Steam Plant Operator (SR) - Facilities Services - UTK

University of Tennessee Athletic Marketing Department

University of Tennessee Athletic Marketing Department

Operations

Knoxville, TN, USA

Posted on May 19, 2026

The Senior Steam Plant Operator is responsible for analyzing problems and taking appropriate actions to ensure continuous and reliable operation of equipment and systems. This person will monitor and inspect equipment, computer terminals, switches, valves, gauges, alarms, safety devices, and meters to detect leaks or malfunctions and to ensure that equipment is operating efficiently and safely. This person will observe and interpret readings on gauges, meters, and charts registering various aspects of boiler operation to ensure that boilers are operating properly. This person will also monitor boiler water, chemical, and fuel levels, and make adjustments to maintain required levels. Having the ability to light off boilers and other associated equipment to maintain safe operating conditions is required for this role.

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees—the Volunteers—who uphold the university’s tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service.

UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee’s flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy’s largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.

UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices to attract and retain top-tier talent, fostering a strong staff community and supporting a culture of involvement and engagement for everyone.

The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as “Best Employer for New Graduates,” “One of America’s Best Large Employers,” and “Best Workplace for Women,” and has been designated as “Best Place for Working Parents” by Forbes Magazine.

Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community!
The Senior Steam Plant Operator is responsible for analyzing problems and taking appropriate actions to ensure continuous and reliable operation of equipment and systems. This person will monitor and inspect equipment, computer terminals, switches, valves, gauges, alarms, safety devices, and meters to detect leaks or malfunctions and to ensure that equipment is operating efficiently and safely. This person will observe and interpret readings on gauges, meters, and charts registering various aspects of boiler operation to ensure that boilers are operating properly. This person will also monitor boiler water, chemical, and fuel levels, and make adjustments to maintain required levels. Having the ability to light off boilers and other associated equipment to maintain safe operating conditions is required for this role.

Required Qualifications

  • Education: High school diploma or GED
  • Experience: Three (3) years of relevant experience
  • Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
    • A good working knowledge of the complete operation of a steam plant and use of steam system.
    • Skills and ability to keep boilers and equipment running efficiently.
    • The ability to perform work under stress for long periods.
    • Knowledge of plant operation codes and safety codes.

  • Other Conditions: Valid Driver’s license

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Vocational or Technical Training
  • 3 - 5 years of related job experience.
  • Ability to operate gas and oil fired boilers, feed water pumps, condensate pumps, turbine generator and complete knowledge of steam plant operations.

Work Location

  • University of Tennessee – Knoxville, TN Campus
  • This is an on-site position

Compensation and Benefits

  • UT market range: MR09
  • Find more information on the UT Market Range structure here
  • Find more information on UT Benefits here

About the Department

UT Facilities Services is responsible for the care and keeping of more than 300 facilities and utilities systems in and around Knoxville. As the University of Tennessee Knoxville’s largest non-academic department, team members are responsible for facilities maintenance and repair, custodial needs, landscaping and lawncare, utility work, in-house and capital construction projects, facilities planning and design, environmental initiatives, pest control, campus event services, and facilities administration functions for both the flagship campus and the agricultural institute. The Facilities Services staff provides around-the-clock coverage to ensure students, staff, faculty, and fans have a consistent and positive experience every time they step foot on Rocky Top.

  • Observe and interpret readings on gauges, meters, and charts registering various aspects of boiler operation to ensure that boilers are operating safely and properly.
  • Make adjustments when necessary to maintain boilers and all associated equipment.
  • Make skillful decisions based on knowledge and experience.
  • Perform diagnostics to maintain systems for continuous operations on campus.
  • Interact with students, faculty, staff, and the general public in a courteous, professional, and inclusive manner.
  • Must be able to light off boilers and take boilers off line safely according to manufacturer guidelines.
  • Start additional equipment when needed to ensure the plant is operating correctly.
  • Report job information to supervision including any repairs, issues, deficiencies or needed parts to correct a problem or potential issue of boiler systems.
  • Report any unsafe practices or conditions discovered in a timely manner.
  • Take readings on boilers, turbine, and associated equipment to maintain logs according to EPA guidelines.
  • Assist in the preparation of special maintenance events as assigned.
  • Responsible for the training of fellow staff on systems and boiler operation.
  • Study technical manuals and equipment information to improve knowledge and understanding of all the campus steam and boiler systems and associated equipment.
  • Take available classes and training online and from vendors to stay up to date on the latest maintenance and control strategies and technology.
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