The Co-Gen Facility Operator’s role is part of the Vanderbilt University Maintenance and Operations (VUMO) and is an individual contributor responsible for maintaining the Power Plant. This position maintains a continuous, safe, and efficient plant operation, providing steam and electricity to Vanderbilt University and Vanderbilt University Medical Center. This position ensures the plant operates within specified energy use parameters to maintain the campus utility budget. Considerable independent judgment is required to ensure the safe and efficient operation of various equipment in electrical and mechanical systems, including operating levels, shutdown and emergency procedures, plant startups from emergency shutdowns, etc. 

 

VUMO provides facilities support for all construction, renovation, and routine maintenance of University Central space and facilities; housekeeping services for approximately 5.8 million square feet of academic, administrative, residential, and recreational space; grounds care for 330 acres that are a registered arboretum; turf care for athletic fields; and utilities for the University Central and the Medical Center. The Powerhouse supplies over 330 acres of University and Medical Center with steam and electricity in the most safe, up-to-date, and eco-friendly manner possible and is continually improving efficiencies and equipment as technology allows. 

 

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

 

Control a variety of power-generation, superheated steam production equipment, and machinery during normal operation, scheduled and preventative maintenance, and emergency repair procedures Monitor meters, gauges, and control systems to verify operational parameters and adjust steam distribution, generator output, and voltage according to standard protocols and power grid requirements Utilize a variety of digital informational displays to understand operational performance variables and record information and repairs accurately into manual logs and computer databases Oversee machinery operation to determine the existence of malfunctions or suboptimal performance and initiate appropriate repair procedures and or work orders within a database when necessary Start and stop turbines and other power-generation equipment as necessary to maintain safe operation to allow for repair work and meet changing supply and demand variables Follow all relevant safety protocols and legal codes to ensure proper operation of equipment and minimize risk of damage to personnel and property  Participate in regularly provided computer-based training to improve performance, acquire professional licenses if necessary, and maintain certification required by company and government regulations as needed Communicate clearly and effectively with other power plant personnel, including managers, engineers, vendors, contractors, and repair technicians to encourage teamwork and coordinate tasks Operate, repair, and maintain gas and oil-fired heat recovery steam generators (HRSGs) Perform plant operations in such a way that operational procedures and operating parameters, including energy use guidelines, are followed Assist with outages for a turbine, boiler, HRSG, auxiliary equipment inspections, and any other major inspections Perform daily operational electronic rounds along with plant safety and housekeeping inspections Develop and Perform lock-out tag-out procedures, standard operating procedures, confined space entry permits, and hot work permits when necessary  May be required to operate vehicles such as a truck, forklift, and personnel lift (MEWP)

 

Candidates must be able to work in an energy plant operation environment that is subject to extremes of ambient temperatures, frantic activity, inactivity, heavy physical activity, and times of stressful decision-making. Training will be provided and is self-paced and must be completed to qualify as an operator within the 120-day probationary period.

 

Supervisory Relationships:

This position does not have supervisory responsibility, this position reports administratively and functionally to the Plant Assistant Manager.

 

Education and Certifications:

A high school diploma or GED is Required. A Valid Driver's License is required; must have and maintain a valid driver's license and a satisfactory driving record. Vanderbilt University engages a third party to provide up-to-date notifications regarding negative changes to motor vehicle records

 

 

Experience and Skills:

One year of relevant experience is Required. Must be able to lift 50 pounds and climb ladders up to 40 or more feet. Maintain a level of professionalism verbally and visually. Teamwork skills are a must. Basic mechanical knowledge and use of hand tools. Basic computer skills including, but not limited to, Microsoft products. Basic Knowledge of how to read a schematic or P&ID is a plus. Highly self-motivated, self-starting, and being able to work with limited supervision is preferred.

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