Utility Plant Tech 1

The University is seeking a skilled and motivated Utility Plant Technician 1 to support the operation and maintenance of critical utility systems that serve the campus community. This position plays a key role in ensuring the reliable production and distribution of steam, chilled water, electricity, and compressed air through the operation, monitoring, and maintenance of plant equipment and systems.

In this role, you will operate and perform preventive maintenance on high- and low-pressure boilers, industrial chillers, turbines, emergency generators, and associated equipment.

Responsibilities include

monitoring plant operations, testing and treating industrial water systems, recording operational data, identifying and troubleshooting equipment issues, and supporting a safe and efficient working environment. The successful candidate will utilize computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) and assist with maintaining compliance with operational, safety, and environmental standards.

The University of New Mexico’s Utility Services oversees and facilitates utility operating processes across campus to ensure a comfortable and conducive environment for student, staff, faculty, and visitors. Utility Services consists of five focus areas: electricity, heating steam, chilled water, domestic water, and compressed air.

The Ford Utilities Center can generate 219,000 pounds of steam per hour, 4,000 tons of chilled water, 14 megawatts of electricity, and enough compressed air to keep the entire campus comfortable. Utility Services also operates two remote chilled water plants, Lomas Chilled Water Plant and the HSC Chilled Water Plant. These facilities have a combined chilled water capacity of 8,300 tons.

The fourth location is the Campus Utility Plant, which can generate 24,000 pounds per hour of steam, and 1,000 tons of chilled water. In addition, the Utilities Services Water Section manages the production and distribution of domestic water to the main campus.

Duties and Responsibilities

Operates and performs preventative maintenance on rotating and stationary equipment, to include high pressure boilers, gas turbines, industrial chillers, and auxiliary equipment. 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.

Starts, stops, and reconfigures chilled water production to maintain the most efficient operating parameters necessary to meet the changing needs of the University. Tests and controls the chemistry of boiler water, condensate, and cooling tower water. 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.

Tests, operates, and performs preventative maintenance on emergency generators; logs results and other applicable information. Examines machinery or mechanical equipment and identifies reason for malfunction; performs minor maintenance repairs to bring unit back on line. Ensures proper care in the use and maintenance of equipment and supplies; promotes continuous improvement of workplace safety and environmental practices.

Enters technical information into a personal computer for the purpose of record keeping and preventative maintenance; uses and supports a computerized maintenance management system. Assists as required with the training of lower-level technical staff in the maintenance and operation of all plant equipment; occasionally supports and assists maintenance personnel in the performance of their duties.

Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned. Why Join Us? Working as a staff member at the University of New Mexico (UNM) offers a range of exciting benefits including: Comprehensive Healthcare: Access to competitive health insurance plans including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Retirement Plans: Pension and enrollment in a choice of additional retirement plans with generous employer contributions.

Paid Time Off: Generous annual vacation leave (up to 168 hours per year), sick leave (up to 96 hours per year), and 11 paid holidays to support work-life balance. Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning, career advancement, and tuition remission for employees and dependents. Wellness Programs: Access to wellness programs, fitness facilities, and resources promoting employee health and well-being.

Community Engagement: Involvement in a vibrant campus community with diverse cultural and recreational activities. Job Security: Stable employment with competitive salaries and opportunities for advancement within our respected flagship institution of New Mexico.