Utility Plant Operator
University of Massachusetts Amherst

Job Info

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Job no: 523475
Work type: Staff Full Time
Location: UMass Amherst
Department: Utility Power Plant
Union: AFSCME
Categories: Facilities/Grounds, AFSCME A

About UMass Amherst

UMass Amherst, the Commonwealth's flagship campus, is a nationally ranked public research university offering a full range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees. The University sits on nearly 1,450-acres in the scenic Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts and offers a rich cultural environment in a bucolic setting close to major urban centers. In addition, the University is part of the Five Colleges (including Amherst College, Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, and Smith College), which adds to the intellectual energy of the region.

Job Summary

The Utility Plant Operator is responsible for performing work with various tools and equipment to repair, install, and maintain mechanical components and systems at the University of Massachusetts Amherst Power Plant.

Essential Functions

• Performs repair and maintenance work, following vendor manuals and procedures involving such tasks as drilling, tapping, metal heating/cutting, welding, riggings, and machinery alignment.
• Maintains and repairs mechanical equipment such as turbines, boilers, pumps, valves, and their auxiliary equipment.
• Maintains Power Plant equipment lubrication, steam trap monitoring and vibration analysis programs.
• Installs and repairs power piping systems in the Power Plant, including the ability to insulate power piping systems in the power plant.
• Identifies mechanical design or machinery problems and recommends improvements or modifications necessary for resolution.
• Performs all types of rigging and scaffolding associated with the removal and installation of pumps, fans, motors, turbines, air compressors, and major valves.
• Follows safety/environmental procedures, rules and regulations and implements safe work practices. Identifies hazards and recommends and/or implements appropriate safeguards.
• Works directly with Power Plant personnel in a team effort to support safe, efficient, and reliable operations of the Power Plant.
• Trains others to gain knowledge in mechanical system maintenance.
• Schedules, coordinates, and monitors contractors on specific tasks as required. Attends to housekeeping at the end of each job/task.
• Make recommendations to the Assistant Plant Manager concerning the acquisition and installation of Power Plant maintenance, repair, and testing equipment.
• Understand and utilize the Power Plant computerized maintenance management system.
• Executes work orders.
• Maintain and update shop records including prints, drawings, and original equipment manufacturers manuals.
• Assist in the storage and management of equipment and materials in the Power Plant's warehouse.
• Collects, stores, and ships hazardous waste in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
• Understands, is committed to, and supports affirmative action and non-discrimination goals.

Other Functions

• Performs receiving and shipping duties, if required.
• Performs other duties assigned by the Assistant Plant Manager.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)

• Four (4) years of experience as a mechanic preferably in an industrial plant environment.
• Possess and maintain ASME Power Piping Welding Certification, Society for Maintenance and Reliability (SMRP) Certification or equivalent, and Hoisting License - 3A.
• Knowledge of and experience in most of the following skill areas: pipefitting, plumbing, welding, machining, riggings, rotating machine repair, fabrication, machine alignment, piping schematics, mechanical drawings, vibration analysis, electrical test equipment.
• Demonstrated ability to locate, troubleshoot, adjust, and correct defects in mechanical equipment.
• Ability to comprehend and apply technical information, including mechanical and electrical drawings (such as blueprints, P&IDs, single-line diagrams, and schematics).
• Demonstrated ability to communicate and coordinate work with others on technical subjects.
• Has the ability and knowledge to utilize various measuring tools, dial indicators, tapes, gauges, and various electrical and instrument related test equipment.
• Capable of utilizing hand and power tools needed to complete assignments.
• Has the ability and knowledge to align mechanical equipment using precision instrumentation.
• Can troubleshoot and repair pumping systems and solve most problems involving packing and gaskets.
• Basic working knowledge of Windows based software programs.
• General knowledge with computerized maintenance management systems.
• Able and willing to work overtime which can either be scheduled or call-in during off-shift hours including holidays and weekends.
• Will be exposed to inherent power plant conditions and must be able to use ladders, hoist, cranes, and industrial trucks.
• Must be capable of unassisted handling of material up to 50 lbs.
• Maintain valid driver's license. Able to travel for training or other job-related duties.
• Ability to operate various equipment, such as forklifts, lulls, lifts, and other plant equipment.
• Ability to work outside for long periods of time.
• Ability to read, write, and speak the English language and perform basic mathematical computations.

Preferred Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Laser alignment experience.

Physical Demands/Working Conditions

Requires the ability to balance, carry, push, pull, stand, bend, drive, reach, sit, twist, and perform repetitive movements.

Additional Details

Position is designated as essential personnel.

Work Schedule

M-F; 7am - 3pm.

Salary Information

Grade 18; special recruitment rate: step 6.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Along with the application, please submit a resume. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references.

UMass Amherst is committed to a policy of equal opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, caste, creed, sex, age, marital status, national origin, disability, political belief or affiliation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related condition(s), veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, natural and protective hairstyle and any other class of individuals protected from discrimination in employment, admission to and participation in academic programs, activities, and services, and the selection of vendors who provide services or products to the University. To fulfill that policy, UMass Amherst is further committed to a program of affirmative action to eliminate or mitigate artificial barriers and to increase opportunities for the recruitment and advancement of qualified minorities, women, persons with disabilities, and covered veterans. It is the policy of UMass Amherst to comply with the applicable federal and state statutes, rules, and regulations concerning equal opportunity and affirmative action.

Advertised: May 30 2024 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Aug 30 2024 Eastern Daylight Time

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