Third Class Power Plant Engineer (1 Year Appointment)

About UMass Amherst

The flagship of the Commonwealth, the University of Massachusetts Amherst is a nationally ranked public land-grant research university that seeks to expand educational access, fuel innovation and creativity, and share and use its knowledge for the common good. Founded in 1863, UMass Amherst sits on nearly 1,450-acres in scenic Western Massachusetts and boasts state-of-the-art facilities for teaching, research, scholarship, and creative activity. The institution advances a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community where everyone feels connected and valued-and thrives, and offers a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees across 10 schools and colleges, and 100 undergraduate majors. We believe every member of our university community can contribute to our ongoing success by striving for the highest level of excellence as we seek breakthrough solutions to mounting environmental, social, economic, and technological challenges in our world.

Job Summary

The Third Class Power Plant Engineer is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the University of Massachusetts Amherst Central Heating Plant equipment and systems and assists with maintenance tasks as assigned.

Essential Functions

• Performs Central Heating Plant shift operations, under the functional supervision of the Lead Operator, including startup and shutdown of equipment assuring that electrical and steam generation is maintained in a safe and reliable manner.
• Complies with all site safety requirements and procedures.
• Maintains shift operating logs and records.
• Performs basic electrical and mechanical inspections, trouble-shooting, minor repairs, and maintenance tasks as assigned.
• Performs routine chemical testing.
• Reads and records gauges and meters.
• Opens and closes valves and adjusts controls to regulate flows of operating fluids.
• Responsible for the safe receiving, handling, and storage of ammonia, water treatment chemicals, and fuel oil.
• Cleans, maintains, and/or lubricates power plant and related auxiliary equipment.
• Maintains cleanliness of work areas.
• Assists in developing standard procedures for operations and maintenance.
• Understands and utilizes Central Heating Plant computerized maintenance management system.
• Executes work orders.
• Utilizes safe working habits. Identifies hazards and takes corrective action.
• Understands, is committed to, and supports affirmative action and non-discrimination goals.

Other Functions

• Performs all duties necessary to fulfill Central Heating Plant requirements.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, education, experience, Certifications, Licensure)

• Possession of a Third-Class Stationary Engineer’s License issued by the Massachusetts Department of Public Safety pursuant to Chapter 146 of the Massachusetts General Laws.
• Possession of a Grade 2-I full active or higher Certificate of Competency issued by the Massachusetts Board of Certifications of Operators of Wastewater Treatment Facilities pursuant to the Code of Massachusetts Regulations 257 CMR 2.00 (or have the ability to obtain in one year).
• Knowledge of and experience in at least four (4) of the following skills: pipefitting, welding, machining, rigging, rotating machine repair, fabrication, machine alignment, basic vibration, and using electrical test equipment.
• Ability to read and write effectively in English and to do basic mathematics; high school diploma preferred.
• Knowledge of power plant mechanical and electrical equipment, including motors, pumps, turbine generators, boilers, fluid systems, chemical handling, water treatment systems, cooling towers, pollution control equipment, AC and DC electrical distribution and control systems, etc. and associated maintenance functions.
• Knowledge of power plant safety policies and procedures, especially in the areas of high-energy systems, chemical handling, heavy equipment, rotating machinery, confined spaces, fire suppression, and first aid.
• Ability to gain thorough knowledge of chemistry and learn power plant chemical applications.
• Ability to operate valves, switches, controls, keyboards, and other devices associated with power plants.
• Ability to use basic hand tools, portable electric and pneumatic tools, and basic rigging equipment, such as winches, hoists, and slings.
• Ability to locate, trouble-shoot, and adjust defects in mechanical equipment and/or to maintain, install, modify, and trouble-shoot plant electrical systems and equipment (even while on-line) without “tripping” equipment, with supervision if necessary.
• Ability to operate and maintain various analytical and test equipment.
• Ability to comprehend and apply technical information, including mechanical and electrical drawings.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• General knowledge of computerized maintenance management systems.

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

Experience with gas turbine operations.

Physical Demands/Working Conditions

Will be exposed to inherent power plant conditions. Must be able to use ladders and industrial trucks. Must be physically fit to perform heavy work and to be certified to wear a respirator.

Work Schedule

• Schedule varies.
• This position is designated as essential. Must be able to work rotating shifts available including weekends.

Additional Information

This is a benefitted, one-year, temporary position.

Salary Information

Grade 20, 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.

The University of Massachusetts Amherst welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti-discrimination laws.