Plant Operator Assistant

Job Description

Plant Operator Assistant operates all ash removal and related equipment. Assists plant operator with the operation of coal gas and oil-fired boilers auxiliary equipment and air pollution control equipment. Operates boilers and turbo-generators for training purposes and during emergency conditions. Performs preventive maintenance on plant equipment including lubrication. Assists in water handling and testing including operating reverse osmosis units the regeneration of condensate polishers and domestic softeners. Operates loader and coal delivery systems as required.

Required Qualifications

Demonstrated mechanical experience and/or completed course work in mechanical/HVAC/process instrumentation.
American Society of Power Engineers Power Plant 3rd Class (PO3) or equivalent or must obtain within 18 months of employment into position.
Ability to learn and perform water analysis and softener regeneration procedures.
Ability to interpret instructions and complete assignments as part of a team.
Ability to key and record data.
Ability to work shift work.
Ability to safely frequently and independently move and handle (including pushing/pulling) items weighing up to 50 pounds.
Ability to climb steps and ladders up to four stories.
Ability to work in confined spaces in extreme heat and dusty environments.
Though work is performed primarily indoors must be able to work outside in all weather conditions.
Work may require bending crouching and/or kneeling standing sitting and walking for up to one-hour duration at a time.

Preferred Qualifications

Previous experience in a power plant and/or with high pressure boiler related experience.
Courses taken in mechanical/HVAC/process instrumentation and/or steam boiler operation.

Pay Band

2

Overtime Status

Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Regular

Salary Information

$40000 - $45000; commensurate with experience

Hours per week

40

Review Date

May 11 2026

Additional Information

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future sponsorship.

This position has been designated by the university as essential to university operations. As emergency personnel you will be required to report to work during emergency situations and authorized closings.

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its mottoUt Prosim(That I May Serve) Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world Virginia Tech is aninclusive communitydedicated to knowledge discovery and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36000 undergraduate graduate and professional students in eightundergraduate colleges aschool of medicine aveterinary medicinecollegeGraduate School andHonors College.The university has a significant presence across Virginia including Blacksburg the greater Washington D.C. area the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke sites in Newport News and Richmond and numerousExtension officesandresearch institutes.A leading global research institution Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.