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Plant Utilities Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

New York State

Plant Utilities Engineer 1

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$56K - $68K/yr

The Plant Utilities Engineer 1 operates, maintains, and repairs steam and hot water boilers, water supply, and return systems, electronic and pneumatic combustion and heating, ventilation, air ...

StateJobsNY

Plant Utilities Engineer 1

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$56K - $68K/yr

The Plant Utilities Engineer 1 operates, maintains, and repairs steam and hot water boilers, water supply, and return systems, electronic and pneumatic combustion and heating, ventilation, air ...

New York State

Plant Utilities Engineer 3

Albany, NY

$74K - $89K/yr

Duties Description The Plant Utilities Engineer 3 (PUE 3) holds the responsibility for the safe and efficient round-the-clock operation of the University at Albany's Heating Plant throughout the year.

StateJobsNY

Plant Utilities Engineer 3

Albany, NY · On-site

$74K - $89K/yr

Duties Description The Plant Utilities Engineer 3 (PUE 3) holds the responsibility for the safe and efficient round-the-clock operation of the University at Albany's Heating Plant throughout the year.

StateJobsNY

Plant Utilities Assistant

Binghamton, NY · On-site

$42K - $52K/yr

An assignment to the Central Heating Plant will involve assisting the Plant Utilities Engineers in the operation and maintenance of our coal/gas high temperature, hot water heating plant. An ...

New York State

Plant Utilities Assistant

Binghamton, NY · On-site

$42K - $52K/yr

An assignment to the Central Heating Plant will involve assisting the Plant Utilities Engineers in the operation and maintenance of our coal/gas high temperature, hot water heating plant. An ...

New York State

Plant Utilities Engineer 1

Delhi, NY · On-site

$56K/yr

... Plant Utilities Engineer 1. HVAC certificate OR Diploma, four (4) years full-time hands-on of qualifying experience Associate's degree and two (2) years of qualifying experience Satisfactory ...

StateJobsNY

Plant Utilities Engineer 1

Delhi, NY · On-site

$56K/yr

... Plant Utilities Engineer 1. HVAC certificate OR Diploma, four (4) years full-time hands-on of qualifying experience Associate's degree and two (2) years of qualifying experience Satisfactory ...

New York State

Plant Utilities Engineer 1

Newburgh, NY · On-site

$56K/yr

Under general supervision, the Plant Utilities Engineer 1 supports plant facilities that generate both cooling and heating systems and is responsible for several functions of plant operations at the ...

StateJobsNY

Plant Utilities Engineer 1

Newburgh, NY · On-site

$56K/yr

Under general supervision, the Plant Utilities Engineer 1 supports plant facilities that generate both cooling and heating systems and is responsible for several functions of plant operations at the ...

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Plant Utilities Engineer information

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$11K

$59.5K

$70K

How much do plant utilities engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant utilities engineer in the United States is $59,526.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,500.00 and $59,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Plant Utilities Engineer vs Mechanical Technician?

AspectPlant Utilities EngineerMechanical Technician
CertificationsHVAC, boiler, and plant operation licensesTrade certifications, such as HVAC or mechanical repair
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, power plants, large facilitiesMaintenance shops, industrial sites, manufacturing plants
Job FocusOperating and maintaining plant utilities like HVAC, boilers, and water systemsRepairing and maintaining mechanical equipment and systems

The Plant Utilities Engineer and Mechanical Technician roles often overlap in certifications and work environments, but the engineer focuses more on operating and managing utility systems, while the technician emphasizes mechanical repairs and maintenance. Both roles are essential in industrial and large facility settings, with the engineer typically overseeing system performance and the technician executing repairs.

What is a plant utilities engineer?

Plant Utilities Engineers are professionals responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing the utility systems that support large facilities or manufacturing plants. These systems typically include heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), boilers, steam and water distribution, and sometimes electrical and refrigeration systems. Their main role is to ensure that all utility services run efficiently, safely, and reliably to minimize downtime and support overall plant operations. They may also monitor system performance, troubleshoot issues, and help implement energy-saving initiatives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a plant utilities engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Plant Utilities Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, typically supported by a relevant degree and professional certification or licensure. Familiarity with systems such as HVAC, boilers, chillers, and building automation, as well as proficiency in maintenance management software, is usually required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient plant operations and rapid response to technical issues, directly impacting facility reliability and productivity.

What are some common challenges plant utilities engineers face when managing facility systems?

Plant Utilities Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining aging infrastructure, ensuring compliance with strict environmental and safety regulations, and responding quickly to unexpected equipment failures. Balancing preventive maintenance with urgent repairs can be demanding, especially in facilities that operate around the clock. Effective communication and collaboration with maintenance teams, contractors, and facility managers are essential to address these challenges and keep utility systems running efficiently.

What does a plant utilities engineer do?

A plant utilities engineer maintains and operates the mechanical equipment of a utilities plant. The duties you have in this career are dependent upon the plant at which you are working. Generally, a plant utilities engineer calibrates machines for proper output, test machines and troubleshoot issues with the equipment, and repairs any damage that may occur. Some plant utilities engineers perform general work, while others may specialize in an area, such as electrical work, plumbing, or air control systems. A plant engineer may also be required to train new hires on the maintenance of their specific machines.

More about Plant Utilities Engineer jobs
Who are the top companies hiring for Plant Utilities Engineer jobs? The top employers for Plant Utilities Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Plant Utilities Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Plant Utilities Engineer jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Plant Utilities Engineer jobs? For Plant Utilities Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Plant Utilities Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Utilities Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,526 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Plant Utilities Engineer 2

SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University

Brooklyn, NY • On-site

$63K - $76K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description


Distinguishing Characteristics
Plant Utilities Engineer 1
Reports to a higher-level Plant Utilities Engineer or trades supervisor
Responsible for the operation, repair, and maintenance of HVAC, mechanical, and boiler systems
May supervise Plant Utilities Assistants, Facility Operations Assistants, trades staff, and contractors
May assume responsibility for plant operations during off-hours or emergencies
Plant Utilities Engineer 2
Supervises Plant Utilities Engineers 1 and other lower-level staff
May function as a shift supervisor in large facilities
May supervise trades and contractors for specific projects or emergency work
May assume off-hours operational responsibility
Plant Utilities Engineer 3
Plans, directs, and coordinates plant operations in moderately sized facilities or major areas in large facilities
Supervises Plant Utilities Engineers 2 and other lower-level staff
May supervise ancillary services (cleaning, transportation, security) in small facilities
May serve as assistant to a Plant Utilities Engineer 4 or Plant Superintendent C
Plant Utilities Engineer 4
Oversees utility operations in the largest and most complex facilities
May include responsibility for high voltage electrical systems
May serve as assistant to a Plant Superintendent A or B
Related Classes
Plant Utilities Assistants: Semiskilled support under direction of Plant Utilities Engineers
Plant Superintendents: Administrative managers of physical plant and maintenance operations
Maintenance Supervisors: Oversee skilled, semiskilled, and unskilled maintenance and repair teams
Illustrative Tasks
Plant Utilities Engineer 1
Operate and maintain steam/hot water boilers, HVAC systems, chillers, and related equipment
Conduct systems testing, add chemicals, and maintain equipment cleanliness
Maintain computerized energy management systems and troubleshoot malfunctions
Respond to HVAC, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical emergencies
Perform chiller, pump, compressor, and motor repairs and maintenance
Identify and support energy conservation initiatives
May handle hazardous materials and respond to environmental incidents
May operate electrical distribution systems and emergency power systems
Supervise Plant Utilities Assistants, Facility Operations Assistants, and contractors
Plant Utilities Engineer 2
Supervise Plant Utilities Engineers 1 and lower-level staff
Schedule and direct daily operations and repair activities
Train staff and improve operational efficiency
Inspect plant operations and ensure safety and compliance
Order materials, tools, and equipment
Manage hazardous materials and incident response
Identify and recommend budget and staffing needs
Enforce and implement energy efficiency measures
Plant Utilities Engineer 3
Supervise Plant Utilities Engineers 2, other staff, and contractors
Coordinate safety, energy conservation, and systems maintenance
Review contractor documents and oversee project execution
Develop training, operations procedures, and technical documentation
Monitor quality control and keep operations records
Direct hazardous materials response
Recommend operating budgets and staffing
May oversee all plant operations in small facilities
Plant Utilities Engineer 4
Perform all duties of a Plant Utilities Engineer 3
Supervise Plant Utilities Engineers 3 and larger teams in the most complex facilities
Manage large-scale or critical utility systems
May assist a Plant Superintendent A or B
Qualifications
Plant Utilities Engineer 1 Open Competitive: four years of experience in the operation, maintenance, and repair of boilers, HVAC, or auxiliary plant utilities equipment in commercial, industrial, or institutional facilities.
Plant Utilities Engineer 2
Promotion:
One year of permanent service as a Plant Utilities Engineer 1.
Plant Utilities Engineer 3
Promotion:
One year of permanent service as a Plant Utilities Engineer 2.
Plant Utilities Engineer 4
Promotion:
One year of permanent service as a Plant Utilities Engineer 3

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