Central Plant Operator (2nd Shift 2-10 PM)

Requisition # 2025-21178
Date Posted 6 hours ago(9/29/2025 12:54 PM)
Department
PPPL Facilities
Category
Facilities Management and Physical Plant
Job Type
Full-Time

Overview

Under supervision from the Lead Plant Operator, this position is a member of the Central Plant team charged with the operation, maintenance and repair of the central plant that provides heating and cooling to all buildings at C & D Sites throughout the PPPL campus. Supports the Central Plant Team in around-the-clock operations of the steam and chilled water central plant. Activities include repair, maintenance, and installation of mechanical equipment, and in the maintenance of buildings, grounds, and utility systems by performing the following duties Personally or through subordinate supervisors. 

 

A U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratory managed by Princeton University, the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is tackling the world’s toughest science and technology challenges using plasma, the fourth state of matter. With more than 70 years of history, PPPL is a leader in the science and engineering behind the development of fusion energy, a potentially limitless energy source. PPPL is also using its expertise to advance research in the areas of microelectronics, quantum sensors and devices, and sustainability sciences. Whether it be through science, engineering, technology or professional services, every team member has an opportunity to contribute to our mission and vision. Come join us!

Responsibilities

Core Duties: 

  • 65%- Operations: Operates the central boilers in accordance with the safety rules and regulations set forth by the State of New Jersey, Bureau of Boiler and Pressure Vessel compliance and all equipment within the central boiler plant. Follows all safety and environmental policies and
    procedures. Supports continuous operations of the steam and chilled water generation and distribution system for PPPL’s campus and experimental needs while complying with all local and state regulations.
  • 20%- Maintenance: Supports maintenance activities on plant systems to provide a continuous supply of steam and chilled water required for operations. Follows the preventive maintenance program in conjunction with Facilities engineering and maintenance staff. Maintains proper water
    conditions by testing, treatment, and blow-down of boilers. 
  • 5%- Monitoring and coordination: Monitor auxiliary plant systems, such as building automation system alarms, elevated water tower, and fuel oil supply tank etc. Communicate and coordinate with the supervisor. Maintains inventory and records of chemical usage.
  • 5%- Inspection: Inspection: Inspects operating machines and equipment for conformance with operational standards. Confers with supervisor to resolve maintenance problems and recommend measures to improve operations and conditions of machines and equipment. 
  • 5%- Training: Attend training classes to meet PPPL requirements, improve technical knowledge and organizational skills. 

Qualifications

Education and Experience: 

  • Minimum of three to five years of experience in steam plant operation and maintenance.
  • High school education or equivalent. Vocational or Tech school training in the area of Industrial Plumbing repair and maintenance preferred.
  • Experience interpreting and developing processes to comply with ES&H Directives, DOE Orders and OSHA standards.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

  • Has knowledge of, supports, and consistently applies the Laboratory’s Integrated Safety Management (ISM) program and all ES&H requirements.
  • Encourages others to be safety-conscious and observe safety rules, including the use of safety equipment.
  • Devotion toward safe work practices and an unwavering drive to integrate those methods into all work planned on site.
  • Understanding of underground utilities and their variations.
  • Experience with Siemens Building Automation Software (Desigo CC). 

Certificates and Licenses: 

  • Holds a New Jersey Operating Engineers License: Minimum of Blue Seal (3rd Class license).

Physical Requirements: 

  • Must be able to lift 25 lbs.
  • Must be able to stand for periods of time (min 2 hr).
  • Must be able to climb fixed and portable ladders.

Working Conditions: 

  • Ability to be on call, work overtime, off-shifts, weekends and holidays.

 

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

 

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

 

If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.

 

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.


Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from participation in certain foreign government talent recruitment programs. All PPPL employees are required to disclose any participation in a foreign government talent recruitment program and may be required to withdraw from such programs to remain employed under the DOE Contract.

Standard Weekly Hours

40.00

Eligible for Overtime

Yes

Benefits Eligible

Yes

Probationary Period

90 days

Essential Services Personnel (see policy for detail)

No

Physical Capacity Exam Required

Yes

Valid Driver's License Required

No

#LI-CL1

Salary Range

$62,000 to $93,000

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If you are a qualified individual with a disability and are, therefore, unable or limited in your ability to use or access this system, you can request a reasonable accommodation by contacting PPPL's Office of Human Resources at Onboarding@pppl.gov.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Princeton University-PPPL job offers are contingent upon the candidate’s successful completion of a background check, reference checks, and pre-employment screening, as applicable.

PPPL is a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) national laboratory managed by Princeton University. The DOE prohibits DOE employees and contractors from participation in certain foreign government talent recruitment programs. All PPPL employees are required to disclose any participation in a foreign government talent recruitment program and may be required to withdraw from such programs to remain employed under the DOE Contract.

Princeton University-PPPL is a residential community and an employer that operates continuously 24 hours a day. Essential services employees perform jobs that are necessary and required to maintain basic University operations during scheduled closures or unscheduled suspension of normal operations due to emergencies, events, or other situations. Essential services employees may be asked and/or required to perform jobs or duties that fall outside of their normal job classification during an emergency event. Learn more about our Essential Services policy.

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