Power Plant Operator I

Energy Management

Under direct supervision, train for and perform entry level work in the operation and control of power generation equipment and auxiliary systems, including the fuel and ash handling systems, boilers, steam turbine generators, gas turbine generators, electric distribution system, cooling towers, water treatment system, water wells and all auxiliary systems in the power plant.

Key Responsibilities:

Monitor and operate all power plant steam turbine generators, gas turbine generators / heat recovery boilers, gas/oil fired boilers and diesel generators, and all associated auxiliary systems. Routinely inspect and monitor operation of all related equipment. Make adjustments and minor repairs as required for safe, efficient, reliable and cost-effective operation; investigate and report problems as they arise.

Adjust operation of steam turbines, boilers and pressure reducing stations to maintain normal and adequate steam header pressures. Monitor the operation of all steam production equipment, including coal and biomass-fired boilers, material handling systems, including fuel and ash conveying systems, baghouses and other boiler pollution control equipment. Maintain compliance with environmental regulations. Assist Steam Plant Operators and perform minor maintenance as required; investigate and report problems as they arise.

Monitor all energy management utility distribution systems and ensure all are operated within normal operating parameters. Make adjustments as required for safe, efficient, reliable and cost-effective distribution of electric, steam and water utilities.

Monitor and operate all plant water pretreatment systems (including softeners and reverse osmosis systems), campus condensate return system (including polishers), boiler feedwater system (including pumps, deaerators and stage heaters) and the cooling towers and circulating water systems. Complete various steam, condensate, feedwater and cooling water chemical treatment tests and make adjustments as required to minimize corrosion, fouling, and scaling potential of all systems.

Monitor and operate all power plant auxiliary systems including compressed air, 480V electrical switchgear and motor control centers, DC batteries and emergency power. Safely coordinate work with steam plant operators and maintenance personnel to prevent plant upsets. Respond to plant emergencies in a responsible manner, taking appropriate action to minimize disruptions and safely restore stable operation. Complete the training requirements for Power Plant Operator I and Power Plant Operator II in a timely manner.

Complete all required department environmental and safety training, and follow all related department policies and procedures. Attend and participate in all required safety meetings, programs and training sessions. Attend and participate in additional training as required by plant supervision.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Rotating shift

* High school graduate, or an equivalent combination of experience and education from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities can be acquired, is necessary.
* Minimum 12 months as a Steam Plant Operator II at the MU Power Plant and satisfactory completion of the Steam Plant Operator I and II training programs.
* Persons in this position are required to satisfactorily complete all requirements of the Power Plant Operator Training program within 2 years of obtaining this position.
* Ability to work safely in a heavy industrial environment containing high temperature boilers, high pressure steam systems, high voltage electric systems and large rotating machinery.
* Ability to read, write and comprehend at minimum accepted levels; must be able to follow and carry-out written and verbal instructions, follow safety instructions, understand complex operating procedures, and must be able to communicate effectively with power plant staff and supervision.
* Ability to demonstrate mechanical aptitude at minimum accepted levels and perform minor, routine mechanical maintenance.
* Possession of a valid driver's license which will allow the legal operation of a motor vehicle in the state of Missouri is required.
* Must comply with all department safety and environmental policies and procedures.
* Ability on a regular basis to:
- Grasp, lift, carry and set down moderately heavy objects (50lbs.).
- Climb and work from heights on ladders, scaffolding and elevated platforms.
- Work in an environment containing dust, heat and high humidity.
* Must be able to work rotating shifts to cover a 24 hours per day, 7 day per week operation. May be required to report to work at any time, and may be placed on standby.

Possession of a valid driver's license which will allow the legal operation of a motor vehicle in the state of Missouri is required.

Salary Range: $25.00 - $33.00 hourly

Grade: GGS-F

University Title: Power Plant Operator I

Internal applicants can determine their University title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Energy Management is responsible for producing, purchasing, and delivering utility services for the University of Missouri Columbia campus. The complex district energy system begins at the combined cooling heating and power plant (CCHP) that produces steam, chilled water, and electricity used for heat, cooling, and electrifying over 17 million gross square feet of academic, research, athletic, and healthcare buildings. Additionally, Energy Management installs and manages the building automation systems to control and manage the campus building's energy consumption. Energy Management provides cost effective, reliable, and resilient utility services, allowing the University to meet its academic and research missions.
https://operations.missouri.edu/facilities/energy-management

The internal union bid period for this position ended on 11/17. All qualified internal and external candidates are now welcome to apply.

In order to be considered as a Union Bidder for this position you must:
* complete ALL sections of the application
(including all work experience - incomplete applications will not be considered)
* complete six months of regular service at the University
* apply within the published, five-day posting period
* meet the minimum qualifications for the vacancy

Your qualifications for this position will be evaluated based on the information you provide on your job application. Once the job posting period is closed, there will be no opportunity to submit additional information regarding your qualifications. Therefore, you need to ensure that your application materials are complete when submitted.

Union Bid Period: 11/10/2025 - 11/17/2025

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.