Utility Operator

Posting date: March 10, 2026

002398SR

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 utility systems (chilled water, steam, and compressed air generation/distribution systems and related equipment/components; water/drainage distribution systems; and other related systems).

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. 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:

• A specifically trained mechanic, skilled in the trade of operating and servicing utility systems (chilled water, steam, and compressed air generation/distribution systems and related equipment/components; water/drainage distribution systems; and other related systems).
• 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.
• 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.

Working Conditions:

• Emergency Status Designation: Critical Operations Personnel (required to provide on-site support during emergency situations as determined by management).

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 Pipefitter’s license, and EPA CFC Technician certification required.
• Completion of a trade or vocational school program is required.
• Previous experience in the installation, operation, troubleshooting, maintenance and repair of all components and/or systems (chillers, boilers, piping systems, compressors, cooling towers, pumps, water treatment systems, controls, etc.) pertaining to the various utility generation and distribution systems noted above.
• Must have a valid Massachusetts driver’s license

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Oil Burner Technician’s, Fireman’s, or Operating Engineer’s License strongly preferred.
• 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.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative when necessary, as well as be capable of working as a member of a team 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.
• Operation of state-of-the-art, computer-based control systems required.

Certificates and Licenses:

• Pipefitter’s license
• EPA CFC Technician certification
• Must have a valid Massachusetts driver’s license

Additional Information

Standard Hours/Schedule:

• 40 hours per week
• Sunday: Off
• Monday: 6:00 am - 2:30 pm
• Tuesday: 6:00 am - 2:30 pm
• Wednesday: 6:00 am - 2:30 pm
• Thursday: 6:00 am - 2:30 pm
• Friday: 6:00 am - 2:30 pm
• Saturday: Off

Compensation Range/Rate (including Shift Differential if applicable):

• $55.82/hour

Visa Sponsorship Information:

• Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position

Pre-Employment Screening:

• Identity
• Criminal
• Certification(s) / License(s)
• Motor Vehicle Record
• Drug Test,
• CORI
• References

#LI-RC1

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.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 000. Corresponding salary information can be found in the job description above.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:

• Generous paid time off including parental leave
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
• Retirement plans with university contributions
• Wellbeing and mental health resources
• Support for families and caregivers
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.