Department: Facilities Mgmt CH
Salary/Grade: 399/S6

Job Summary:

Reporting to and under the general direction of the Chief Operating Engineer, manages the safe and efficient operation of all Central Utility Plant systems and equipment including electrical, mechanical, plumbing, control systems, and limited associated utility distribution networks. Major equipment includes high-pressure steam boilers and auxiliaries, chemical treatment, pumps, switch gear, RO systems, generator, and control systems. This position ensures operation and maintenance of the systems and its equipment is performed and documented properly and in compliance with University policies and all applicable codes. Provides technical advice to senior management, administration, faculty, staff, and outside consultants relative to design, installation, operation, and repair of plant systems. The role will support the department’s mission and values by exhibiting the following: inclusiveness, respect, initiative, collaboration, innovation, and accountability. The incumbent will strive to provide excellent service when performing job responsibilities and will practice safe work procedures, and follow safety rules at all times.

Working Conditions: Must be a member of Operating Engineers Local 399, or join after a 90-day probationary period. Physical ability to lift and maneuver heavy weights, climb and descend ladders, and work in hot, cold, cramped and confined quarters.  Ability to work safely and at heights on ladders, lifts and scaffolding.  Dexterity necessary for the use of tools and manipulation of materials. Must be available and capable of responding to irregularities during evenings and weekends ensuring 24 hour, 7 day per week coverage.

Specific Responsibilities:

• Plans, directs, and coordinates maintenance operations of plant equipment, systems, and ancillary infrastructure to meet the established annual budget and reliability (uninterrupted operation) expectations;
• Organizes work for planned and unscheduled maintenance tasks directed to plant staff and supporting shops for efficient and effective performance while ensuring that adequate staff is available to respond to irregularities and/or emergencies;
• Maintains good order and discipline among personnel consistent with University and departmental policies, initiating commendatory or corrective action as appropriate;
• Prepares written and oral reports on the condition, renewal needs, and routine maintenance of facilities, components, and related activities including post-incident summaries and root cause analyses;
• Identifies and recommends employee safety, technical, soft-skill training, and professional development opportunities as required to ensure optimum unit performance and development;
• Ensures compliance with applicable EPA, IEPA, State Fire Marshal, MWRD, OSHA requirements, and other jurisdictional codes;
• Interviews and recommends hiring or promotion of qualified staff, and performs annual employee performance reviews of subordinate personnel;
• Actively participates in energy procurement process including spot-market and storage balancing;
• Participates in design and construction reviews for capital projects;
• Other duties as assigned;
• Must be available and capable of responding to irregularities during evenings and weekends ensuring 24 hour, 7 day per week coverage.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Minimum of two years of college in stationary, marine, mechanical engineering, or the equivalent combination of education and experience from which comparable skills can be acquired;
• Minimum five years supervisory experience in planning, directing, and coordinating the maintenance of industrial-grade utility plant systems and equipment;
• City of Chicago stationary engineer’s license;
• Experience with, and thorough understanding of the engineering theories associated with steam and refrigeration cycles.
• Knowledge of occupational hazards and recurring safety precautions;
• Mechanical aptitude and proven ability to maintain operating standards;
• Possess and maintain a valid driver’s license recognized by the State of Illinois, provide own reliable transportation, and purchase a University parking permit;
• Be a member of Operating Engineers Local 399, or join after a satisfactory completion of a 90-day probationary period.

Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)

• Knowledge of electrical distribution and safe working practices;
• Excellent written and oral communication skills;
• Exceptional customer relationship skills and the ability to establish effective working relationships in a diverse environment;
• Demonstrated leadership skills and ability to effectively motivate work groups toward defined and agreed upon common goals;
• Comprehensive knowledge of the tools, instruments, methods and standard trade/safety practices pertaining to mechanical, electrical, and plumbing;
• Ability to perform calculations applicable to field of experience;
• Working knowledge of NFPA, State, Local, and other associated building codes;
• Ability to understand and adhere to applicable compliance requirements including CAAPP and NPDES;
• Ability to review construction drawings and make recommendations that will conform to University standards as well as complying with all pertinent codes;
• Receptive to feedback, willing to learn, embracing continuous improvement;
• Helpful, respectful, approachable and team oriented.  Ability to build strong working relationships and a positive work environment;
• Seeks to build collaboration by encouraging trust, mutual respect and shared purpose;
• Balances listening and talking, speaks and writes clearly and accurately, keeps others informed;
• Integrates health and safety precautions into daily activities;
• Works effectively in an environment in which the parameters may change daily; adjusts behavior to meet the needs of different people and situations.
• Operating knowledge of DeltaV, pneumatic, and PLC control systems;
• Successfully uses multiple software program independently. Software may include Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Excel, and Outlook, CMMS Systems, and PeopleSoft;
• Proficiency with mobile devices including iOS.

Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)

• Facilitates open and effective communication, cooperation and teamwork within and outside of one's own team;
• Plans ahead, manages time well and arrives on time;
• Familiarity with zone maintenance models;
• Recommends improvements and opportunities to increase efficiency and reduce costs;
• Analytical skills including critical thinking, decision making, trouble shooting and problem solving, reading and interpreting technical drawings;
• Achieves a standard of excellence with work processes and outcomes, honoring University and Department policies and all regulatory requirements

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the United States.