Position Classification Description

Position Class Code / Title: Q4010 / Master Utility Plant Tech
Recruitment Tier: Tier 1
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Grade: 11

This is a description of a Staff Position Classification. It is not an announcement of a position opening. To view descriptions of current openings, please go to UNMJobs and Search Postings to view positions that are currently accepting applications.

The following statements are intended to describe, in broad terms, the general functions and responsibility levels characteristic of positions assigned to this classification. They should not be viewed as an exhaustive list of the specific duties and prerequisites applicable to individual positions that have been so classified.

Summary

Operates low- and high-pressure boilers, refrigeration units, gas turbines, electrical production, and potable water systems. Performs industrial water analysis and chemical treatment of steam, condensate and chilled water systems. Leads assigned staff in operation and preventative maintenance in the absence of the supervisor. May be required to work occasional 16-hour shifts, as scheduled or as otherwise required.

Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Operates, cleans, and performs preventative maintenance on rotating and stationary equipment, to include low- and high-pressure boilers, gas turbines, steam turbines, industrial chillers and auxiliary equipment.
  2. Operates boilers and auxiliary equipment, and controls the generation of steam, chilled water, electricity, and compressed air through the use of local controls, programmable logic controllers or desktop computer-based controls.
  3. Operates, controls, and adjusts machinery to generate electric power, using control boards or semiautomatic equipment; monitors control and switchboard gauges to determine if electrical power distribution meets specifications.
  4. Operates, cleans, and performs preventative maintenance on various kinds of refrigeration units, to include absorption, centrifugal, and heat exchangers.
  5. Assists in the coordination, supervision, and completion of special projects, as appropriate.
  6. Tests boiler water, condensate, feedwater, and cooling tower water samples; adds appropriate chemical treatment to boiling and cooling waters to maintain correct levels of phosphate, alkalinity, and total dissolved solids to protect equipment from internal corrosion and damage.
  7. Continuously monitors various gauges and automatic recording devices at specified times to assess operating conditions; records operational data, to include equipment temperatures, pressures, hours of operation, fuel consumption, water levels, water consumption, and electrical production and usage.
  8. Tests, operates, and performs preventative maintenance on emergency generators; logs results and other applicable information.
  9. Examines machinery or mechanical equipment and identifies reason for malfunction; performs minor maintenance repairs to bring unit back on line.
  10. Monitors and assists in the training of Utilities Plant Technicians.
  11. Enters technical information into a personal computer for the purpose of record keeping and preventative maintenance; uses and supports a computerized maintenance management system.
  12. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED; at least 5 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified. Certification/Licensure: New Mexico CID Low Pressure Boiler License; New Mexico 5 CID High Pressure Boiler License

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

  • Ability to monitor and/or maintain quality control standards.
  • Knowledge of the operation of high- and low-pressure boilers, chilled water production units, compressors, turbines, generating units, and potable water systems.
  • Ability to lead assigned staff including prioritizing and scheduling work assignments.
  • Skill in the use of personal computers and related software applications.
  • Ability to operate and maintain utility plant equipment.
  • Ability to work in elevated locations up to 50 feet.
  • Ability to use hand and power tools applicable to trade.
  • Ability to monitor operating conditions by reading meters, gauges, and automatic recording devices.
  • Ability to test systems and/or operations in compliance with published standards.
  • Ability to provide on-the-job and technical guidance and training to staff.
  • Ability to read, understand, follow, and enforce safety procedures.
  • Ability to enter boiler steam drums, water drums, fireboxes and de-aerating feed tanks.
  • Organizing and coordinating skills.
  • Knowledge of pressure testing on piping and pressure vessels.
  • Ability to test boiler, steam, condensate and chilled water systems to ensure compliance with set standards.
  • Knowledge of computerized maintenance management principles as related to supplies, equipment, and/or services ordering and inventory control.
  • Ability to discern colors for colorimetric testing of water samples and/or reading of color-coded plan instrumentation.
  • Ability to test systems and log results.
  • Knowledge of mechanical equipment, plumbing, utilities, distribution systems, controls and/or HVAC systems, including maintenance and troubleshooting.
  • Ability to perform inspections and make necessary adjustments to conform to job specifications.

Distinguishing Characteristics

    Position requires: a) Reviewing work in progress, checking and inspecting as necessary for conformance to job specifications; b) functionally supervising lower level technicians, reporting problems pertaining to performance or quality standards to supervisor

Conditions of Employment

  • Possession of a valid New Mexico driver's license is a requirement for this job.
  • Must pass a pre-employment criminal background check.
  • Must have and maintain New Mexico CID Low- and High-Pressure Boiler Operator Licenses (BO1) and (BO2).
  • Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.
  • All regular, non-temporary positions assigned to this classification are represented by a labor union and subject to the terms and conditions of the CWA Collective Bargaining Agreement.
  • Employees who provide services or work in patient care or clinical areas are required to be in compliance with the University's influenza vaccination requirement.
  • Must have Basic First Aid and Adult CPR/AED Certificates or obtain within 3 months of date of hire.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

  • Work may involve exposure to low and high temperature environments for short periods of time; dirt, dust, combustion exhaust fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors; very noisy industrial environment. Personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided as required and must be worn when appropriate.
  • Considerable physical activity. Requires heavy physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects up to 50 pounds. Physical work is a primary part (more than 70%) of job.
  • Work environment involves exposure to potentially dangerous materials and situations that require following extensive safety precautions and may include the use of protective equipment.

The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.

Revised Date: 10/26/2022