"Power Plant Operator / Mechanic"

Power Plant Operator / Mechanic

Working Title: Power Plant Operator / Mechanic

State Role Title: Trades Technician III

Position Type: Full-time Staff (Classified)

Position Status: Full-Time

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt: Eligible for Overtime

College/Division: Business Services

Department: 100264 - Power Plant E&G

Pay Rate: Pay Range

Specify Range or Amount: $44,000 - $50,500

Beginning Review Date: 11/26/2025

The Facilities Management Department at James Madison University is currently seeking a qualified applicant for the position of Power Plant Operator / Mechanic. Applicants must be available to work all shifts.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Installs, modifies, overhauls, repairs, and maintains boilers and associated auxiliary equipment, steam distribution, and condensate return lines throughout the university.
• Prepares accurate, complete, and up-to-date records of actions taken and assures documentation is properly signed and coordinated in a timely manner.
• Troubleshoots problem areas and inspects for defective equipment and faulty components. Tests system operation and detects component malfunctions.
• Operates boilers and auxiliary equipment within designed parameters to ensure proper operation, efficiency, and safety of the plant.
• Utilizes safe practices and procedures following established safety rules and regulations.
• Trains and teaches other employees about proper procedures, repair techniques, and safety issues.

The employee in this role will be required to work a variety of shift schedules as a primary operator/maintenance mechanic within a centralized steam generation/chiller plant production facility. JMU will provide all training required to enhance knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform duties and responsibilities.

Qualifications:

Required Qualifications:

• Working knowledge of applicable safety rules, regulations, and procedures.
• Working skills include the use of hand and power tools, welding, and cutting equipment.
• Mechanical abilities including:
  • maintaining and repairing power plant and related equipment;
  • troubleshooting and diagnosing a variety of mechanical problems;
  • ability to read and interpret gauges, recorders, and monitoring equipment.
• Ability to perform simple record-keeping tasks.
• Valid driver's license.

Additional Considerations:

• A current Facilities Operator Engineer certification (1st, 2nd, or 3rd class) or the willingness to obtain the certification.
• Competitive candidates should possess knowledge of all aspects of operation, repair, and maintenance procedures to power plant equipment: boilers, pumps, valves, chillers, cooling towers, controls, 3-phase electric motors, and steam distribution systems.