Plant Utilities Assistant - Multiple Positions

The Department of Facilities Management and Development at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University is seeking a full-time Plant Utilities Assistant.

Distinguishing Characteristics 

Plant Utilities Assistants are semiskilled employees who perform routine, repetitive tasks in the operation, maintenance, and repair of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and mechanical equipment inside and outside physical plants. This includes equipment such as stationary steam or high-temperature hot water boilers. Incumbents may also perform journey-level activities under supervision or after receiving detailed instructions to build their skills.

Plant Utilities Assistants typically work under the supervision of a Plant Utilities Engineer 1 or another higher-level plant utilities position. In turn, they may supervise Facility Operations Assistants 1 (Utilities) and related labor class roles.

Illustrative Tasks

• Console Monitoring and Reporting

• Monitor equipment consoles and adjust controls as needed

• Analyze console readings, logs, charts, and respond to trouble calls

• Record gas, steam, water, and electric meter readings

• Complete logs, incident reports, and quality assurance forms

• Notify supervisor of necessary repairs

• Receive and distribute fuel to all program sites

• Preventive Maintenance

• Assist with HVAC preventive maintenance tasks under supervision

• Use treatment chemicals for water systems

• Clean strainers and coils

• Maintain steam traps

• Change air filters

• Regenerate water softeners

• Install and remove window AC units

• Check refrigerant levels, identify type and prepare system for recharge

• Minor Repairs and Mechanical Assistance

• Replace worn gaskets and belts

• Tighten joints

• Assist in overhauling boilers and maintaining stationary equipment

• Plumbing, Electrical, and Refrigeration Tasks

• Rebuild or repair water regulator valves

• Thread, solder, glue, and install piping

• Repack pumps and valves

• Assist with plant alarm and signal systems

• Help monitor building management systems including HVAC and boiler controls

• Clean mechanical rooms 

• On nights, weekends, or holidays, respond to urgent mechanical, plumbing, or electrical problems 

• Provide guidance and instruction to Facility Operations Assistants 1 (Utilities) and other labor class workers on routine tasks and equipment inspections