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Chiller Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Develop, review, and continuously improve chiller plant operating procedures , maintenance strategies , and emergency response playbooks . * Evaluate plant redundancy, available cooling capacity, and ...

Operate and monitor chiller systems, including cooling towers, condenser/chilled water pumps, and ... Experience operating boilers and/or chiller plant systems in a commercial/industrial environment.

Operate and monitor chiller systems, including cooling towers, condenser/chilled water pumps, and ... Experience operating boilers and/or chiller plant systems in a commercial/industrial environment.

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Chiller Plant Operator information

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$13

$22

$39

How much do chiller plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for chiller plant operator in the United States is $22.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Chiller Plant Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chiller Plant Operator, you need hands-on experience with HVAC systems, refrigeration techniques, and a solid understanding of mechanical operations, typically backed by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with building automation systems (BAS), computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), and EPA refrigerant handling certification are usually required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are crucial for maintaining efficient plant operations, ensuring equipment reliability, and minimizing costly downtime.

What does a typical day look like for a Chiller Plant Operator?

A typical day for a Chiller Plant Operator involves monitoring and controlling chiller plant equipment, performing routine inspections, and responding to alarms or system irregularities to ensure consistent and efficient cooling operations. Operators are also responsible for documenting readings, conducting preventive maintenance, and troubleshooting issues as they arise. Collaboration with maintenance teams, engineers, and building management is common to address facility needs and implement repairs or upgrades. The work environment is typically a mechanical room or plant setting, and shifts may require flexibility, including nights or weekends depending on the facility.

What is a Chiller Plant Operator job?

A Chiller Plant Operator is responsible for operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting industrial chiller systems that provide cooling for buildings or processes. They monitor equipment performance, adjust controls, and perform routine maintenance to ensure efficient operation. The role requires knowledge of refrigeration principles, mechanical systems, and safety protocols. Operators also conduct inspections, log system data, and respond to emergencies to prevent downtime and equipment failures.

More about Chiller Plant Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Chiller Plant Operator jobs? Cities with the most Chiller Plant Operator job openings:
What states have the most Chiller Plant Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Chiller Plant Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Chiller Plant Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Chiller Plant Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Chiller Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 43% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,521 per year, or $22.4 per hour.
*Central Plant Operator*

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Overview

The Central Plant Operator is responsible for the daytoday operation and upkeep of the facility's building automation systems, lighting controls, and centralized chiller plant. Working under the technical direction of the Chief Engineer, this role ensures efficient performance of the chiller plant, geothermal well systems, and all automated building controls. The operator also monitors, adjusts, and maintains heating and ventilation equipment, including fans, pumps, compressors, ducts, vents, and lubrication systems that support building and industrial operations

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Serve as the primary operator for the site's building automation systems, lighting controls, and centralized chiller plant.
  • Operate the chiller plant, geothermal wells, and lighting systems in coordination with the Chief Engineer's technical guidance.
  • Perform mechanical and electrical repairs on HVAC equipment while on shift or during routine rounds.
  • Conduct inspections and functional tests to verify proper operation of refrigeration components, HVAC systems, and geothermal equipment.
  • Perform preventive maintenance on mechanical and operational equipment and operate associated electrical machinery.
  • Follow all company policies, safety procedures, and regulatory requirements.
  • Monitor and adjust ventilation and heating equipment as needed.
  • Regulate oil temperature, water flow, and system pressures by adjusting valves and controls.
  • Control fan speeds, adjust vents and ducts, record gauge readings, and document repairs and downtime.
  • Issue repair tickets and outofservice tags for equipment requiring maintenance.
  • Inspect equipment for unusual noise, heat, or performance issues.
  • Replace gauges, tighten fittings, and seal leaks using appropriate tools.
  • Clean fans, ducts, vents, and related components using scrapers, compressed air, steam, or other approved methods.
  • Maintain a safe and orderly work environment.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.

EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION, AND LICENSURE:

  • Requires a high school diploma
  • Requires experience in HVAC
  • 3 years of experience as a Central Plant Operator.
  • Secret clearance

 

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS:

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the following essential functions.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Prior experience in the supervision of a workforce responsible for operations, maintenance, and repair of commercial building infrastructure systems. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

  • Must be able be able to conduct preventative maintenance activities and minor repairs from ladders or elevated platforms. 
  • Work requires the incumbent to walk, stoop, bend, kneel, climb and work in uncomfortable positions. 
  • Ability to lift, carry and set up tools, equipment and parts that weigh up to and occasionally over fifty (50) pounds. 
  • Must be comfortable getting dirty, dusty, and greasy in an indoor or outdoor environment with frequent exposure to excessive noise. 
  • Must be able to perform duties under adverse weather conditions (extreme cold / heat, etc.).
  • Must be able to work alternate shift schedules when necessary to meet the mission requirements of the customer, to include weekends and holidays.
  • Must be able to perform on-call duties when scheduled and report to work within one hour of notification. 

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be able be able to conduct preventative maintenance activities and minor repairs from ladders or elevated platforms. 
  • Work requires the incumbent to walk, stoop, bend, kneel, climb and work in uncomfortable positions. 
  • Ability to lift, carry and set up tools, equipment and parts that weigh up to and occasionally over fifty (50) pounds. 

 

WORK AUTHORIZATION/SECURITY CLEARANCE:

Secret or higher security clearance, or the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance. U.S. Citizenship is required.

ADDITIONAL QUALIFYING FACTORS:

As a condition of employment, must pass a pre-employment drug screening, as well as have acceptable reference and background check results.

As an equal opportunity employer, The Tatitlek Corporation recognizes that our strength lies in our people. Discrimination and all unlawful harassment, including sexual harassment, in employment is not tolerated. We encourage success based on our individual merits and abilities without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, marital status, citizenship status, military status, protected veteran status or employment. We support and obey laws that prohibit discrimination everywhere we do business.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME