Special Instructions to Applicants: All interested applicants should attach a resume in the Supporting Documents section of the application. A cover letter is welcomed but not required. We suggest the documents be in a PDF format to avoid formatting issues.

Position Summary

Under the supervision of the Lead Operator, the Plant Operator II is responsible for operating and maintaining Rice University's central plants and utility infrastructure. This includes overseeing plant equipment, remote systems, and utility operations, as well as monitoring the campus Building Automation Systems (BAS) for safe and efficient operation. The role involves responding to problems and emergencies within the Plants and across Campus while ensuring the safety and performance of personnel in and around the Plants and Tunnel System, including Rice employees and independent contractors.

Workplace Requirements

This position is exclusively on-site, necessitating all duties to be performed in-person at Rice University per agreed upon schedule. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.

This role is classified as an essential position, requiring on-site presence to effectively carry out its vital functions.

This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position, and the salary is $23.41 to $29.23 an hour, contingent upon qualifications and experience. *Non-exempt (hourly) positions under FLSA are eligible for overtime.

Minimum Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent Three years of experience in plant operations, utility systems, or a related field Current City of Houston Second Grade Stationary Engineer’s license Skills General knowledge of test and diagnostic equipment, tools, instrumentation, and computer-based monitoring and control systems General computer aptitude Ability to read mechanical blueprints and electrical schematic diagrams associated with plant systems Ability to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing Ability to utilize hand tools and equipment in troubleshooting and repairs Ability to respond to and manage emergency situations effectively

Preferences:

Background with the district energy control systems, particularly those found on university campuses, including combined heat and power turbines, high-pressure boilers, and centrifugal chillers. Knowledge of co-generation and combined heat and power systems and boiler safety
standards. C-grade (or better) State of Texas water license.  Valid Texas Driver’s License (or ability to obtain within 30 days of employment) required with no more than three moving violations or at-fault accidents within the past 36 months and no convictions or deferred dispositions for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) or Driving Under the Influence (DUI) within the past 5 years

Essential Functions

Under the direction of the lead operator, energizes, secures, adjusts, and operates Plant equipment, including turbines, chillers, boilers, pumps, cooling tower fans, air compressors, generators, etc., to respond to changes in campus load or to comply with planned scheduling and/or load management procedures. Continually monitor all aspects of Plant and campus auxiliary equipment and operation  Under the direction of the lead operator, necessary changes and adjustments are made to ensure safe and efficient plant operation via direct inspection, monitoring systems, and the assistance of others. Under the direction of the lead operator or supervisor, performs general and preventative maintenance, equipment repair and lubrication, quality, and chemical treatment monitoring for water and steam systems as necessary to ensure optimal equipment performance. Thoroughly communicates with the lead operator to facilitate continuity of operations during regular shifts and shift changes.  Maintains all operations and responsibilities until relieved by the next shift. Informs lead operator of events and problems that may significantly affect Plant or campus operations. Enters work orders and daily work time using CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System). Performs all other duties as assigned.

Additional Functions

Ability to problem solve under stressful/critical conditions Performs general housekeeping in the plants to keep the spaces and equipment clean and accessible

Working Conditions

Must be able to lift loads no greater than 50 lbs. Must be able to climb stairs, ladders, scaffolding, and work in confined areas with piping and wiring obstructions, as needed, to access equipment. Requires moderate to heavy physical activity, including bending, stooping, climbing,
balancing, standing, and walking up to 8 hours per day. Occasionally required to enter utility tunnels and confined spaces.

Essential Personnel

This position is considered essential during a campus emergency. The incumbent in the position is expected to report to campus, provide the essential services designated and work under the overall direction of the Emergency Management Team for the duration of a campus emergency.
 

Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits 

Rice Mission and Values: Mission and Values | Rice University

Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity at all levels and considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.