Central Plant Operator

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.

Step into a role where your technical abilities make a campus‑wide impact. UAB is seeking a dedicated Central Plant Operator to support essential mechanical and utility operations across the University.

Position Summary:

The Central Plant Operator is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and monitoring of chilled water systems and associated equipment across UAB’s Central Plants and outlying facilities. This role supports mission-critical infrastructure by ensuring reliable delivery of chilled water to campus and hospital buildings. The operator performs inspections, diagnostics, repairs, and collaborates with contractors and inspectors to maintain optimal system performance and regulatory compliance.

Essential Accountabilities:

· Operates and monitors reciprocating and centrifugal chillers, pumps, cooling towers, and related systems using computerized monitoring and energy‑management platforms to ensure reliable plant performance.

· Ensures continuous and efficient chilled‑water delivery to all UAB campus and hospital buildings, providing 24/7/365 alarm monitoring, operational support, and timely response to abnormal operating conditions.

· Inspects equipment and records operating data including temperatures, pressures, flow rates, chemical levels, refrigerants, and oil levels to maintain accurate system performance documentation.

· Inspects, tests, calibrates, and maintains control systems such as sensors, relays, control panels, and transmitters, and diagnoses and resolves issues using electronic and computer‑based diagnostic tools.

· Performs preventive and corrective maintenance, modifications, replacements, and installations on chillers, pumps, motors, and supporting mechanical systems to ensure safe and efficient operation.

· Supports water‑treatment operations by monitoring test results, adjusting chemical feed rates, and ensuring proper system conditions are maintained.

· Coordinates inspections and project activities, including assisting Alabama state inspectors during annual pressure‑vessel surveys and supporting contractors on special projects within the chilled‑water plant and across campus.

· Maintains and reviews accurate records and technical documentation, interprets blueprints, drawings, and manufacturer specifications for HVAC and mechanical systems, and ensures a clean, orderly work environment.

· Notifies management of potential issues affecting chilled‑water distribution and plant operations.

· Performs additional duties as assigned to support plant operations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

· Proficient in operating and maintaining chilled water systems, mechanical components, and control systems.

· Ability to interpret technical documents, schematics, and specifications.

· Knowledge of OSHA regulations and safe work practices.

· Ability to follow procedures for chemical handling, confined space entry, and emergency response.

· Skilled in diagnosing system issues and implementing effective, timely solutions.

· Ability to interpret performance data and make informed operational adjustments.

· Proficient in using monitoring instruments, control systems, and diagnostic tools.

· Familiarity with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).

· Effective verbal and written communication skills.

· Ability to work collaboratively with team members, contractors, and inspectors.

· Capable of prioritizing tasks and managing multiple responsibilities.

· Demonstrates initiative and accountability in plant operations.

· Strong time‑management skills to meet operational deadlines.

· Ability to support special projects and respond effectively to urgent system needs.

Hourly Pay Range:

· $19.80 - $26.00 (commensurate with experience & qualifications)

· Candidates without 6G certification must obtain it within the first 6 months of employment.

· OT Pay: 0~10 Hours OT/Week is expected.

· May exceed 10 Hours/Week under extraordinary conditions.

Work Schedule:

· Current shift rotation follows a 5‑days‑on / 2‑days‑off schedule, followed by a 2‑days‑on / 5‑days‑off schedule.

o Shift Hours: Day and night shifts are either 6:00 AM–6:00 PM or 6:00 PM–6:00 AM.

o Position may require overtime, including evenings, weekends and holidays, based on operational needs.

o Work schedules are subject to change to meet the needs of the department and University).

Minimum Requirements:

· 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.

Licenses/Certifications/Registrations:

· EPA Section 608 Refrigerant Handling Certification preferred.

Motor Vehicle Record (MVR):

Driving record must meet University underwriting guidelines, including:

• Valid U.S. driver’s license

• Minimum age of 21

• At least three years of driving experience

• Acceptable Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)

Physical Requirements:

Must be able to safely perform job duties with or without mechanical assistance, including:

• Lifting and carrying at least 50 lbs

• Climbing stairs, ladders, and scaffolding; working at heights above 30 feet

• Bending, stooping, kneeling, and walking significant distances between and within buildings on campus

• Working in confined spaces

• Working in extreme temperature environments and humidity ranges with a variety of materials.

Additional Information:

Incomplete job profiles will not be processed. Please be certain to showcase depth and breadth of experience, as it relates to the needs of this job announcement.

About UAB:

UAB provides a comprehensive benefits package, including health coverage, competitive retirement options, wellness programs, and a wide range of employee perks designed to support you both at work and at home. You can explore the full benefits overview here: https://www.uab.edu/humanresources/home/benefits

For more information about UAB Facilities and the work we do across campus, please visit: http://www.uab.edu/facilities/.

UAB is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution 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 veteran's 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 UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.