CoGen Operator
The University of California, San Diego
About this position
Position Description
Department Overview: The Central Utility Plant (CUP) Operator/Co-Gen is primarily responsible for the skilled operation, maintenance and repair of all equipment associated with the central plant, including the troubleshooting, testing, repair, replacement and installation of gas turbines, heat recovery steam generators, high voltage electrical distribution systems, emergency diesel generators, natural gas compressors, emission control equipment, steam driven chillers, electric chillers, heat exchangers, pumps, cooling towers, air compressors, water softeners, filtration systems and thermal energy storage systems. The CUP monitors various energy management systems for the campus. Position Overview: Under supervision, this position monitors, operates, and maintains combined heat and power plant, chilled water/high temperature hot water systems, and connected co-generation equipment controls. Under supervision, this position operates, services, and repairs stationary power plant equipment including gas turbines, heat recovery steam generators, high voltage electrical distribution systems, emergency diesel generators, natural gas compressors, emission control equipment, steam driven chillers, electric chillers, heat exchangers, pumps, cooling towers, air compressors, water softeners, filtration systems and thermal energy storage systems both locally and at remote plant sites. Maintain central plant cleanliness and stowage, including preservation of valves, piping, equipment and support structures. Support plant operations that ensure continuous plant performance safely and efficiently. Monitor and respond to changes in operating conditions to maintain continuous plant performance. Perform plant operations, perform work duties and routines, perform planned, predictive, and corrective maintenance, and respond to emergencies as needed. Perform physical watch stander rounds of the Central Utility & Co-generation Plants per prescribed frequencies and in accordance with established round protocols and recording direction. Maintain accurate records of equipment operation and maintenance on log sheets and logbooks. Maintain accurate records of time and materials used for equipment repairs and maintenance. Record and report any abnormal conditions to the Central Utilities Plant Operator/Co-Gen Lead. Assist Central Utilities Plant Operator/Co-Gen Lead in troubleshooting any plant issues. This is a maintenance position, which will require the selected individual(s) to also stand watch as required, and to cover for watchstander vacation and sick call-in's on occasion. Adhere to policies, procedures, and practices on safety and plant operation instructions.
Qualifications
Journey-level experience operating, maintaining and repairing Central Utility and Combined Cycle Co- Generation Plant systems, pumps, piping, digital and pneumatic controls, i.e. gas turbines, heat recovery steam generators, high voltage electrical distribution systems, emergency diesel generators, natural gas compressors, emission control equipment, steam driven chillers, electric chillers, heat exchangers, pumps, cooling towers, air compressors, water softeners, filtration systems and thermal energy storage systems and other related controls and systems. Familiarity with the principles of water treatment pertaining to boilers, high and medium temperature water, chill water, steam condensate, water hardness, etc. to maintain and extend the life of piping and equipment. Experience performing water chemistry analysis and making required chemical adjustments on multiple water heating and cooling systems. Experience reading and recording data such as equipment temperature, pressures and fluid levels. Experience documenting corrective, maintaining logs and trouble call records. Experience reading mechanical and electrical drawings such as P&IDs, Single Line diagrams, schematics, and logic diagrams. Experienced user of standard computer systems and applications including Microsoft Office Suite, Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) such as Maximo, electronic mail and web based applications. Have substantial knowledge and understanding of engineering fundamentals with respect to Central Utility and Cogeneration Plant systems and equipment. Basic knowledge of electrical systems. Ability to work effectively in a service oriented environment subject to frequently changing priorities. Ability to effectively communicate orally, in writing or electronically. Ability to effectively work individually or in teams as well as with diverse groups. Excellent problem-solving skills and sound adjustment. Ability to perform all duties associated with power plant operations which include bending, lifting, reaching, working on elevated platforms and ladders, working in confined spaces, or working at significant heights.
Job Location
Campus