What are the responsibilities and job description for the Utility Plant Operator Associate position at Caltech?
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Job Summary
Under general oversight of the Senior Plant Operator (SUPO), safely and efficiently operate natural gas combustion and steam turbine generators, 300 psi steam boilers, chillers, cooling towers, and other utility plant equipment located in the Caltech Central and Satellite Utility Plants.
This is an Essential Reporting position. In the event of an emergency on campus, an employee designated as essential reporting has essential job skills that are needed for response and recovery and is expected to report to Campus as soon as possible.
Essential Job Duties
- Perform inspection tours of all equipment in the Central Utility Plant, satellite facilities, and (as needed) the utility tunnels.
- Start and shut down boilers as directed. Fire boilers to maintain safe and efficient operation. Record temperatures and pressures on log sheets and enter work time and measurements in the work management system. Maintain proper steam pressure, water level, fuel-to air ratios, and emission levels. Inspect flame patterns, water levels, and emission levels of all operating boilers.
- Perform chemical analysis on all operating boilers; perform boiler bottom blow downs; adjust boiler surface blow down and chemical injection as required.
- Calibrate water quality analyzers. Monitor, troubleshoot, backwash, and regenerate sand filters, charcoal filters, zeolite water softeners, reverse osmosis units, demineralizers, and ultraviolet sterilizers. Perform water analysis of boiler feed water, condensate, chilled water, tower water, closed loop hot water systems, and condensed steam samples.
- Start and stop air compressors and air dryers.
- Start and stop pumps and change valve line-up.
- Start and shut down centrifugal chillers.
- Assist in the operation of combustion and steam turbine driven generators.
- Troubleshoot operating equipment problems, recommend corrective action to the SUPO and take actions as directed; report maintenance problems beyond his ability to resolve to the SUPO.
- Clean machinery and spaces. Perform routine maintenance on equipment and facilities.
- Legibly record readings of plant parameters
- Answer phone calls for the Institute. Carry a reliable communication device during assigned shifts. Maintain radio or cell phone communications with on-duty and emergency personnel at all times and respond to emergencies when necessary.
- Keep the SUPO informed of all activities. Monitor the control room during SUPO tours and breaks. Respond to all emergencies in the utility plant.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Basic Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications
Required Documents
Hiring Range
35.00 - $46.50 Per Hour
The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training.
As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our and .
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.
To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to .
Disability Accommodations
If you would like to request an accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to Caltech Recruiting at .
Salary : $35 - $47
