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Utility Systems Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Utah

Systems Operator

Salt Lake City, UT

$26 - $33/hr

As part of our utilities team you will be helping to keep our entire campus heated and cooled year ... Responsibilities Utility Plant Operator, I Operate utility systems and equipment to maintain safe ...

University of Utah

Systems Operator

Campus, IL

$26 - $33/hr

As part of our utilities team you will be helping to keep our entire campus heated and cooled year ... Responsibilities Utility Plant Operator, I Operate utility systems and equipment to maintain safe ...

University of Utah

Systems Operator

Campus, IL

$26 - $33/hr

As part of our utilities team you will be helping to keep our entire campus heated and cooled year ... Responsibilities Utility Plant Operator, I Operate utility systems and equipment to maintain safe ...

University of Utah

Systems Operator

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$26 - $33/hr

As part of our utilities team you will be helping to keep our entire campus heated and cooled year ... Responsibilities Utility Plant Operator, I Operate utility systems and equipment to maintain safe ...

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Utility Systems Operator information

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$13

$26

$37

How much do utility systems operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility systems operator in the United States is $26.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Utility Systems Operator vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectUtility Systems OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and relevant certificationsRequires a high school diploma and water treatment certifications
Work EnvironmentOperates and maintains utility systems in various industriesWorks specifically in water treatment facilities
Industry UsageCommon in utilities, manufacturing, and energy sectorsPrimarily in municipal and industrial water treatment
Job FunctionsMaintains utility systems, monitors equipment, performs basic repairsOperates water treatment equipment, tests water quality, ensures safety standards

The Utility Systems Operator and Water Treatment Plant Operator roles share similarities in certifications and work environments, but differ mainly in industry focus and specific job functions. Utility Systems Operators have broader responsibilities across various utility systems, while Water Treatment Plant Operators specialize in water quality and treatment processes.

What is a utility systems operator?

Utility Systems Operators are professionals responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining the equipment and systems that provide essential utilities such as water, electricity, steam, or gas to buildings, industrial sites, or municipalities. They ensure these systems operate efficiently, safely, and in compliance with regulations. Their duties often include inspecting equipment, reading meters, troubleshooting issues, and making adjustments to optimize performance. Utility Systems Operators play a vital role in preventing outages, minimizing downtime, and ensuring the reliable delivery of utility services.

What are some common challenges faced by utility systems operators during shift work, and how can they be managed?

Utility Systems Operators often work in shifts to ensure around-the-clock operation of water, wastewater, or power systems. A common challenge is adapting to irregular hours, which can disrupt sleep patterns and work-life balance. To manage this, operators should prioritize healthy sleep routines, communicate with their team for smooth handovers, and stay vigilant during critical system checks. Many facilities offer support through rotating shifts or wellness programs to help operators maintain their well-being while meeting operational demands.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a utility systems operator?

To thrive as a Utility Systems Operator, you need a strong understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, water or wastewater treatment processes, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional technical training or certifications. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality testing equipment, and safety protocols is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are important soft skills for monitoring operations and responding to emergencies. These skills ensure reliable utility service, regulatory compliance, and safe, efficient system performance.
More about Utility Systems Operator jobs
Who are the top companies hiring for Utility Systems Operator jobs? The top employers for Utility Systems Operator jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Utility Systems Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Systems Operator jobs are:
Utility Systems Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Systems Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,276 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Systems Operator

University of Utah

Salt Lake City, UT

$26 - $33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

University Of Utah rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 159 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

382nd of 617 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Details
Open Date 05/19/2026 Requisition Number PRN45114B Job Title Systems Operator Working Title Utility Plant Operator Career Progression Track D Track Level FLSA Code Nonexempt Patient Sensitive Job Code? No Standard Hours per Week 40 Full Time or Part Time? Full Time Shift Day Work Schedule Summary
Rotation schedule /relief .
Graveyards -10:15 pm to 6:15 am, Thursday through Wednesday - off 4 days
Swings -2:15 pm to 10:15 pm, Monday through Sunday - off 2 days
Day - 6:15 am to 2:15 pm , Wednesday through Monday - off 1 day
VP Area President Department 01742 - Central Plant Location Campus City Salt Lake City, UT Type of Recruitment External Posting Pay Rate Range $26.00 hr - $33.00 hr Plus 10% shift diff on hours worked Close Date 08/19/2026 Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time) Job Summary

Looking for Utility Plant operator position from entry level to more experienced to join our utilities team taking care of and operating our main Heating and cooling plants Training and growth opportunities abound. As part of our utilities team you will be helping to keep our entire campus heated and cooled year-round . Operating large Boilers at high temperatures and pressures, as well as operation of a 6 MW turbine and campus monitoring. Additionally, you will learn how to perform simple to advanced maintenance and how to utilize our Building Automation System for operation and troubleshooting of our many systems.
As a member of the Facilities Management team, you will enjoy working in a stable Higher Education environment with plenty of opportunities to apply what you know while learning new skills. Do you have excellent customer service and problem-solving skills? Would you like to be challenged to take individual initiative in an environment that rewards your efforts with career growth opportunities? Many of the roles on the University of Utah's Facilities Management Team are casual dress, tools are provided, and you'll be working on resolving issues with experienced and knowledgeable team members who will help you build on the skills you bring to the team. This position offers health and vacation, and retirement benefits. Apply today!.
Learn more about the great benefits of working for University of Utah: benefits.utah.edu
The department may choose to hire at any of the below job levels and associated pay rates based on their business need and budget.
Responsibilities

Utility Plant Operator, I
Operate utility systems and equipment to maintain safe and efficient operation. Monitor system performance, identify issues, and perform routine maintenance. Assist with troubleshooting and repairing equipment malfunctions as directed. Follow safety protocols and documentation procedures. Work under direct supervision, completing tasks based on detailed instructions. Closely adhere to industry and university best practices and safety requirements. A current driver's license may be required.
Utility Plant Operator, II
Perform regular inspections, troubleshooting, and maintenance of utility systems independently. Manage routine equipment repairs and replacement to prevent downtime. Provide training and guidance to lower-level operators on procedures and safety protocols. Monitor system performance metrics and take corrective actions. Take on increased responsibilities for emergency response activities. Closely adhere to industry and university best practices and safety requirements. A current driver's license may be required.
Utility Plant Operator, III
Oversee daily operations of utility systems, ensuring adherence to safety standards and operational efficiency. Lead troubleshooting efforts and manage repair and maintenance schedules. Implement preventive maintenance programs to extend equipment life and reduce downtime. Coordinate with external vendors for equipment upgrades and repairs. Manage shift rotation schedules for junior operators and mentor lower-level staff. Closely adhere to industry and university best practices and safety requirements. A current driver's license may be required.
Minimum Qualifications

Four years of experience in HVAC operation, repair and maintenance or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience) and demonstrated human relations and effective communications skills are required. The ability to cooperate with other shop craftsman and staff is also required.
Knowledge of the Building Automation Systems is preferred.
Dependent upon department of assignment, a valid Utah driver's license may be required.
This position is not responsible for providing patient care.
Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.
Preferences Type Benefited Staff Special Instructions Summary Additional Information
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems ("URS"). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS' post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.
Veterans' preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran's status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator's office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah NonDiscrimination page.
Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu

https://publicsafety.utah.edu/safetyreport/ This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.
As per University of Utah policy 5-108: Transfer of Benefits Eligible Staff Members, a new hire to the University of Utah who is still serving a 12 month probationary period will not be hired into another University of Utah job (a transfer) until the successful completion of the probationary period.

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About University of Utah

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The University of Utah is the state’s flagship institution of higher education, with 18 schools and colleges, more than 100 undergraduate majors and graduate programs, and an enrollment of more than 38,000 students. It is a member of the Association of American Universities—an invitation-only, prestigious group of 71 leading research institutions. The U is advancing a new national model for higher education that delivers societal impact through education, research, health care, and community service, while making social, economic, and cultural contributions that improve lives across Utah and around the world.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Salt Lake City, UT, US

Year founded

1850

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