control devices for campus supply, as well as all auxiliary systems required to support the operation of these systems.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Operates auxiliary equipment such as pumps, compressors, pollution control equipment, coal-handling equipment and cooling towers.
• Continuously monitors and records hourly operating condition of turbines, generators and switchgear.
• Regenerates water softeners; tests and treats boiler feed water, storage water and cooling water.
• Checks auxiliary equipment related to turbine generators and boilers. Adjusts and records operating temperatures and pressures to maintain equipment in proper operating condition. Records data on log sheets and log books.
• Operates boilers and associated equipment.
• Start-ups and shut-downs steam turbine generator sets and connects or disconnects from electrical distribution system.
• Operates steam control devices that supply steam to all campus systems.
• Performs all electrical switching on all distribution switchgear.
• Learns the duties of the Lead Operating Engineer-Steam and Power Plant IV for upgrade and promotional opportunities.
• Assists other operating staff as required.
• Trains and instructs lower level operators in the proper operation of turbines, generators, switchgear and steam to campus control devices, as well as all auxiliary systems required to support the operation of these systems.
• Clean equipment and work area as required.
• Keeps Lead Operating Engineer-Steam and Power Plant IV informed of all changes in operating conditions.
• Communicates and explains equipment problems through the Lead Operating Engineer-Steam and Power Plant IV to appropriate maintenance personnel.
• Maintains all work areas, tools and equipment in a clean and orderly condition.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Additional Physical Demands

Work Environment

• Work area can be hot, humid, noisy and dusty.
• Exposure to high temperature steam and water, high pressure steam and water, and high voltage electricity.
• Certain hazards may be present in the form of radiation, asbestos, insulation, chemicals, high temperatures, high noise levels, severe weather, dust, etc.
• There is exposure to all types of weather conditions to perform essential duties occurring outside.
• Some jobs require an employee to work in an environment that involves exposure to unpleasant and noxious fumes and odors.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Supervisory Controls

• Instructions may be written or oral as conditions require from the Lead Operating Engineer-Steam and Power Plant IV. Response to instruction is reflected on log readings and observation by the Lead Operating Engineer-Steam and Power Plant IV.
• Equipment and systems are operated within preset limits. Changes beyond normal conditions must be approved by the Lead Operating Engineer-Steam and Power Plant IV.

2. Guidelines

• Guidelines are from operating manuals or written instructions.
• Must be familiar with piping systems which are shown on blueprints and in power plant instruction manual. Equipment start-up and shutdown procedures are in manufacturers operating manuals.
• Must conform to safety regulations of both F&S and OSHA standards.

3. Misc.

• Support the Mission, Vision, Values and Guiding Principles of Facilities & Services.
• Promote safe operations and support departmental safety initiatives and programs.

Minimum Qualifications

1. High school diploma or equivalent.
2. Two (2) years (24 months) of work experience in the maintenance and operation of steam and power plant equipment.
3. One (1) year (12 months) of work experience in a position comparable to the Steam and Power Plant II.
4. Possession of current/valid licenses and certificates, as required by the employing institution.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Working knowledge of boilers, turbines, generators, switchgear, and all auxiliary equipment.
• Working knowledge of all electrical distribution systems both incoming from the local power provider and outgoing to Distribution Centers, Load Centers and campus buildings.
• Ability to isolate electrical system from the local power provider during emergency situations.
• Working knowledge of steam distribution system, the interaction between different campus steam systems and how to control the same.
• Must have complete understanding of all systems (steam, water, air, etc.) connected with equipment operated.
• Ability to understand start-up procedures and operating standards set by manufacturers.
• Ability to understand piping diagrams and blueprints.
• Must successfully complete the training program established for the Steam and Power Plant Level III position.

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Civil Service Steam & Power Plant III position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after May 28, 2025. The collective bargaining agreement sets the wage at $48.67 per hour.

For more information on Civil Service classifications, please visit the SUCSS web site at www.sucss.illinois.gov/pages/classspec/default.aspx.

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on May 17, 2025. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. In order to be considered as a transfer candidate, you must apply for this position. Applications not submitted through jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment. For further information about this specific position, please contact Ken McCray, klmccray@illinois.edu, 217-300-6211. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

The University of Illinois offers a very competitive benefits portfolio, depending on the position. Click for a complete list of Employee Benefits.

Requisition ID: 1030209
Job Category: Crafts & Trades
Apply at: jobs.illinois.edu