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Steam Fireman II (First-Class Fireman)
Job no: 509460
Work type: Staff
Location: Amherst
Categories: On Site, Facilities Maintenance & Trades, Full Time, AFSCME
Title: Steam Fireman II (First-Class Fireman)
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 Steam Fireman II 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 assigned. This is a benefitted, one-year, temporary position.
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, troubleshooting, 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, fuel oil and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG).
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.
Understand and utilize the Central Heating Plant computerized maintenance management system.
Utilize safe working habits, identifies hazards and takes corrective actions.
Understands, is committed to, and supports affirmative actions and non-discrimination goals.
Performs all duties necessary to fulfill Central Heating Plant requirements.
Perform routine rounds of the Reverse Osmosis (RO) Trailer.
Operates motor vehicles to travel to work sites.
Other Functions
Performs other duties and work tasks as assigned by the Lead Operator and/or Maintenance Manager.
Minimum Qualifications
Possession of a First-Class Stationary Fireman's license issued by the Massachusetts Department of Public Safety pursuant to Chapter 146 of the Massachusetts General Laws.
Possession of a valid class D driver's license.
Ability to read and write effectively in English and to do basic mathematics.
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 slugs.
Ability to locate, trouble-shoot, and adjust defects in mechanical equipment and/or 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 of computerized maintenance management systems.
Must be able to use ladders and industrial trucks, and physically fit to perform heavy work and be certified to wear a respirator.
Possession of a Grade 2-1 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. Individual must obtain this qualification within the first year of employment.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with gas turbine operations.
High School Diploma.
Additional Details
This position is subject to final budgetary and administrative approval.
Working Conditions
Work is performed in indoor and/or outdoor athletic facilities and venues. May require travel to competitions, lifting and transporting equipment, prolonged standing, and walking during practices, games, and recruiting activities.
Work Schedule and Work Arrangement
Rotating schedule including weekends.
This is a benefitted, one-year, temporary position.
Salary Information
Pay Grade: AFSCME Grade 17
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: 11 Sep 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 11 Nov 2026 Eastern Standard Time
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