Chiller Operator

Posting date: January 06, 2026

002065SR

1. Job Type Full-time
2. Location Cambridge
3. School/Unit Harvard University Central Administration
4. Salary Grade 000
5. Job Function Facilities
6. FLSA Status Non-exempt
7. Term Appointment No
8. Union 42 - Int Un Oper Engineers Loc 877

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join Harvard University Central Administration?

Harvard University's Central Administration (CADM) is a 5,000+ employee organization that supports the university's overall excellence by understanding and serving the needs of its schools, students, faculty, staff, alumni, and surrounding communities. Through dynamic and collaborative partnerships, CADM provides high-quality and efficient services to the schools to help them achieve their goals.

Job Description

A specifically trained mechanic, skilled in the trade of operating and servicing chilled water generation/distribution systems and related equipment/components. Responsible for maintaining an intimate knowledge of such systems and identifying and resolving problems associated with each system consistent with recognized trade practices, industry standards, codes/jurisdictional authorities, and University guidelines/practices. Also required to perform, as directed, other skills of the trade and related duties associated with the operation and maintenance of steam equipment and distribution systems, water/drainage distribution systems, and other related systems. Must maintain work area, tools and equipment in accordance with University standards/practices. Required to work independently and/or with others under the guidance of the Associate Manager and/or Working Foreman.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

• Operates central chilled water plant under varying load conditions.
• Operates other miscellaneous plant equipment including water treatment systems and compressed air systems.
• Works with other trades personnel and management personnel to maintain continuous plant operations/performance.
• Takes all related plant readings critical for operations, efficient performance, and billing (e.g., pressures, temperatures, flows, oil levels, meter readings, etc.)
• Completes daily logs and prepares reports as necessary, enters daily information in computer.
• Maintains chemical treatment program and enters information into computer.
• Cleans and maintains plant and assigned boiler facilities.
• Perform inspections, preventive maintenance on various equipment as directed.
• Operates and maintains various plant systems (including HVAC) as required to meet equipment and occupant requirements.
• Works with utility mechanics and performs other duties as directed.
• Maintains work area, tools and equipment.

Physical Requirements:

• Required to bend, reach, and hold awkward positions for prolonged periods.
• Required to lift up to 75 pounds and to lift and transport various types of equipment and tools, with others, in excess of 300 pounds.
• Must be able to push and pull heavy loads as listed above.
• Must be able to work for extended periods of time from/in ladders, high places, cramped spaces, confined spaces, and scaffolding.
• Requires considerable walking, climbing, bending, and stooping.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

• Five (5) years experience in the trade as a journeyman, current Refrigeration Technician license, and EPA CFC Technician certification required.
• Trade or vocational school mandatory.
• Must have a valid Massachusetts driver’s license.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Must be thoroughly knowledgeable of and experienced in the installation, operation, troubleshooting, maintenance and repair of all components and/or systems (chillers, cooling towers, pumps, water treatment systems, controls, etc.) pertaining to chilled water generation and distribution.
• Must be capable of reading and interpreting plans, specifications, and operating/technical manuals associated with systems/equipment within his/her work scope.
• Must observe and comply with all standard safety codes and/or practices and perform work in accordance with recognized trade practices, industry standards, codes and/or requirements of jurisdictional authorities, and University guidelines and/or practices.
• Must have a complete set of hand tools .
• Required to wear a clean neat uniform, and maintain a professional image at all times.
• Also required to wear safety equipment and clothing when appropriate and/or required.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative when necessary, as well as be capable of working as a member of a team and in conjunction with other trades.
• Must be quality focused, service oriented, and be able to clearly and professionally communicate in English with peers, managers, and customers.
• Required to take and pass annual DOT physical.

Technology Skills Requirements:

• Operation of state-of-the-art, computer-based plant control systems required.

Certificates and Licenses:

• Current Refrigeration Technician license
• EPA CFC Technician certification
• A valid Massachusetts driver’s license

Additional Information

Standard Hours/Schedule:

• 40 hours per week
• Sunday: Off
• Monday: Off
• Tuesday: 2:00pm - 10:00pm
• Wednesday: 2:00pm - 10:00pm
• Thursday: 2:00pm - 10:00pm
• Friday: 2:00pm - 10:00pm
• Saturday: 2:00pm - 10:00pm

Compensation Range/Rate (including Shift Differential if applicable):
$50.82/hour, plus a $1.65/hour shift differential

Visa Sponsorship Information:
Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position

Pre-Employment Screening:
Identity
Criminal
Certification/License
Motor Vehicle Record
Drug Test
CORI
Employment

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Work Format Details
This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.