Position Classification Description

Position Class Code / Title: Q6001 / Utility Plant Opns Supervisor
Recruitment Tier: Tier 1
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Grade: 12

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

Oversees and coordinates the operation of one or more utility plants, ensuring uninterrupted supply of steam, chilled water, potable water, natural gas, electric, and compressed air to the University. May work extended hours on an on-call and/or overtime basis as required.

Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Supervises personnel, which typically includes recommendations for hiring, firing, performance evaluation, training, work allocation, and problem resolution.
  2. Supervises, coordinates, and monitors utility plant activities; maintains equipment and performs related duties to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient operation of low- and high-pressure boilers, absorption and electric chillers, turbine-driven cogeneration units, and auxiliary and support systems.
  3. Oversees operation of campus domestic water systems in accordance with State law and effects changes as directed by qualified Water Systems Operators; supervises routine industrial steam, water, chilled water and condensate systems analysis and chemical treatment of industrial water systems.
  4. Performs quality inspections on completed jobs; ensures conformance with University policies and procedures, building and safety codes, engineering specifications, and local, State, and Federal laws, regulations, and ordinances.
  5. Oversees and provides guidance and training on steam, condensate and chilled water systems and associated auxiliary and support systems to ensure campus utility needs are satisfied.
  6. Analyzes operational data and reconfigures operating units as necessary to provide adequate, economical service.
  7. Uses a computer to create, compose, and edit technical and/or administrative correspondence, reports, operating procedures and documentation.
  8. Plans, schedules, and monitors all work being performed by contractors and physical plant employees within area of responsibility.
  9. Oversees the overall safety of any personnel working at or visiting any plant or tunnel system under the jurisdiction of the Utilities division.
  10. Supports and assists maintenance personnel in achieving timely and efficient maintenance schedules; provides opportunities for training on routine prevention maintenance activities.
  11. Investigates abnormal operating events or equipment failures to determine cause; makes adjustments, repairs, and/or modifications as needed.
  12. Organizes and maintains an inventory of tools, equipment, and supplies.
  13. Ensures proper documentation of operations activities in logs and/or incident reports.
  14. 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 CID High Pressure Boiler License; and New Mexico Environment Division (NMED) Water Supply Level 3 (WS3) certificate.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

  • Knowledge of supplies, equipment, and/or services ordering and inventory control.
  • Ability to monitor and/or maintain quality control standards.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • Skill in the use of personal computers and related software applications.
  • Records maintenance skills.
  • Ability to use hand and power tools applicable to trade.
  • Ability to work in elevated locations up to 50 feet.
  • Ability to interpret, adapt, and apply guidelines and procedures.
  • Ability to read, understand, follow, and enforce safety procedures.
  • Ability to supervise and train employees, to include organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
  • Organizing and coordinating skills.
  • Ability to foster a cooperative work environment.
  • Employee development and performance management skills.
  • Knowledge of power plant engineering and operations.
  • Ability to discern colors for colorimetric testing of water samples and/or reading of color-coded plan instrumentation.
  • Knowledge of installing, repairing, and replacing power plant equipment.
  • Knowledge of high temperature/pressure equipment and systems, including rotating equipment, welding, and gas and steam turbine generators.
  • Knowledge of inspecting, cleaning, and adjusting utility plant equipment.
  • Knowledge of pressure testing on piping and pressure vessels.
  • Ability to perform inspections and make necessary adjustments to conform to job specifications.
  • Ability to interpret utility plant operational data and make service decisions.

Distinguishing Characteristics

    Position requires: a) Supervising personnel including recommendations for hiring, performance evaluation, training, work allocation, and problem resolution; b) Planning, scheduling and monitoring work performed by contractors and employees; c) Performing inspections on completed jobs, ensuring conformance with industry standards; and d) Monitoring power plant operations, ensuring uninterrupted supply of utilities.

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).
  • Must have and maintain NMED Water Supply Level 3 (WS3) certificate.
  • Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.
  • 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.
  • Extensive physical activity. Requires strenuous physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects over 50 pounds.
  • 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: 09/01/2024