Entry Level Power Plant Operator Jobs in Springfield, MA

3rd Class Power Plant Engineer
Job no: 509516
Work type: Staff
Location: Amherst
Categories: On Site, Facilities Maintenance & Trades, Full Time, AFSCME
Title: 3rd Class Power Plant Engineer
Executive Area: Administration and Finance
College/School/MBU: Facilities Management
Department: Utility Power Plant
Work Location: Amherst
Schedule: Full Time
Work Arrangement: Onsite
Job Summary
The Third Class Power Plant Engineer will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the University of Massachusetts Amherst Central Heating Plant equipment and systems, and assists with maintenance tasks as assigned.
Essential Functions
Performs Central Heating Plant shift operations, under the functional supervision of the Lead Operator, including startup and shutdown of equipment assuring that electrical and steam generation is maintained in a safe and reliable manner.
Complies with all site safety requirements and procedures.
Maintains shift operating logs and records.
Performs basic electrical and mechanical inspections, trouble-shooting, minor repairs, and maintenance tasks as assigned.
Performs routine chemical testing.
Reads and records gauges and meters.
Opens and closes valves and adjusts controls to regulate flows of operating fluids.
Responsible for the safe receiving, handling, and storage of ammonia, water treatment chemicals, and fuel oil.
Cleans, maintains, and/or lubricates power plant and related auxiliary equipment.
Maintains cleanliness of work areas.
Assists in developing standard procedures for operations and maintenance.
Understands and utilizes Central Heating Plant computerized maintenance management system.
Executes work orders.
Utilizes safe working habits. Identifies hazards and takes corrective action.
Understands, is committed to, and supports affirmative action and non-discrimination goals.
Performs all duties necessary to fulfill Central Heating Plant requirements.
Other Functions
Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Possession of a Third Class Stationary Engineer's License issued by the Massachusetts Department of Public Safety pursuant to Chapter 146 of the Massachusetts General Laws.
Possession of a Grade 2-I full active or higher Certificate of Competency issued by the Massachusetts Board of Certifications of Operators of Wastewater Treatment Facilities pursuant to the Code of Massachusetts Regulations 257 CMR 2.00.
Ability to read and write effectively in English and to do basic mathematics; high school diploma preferred.
Knowledge of power plant mechanical and electrical equipment, including motors, pumps, turbine generators, boilers, fluid systems, chemical handling, water treatment systems, cooling towers, pollution control equipment, AC and DC electrical distribution and control systems, etc. and associated maintenance functions.
Knowledge of power plant safety policies and procedures, especially in the areas of high-energy systems, chemical handling, heavy equipment, rotating machinery, confined spaces, fire suppression, and first aid.
Ability to gain thorough knowledge of chemistry and learn power plant chemical applications.
Knowledge of and experience in at least four (4) of the following skills: pipefitting, welding, machining, rigging, rotating machine repair, fabrication, machine alignment, basic vibration, and using electrical test equipment.
Ability to operate valves, switches, controls, keyboards, and other devices associated with power plants.
Ability to use basic hand tools, portable electric and pneumatic tools, and basic rigging equipment, such as winches, hoists, and slings.
Ability to locate, trouble-shoot, and adjust defects in mechanical equipment and/or to maintain, install, modify, and trouble-shoot plant electrical systems and equipment (even while on-line) without "tripping" equipment, with supervision if necessary.
Ability to operate and maintain various analytical and test equipment.
Ability to comprehend and apply technical information, including mechanical and electrical drawings.
Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
General knowledge with computerized maintenance management systems.
Will be exposed to inherent power plant conditions. Must be able to use ladders and industrial trucks. Must be physically fit to perform heavy work and to be certified to wear a respirator.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with gas turbine operations.
Working Conditions
Work is performed in indoor and/or outdoor environments, and requires frequent lifting, bending, tool use or equipment use. May involve work in confined spaces or at heights.
Work Schedule and Work Arrangement
Monday - Friday; 7:00AM - 3:00PM
Additional Details
This position is subject to final budgetary and administrative approval.
Salary Information
Pay Grade: AFSCME Grade 20
Click here to view the Classified Step Scale
Special Instructions for Applicants
Along with the application, please submit a resume. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references.
This position will remain open for the time period required by any applicable collective bargaining agreement and will continue until a suitable candidate pool is identified. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.
Advertised: 03 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 03 Nov 2026 Eastern Standard Time
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