Posting Information
Position Information
Posting Number
CS00632
Position Title
Power Plant Operator
Division
Administration and Finance Division
Department Name
Maintenance and Repairs
Position Type
Staff - Classified
General Statement of Duties
On an assigned shift, to be responsible for the operation, maintenance and repair of a large electric power generating and heating plant in a state institution or group of institutions; and to do related work as required.
Supervision Received
Works under general supervision of a superior; assignments are given in detail, but some latitude is allowed in determining methods and techniques to be used in effecting the desired results as to repairs and general operation of the unit; work is reviewed in process and upon completion.
Supervision Exercised
Supervises the work of subordinates engaged in tasks involved in the operation, maintenance and repair of equipment used in the operation of such a plant.
Position Overview
The Power Plant Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of the College's central heating and power plant during an assigned shift. This position plays a vital role in maintaining essential campus utilities by operating, monitoring, and repairing a wide range of power-generation, heating, and refrigeration equipment. The operator oversees the performance of high-pressure steam boilers, turbines, generators, pumps, compressors, motors, and related systems, ensuring continuous service and regulatory compliance.
In addition to performing hands-on maintenance and troubleshooting, the Power Plant Operator supervises plant personnel, responds to emergency situations, assists with equipment installations and major repairs, and monitors system performance through routine inspections and operational recordkeeping. This position is ideal for a skilled and safety-conscious professional who enjoys working with complex mechanical systems and contributing to the reliable operation of critical campus infrastructure.
Illustrative Examples of Work Performed
- On an assigned shift, to be responsible for the operation, maintenance and repair of a large electric power generating and heating plant in a state institution or group of institutions.
- To be responsible for the efficient operation, maintenance and repair of such equipment as: stationary engines, turbines, generators, switchboards, transformers, motors and controls, high pressure steam boilers, blowers, pumps, compressors, ventilators and other heating, generating and refrigerating equipment.
- To supervise and participate in the making of emergency repairs.
- To assist in new installations and in major repairs.
- To read and record findings of instruments and gauges; to keep records of fuel and water consumed and to make reports based on this data.
- To supervise the work of firemen and other power plant employees.
- To inspect equipment and note its condition and performance.
- To do related work as required.
Education
Such as may have been gained through: graduation from a senior high school.
Experience
Such as may have been gained through: employment in a responsible capacity in the firing and maintenance of steam boilers and other power plant equipment.
Or Combination of Education and Experience
Any combination of education and experience that shall be substantially equivalent to the above education and experience.
Additional Required Qualifications
SPECIAL REQUIREMENT: At the time of appointment must be physically qualified to perform assigned duties as evidenced by a physician's certificate.
Knowledges Skills and Capacities
A working knowledge of the operation, maintenance and repair of high pressure steam boilers, stationary engines, turbines, generators, switchboards, transformers, motors and controls, blowers, pumps, compressors, ventilators, and other refrigerating, heating and generating equipment; a working knowledge of the safety precautions and practices necessary to work effectively around high pressure steam boilers and moving equipment; the ability to supervise and direct the work of employees in such a plant; and related capacities and abilities.
Preferred Qualifications
Position Details
FLSA
Non-Exempt
Full Time / Part Time
Full-time
Work Schedule
Full Time
40 hours/week
Thursday - Monday 2:00PM-11:00PM
Tuesday & Wednesday OFF
Academic or Calendar Year
Calendar
Benefits
Full-time employees enjoy an array of benefits including:
- Health and Wellness - Medical, Dental & Vision
- Wellness Incentives and Rewards
- Paid time Off - Vacation, Sick & Holiday
- Retirement Benefits
- Disability and Insurance Benefits
- Education Benefits - Tuition waivers for RIC, CCRI & URI
For a complete listing, visit
Employee Benefits.
Reports To (Title)
Manager, Campus Environmental Functions and Services
Position Status
Permanent - C
End of Restricted or Limited Position
Civil Service List
No
Union Code
classified
Salary Grade
318CA
Minimum Salary for Grade
$50,545
Maximum Salary for Grade
$55,928
Added Salary for This Position
$9.00/hr Trade Wage Stipend + $2.00/hr Shift Differential
Collective Bargaining Unit
Council 94 Local 2878
Posting Information
Number of Positions Available
1
Anticipated Start Date
06/12/2026
Application Open Date
Application Close Date
Special Instructions
At the time of appointment must be physically qualified to perform assigned duties as evidenced by a physician's certificate.
EEO Statement
Rhode Island College is an equal opportunity employer. The institution does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability religion, age, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law. Rhode Island College is committed to maintain a workplace and educational environment that supports equal opportunity, professionalism and respectful engagement for all community members.