State of Connecticut Executive Branch

At the University of Connecticut this class is for receiving on-the-job training in the operations, monitoring and maintenance of the cogeneration power plant.

Works under the general supervision of a Lead Power Plant Operator or other employee of higher grade.

• Receives on-the-job training to perform tasks as outlined for the Power Plant Operator 1; 
• Assists in the operation, monitoring and maintaining of multiple power plant equipment for safe operation and production of high pressure superheated steam, electrical power and chilled water to meet energy needs; 
• Tours power plant to check and ensure reliable operation of equipment and to detect faculty or erratic operation of systems through excessive vibration, abnormal noises, extreme temperatures and/or leakages; 
• Monitors gauges and other devices to standards and records performance indicators on log deficiency report; 
• Coordinates equipment abnormalities and assists in diagnosis with the control room Power Plant Operator 2; 
• Performs preventative maintenance repairs; 
• Performs related duties as required.

• Knowledge of
  • general industrial or manufacturing operations, maintenance and repair of mechanical equipment; 
  • industrial instrumentation and control systems; 
  • arithmetic functions including algebra and geometry; 
• Skills
  • interpersonal skills; 
  • oral and written communication skills; 
• Ability to
  • read and interpret schematic diagrams; 
  • utilize computer software.

Experience in an industrial or manufacturing setting to include the operation, maintenance and repair of mechanical equipment.

NOTE: Based on an individual’s technical experience, the length of credited service will be determined at the discretion of facility management.

• Graduation from a vocational or technical school with a diploma in a program related to mechanical equipment, mechanical engineering or related field may be substituted for the General Experience.
• College training in mechanical engineering or a related field may be substituted for the General Experience.  Experience on the basis of fifteen (15) semester hours equalling one-half (1/2) year of experience.

• Incumbents in this class must have adequate physical strength, stamina, physical agility and visual and auditory acuity, and must maintain such physical fitness as to be able to perform the duties.
• A physical examination may be required.

Incumbents in this class may be required to lift moderate to heavy weights, use protective equipment such as respirators and safety goggles and may be exposed to significant levels of noise, dust, heat and risk of injury from equipment and/or environmental conditions.

An employee may be appointed to this class for a period normally not to exceed two (2) years. Incumbents in the Power Plant Operator Trainee class who do not successfully complete the training period and/or acquire the required skills and knowledge may not advance to the Power Plant Operator 1 class.