Operating Mechanic

 

Who we are

• High school diploma or equivalent

• One (1) year of experience maintaining commercial or industrial mechanical equipment preferred

• Valid U.S. driver’s license

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• High school diploma or equivalent

• Five (5) years of experience maintaining and operating a steam plant or comparable industrial facility

• Valid U.S. driver’s license

Applicants must meet the stated minimum education and experience requirements for the level they wish to be considered.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Working knowledge of stem cycle, plumbing, piping, mechanical repairs, electrical work, and general construction

• Ability to interpret technical drawings and documentation

• Strong communication and customer service skills

• Flexibility in dealing with emergency situations

• Basic computer skills and familiarity with Microsoft Windows

• Constant attention to safety for self, co-workers, and others

• Thorough knowledge of steam plant operations, boiler systems, and associated chemicals

• Ability to independently operate, troubleshoot, and maintain complex plant systems

• Experience planning and scheduling maintenance activities

• Ability to assume lead responsibilities in the absence of a supervisor or lead mechanic

Job Duties

• Monitor steam plant operations for safe, reliable, and efficient performance as instructed

• Start/stop boilers and auxiliary equipment and switch boiler fuels when instructed

• Maintain and update operational logs and reports

• Receive oil deliveries in accordance with Institute policies and applicable regulations

• Conduct water tests and adjust chemical feed rates as directed

• Perform routine and emergency maintenance on mechanical, piping, electrical, and instrumentation components

• Assist with annual high-pressure boiler shutdowns and maintenance inspections

• Monitor and maintain chemical inventories, move chemicals and salt as needed

• Check and service satellite steam boilers and closed loop systems across campus

• Perform other duties as assigned

 

• Independently start, stop, and troubleshoot boilers and auxiliary systems without supervision

• Identify maintenance needs and work with supervisor to plan and schedule repairs

• Conduct and interpret water tests, adjusting chemical systems proactively

• Provide quality control oversight during annual high-pressure boiler shutdowns

• Order supplies and materials for approval by the Lead Operating Mechanic or Supervisor

• Assume lead responsibilities when Supervisor or Lead Operating Mechanic is unavailable

Shift

Non-Standard Shift: This position involves scheduled shift assignments on the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd shifts.

The 3rd shift is typically scheduled only during the winter months, generally from December through late March, depending on weather conditions and the onset of freezing temperatures. The role supports the operation of two central steam plants and provides maintenance and repair response coverage for all campus facilities.

Travel

Local travel between campus locations only

Driving

Driving a Rensselaer vehicle for non-passenger use

Starting Salary/Rate

• Operating Mechanic: $26.00 - $28.50 per hour
• Sr. Operating Mechanic: $29.00 - 31.00 per hour