Cogeneration Operator

NOTIFICATIONS

The starting hourly salary for this position is Step 1.0 $54.10. Upon successfully completing the 6 month probation period, the hourly salary will increase to Step 2.0 $60.13.

This is a night shift position, Midnight to Noon, 7 days on, 7 days off.

HOW TO APPLY

For full consideration, applicants should attach their resume and cover letter when applying for a job opening. For guidance related to the application process or if you are experiencing difficulties when applying, please review the Applicant Resources on our website.

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INITIAL REVIEW DATE (IRD)

UC Santa Cruz jobs are posted until filled. All application materials submitted by 11:59 pm on the IRD will be routed to the hiring team for consideration. NOTE: Applicants who miss the IRD are still encouraged to apply; their materials will still be forwarded for consideration if requested by the hiring team. Application materials cannot be accepted outside of the jobs portal. Applications cannot be edited on an applicant's behalf. For more information about the IRD and the applicant review process, view this link.

The IRD for this job is: 2/16/2026

ABOUT UC SANTA CRUZ

UC Santa Cruz is a public university like no other in California, combining the experience of a small, liberal arts college with the depth and rigor of a major research university. It's known as an unconventional place where innovation and experimentation is part of the campus's DNA. That playful, bold spirit still thrives today, all on a campus renowned as among the most beautiful in the world.

DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

Physical Planning, Development & Operations (PPDO) manages and oversees all University activities and services related to physical and environmental planning, design and construction, engineering, physical plant maintenance and operations, capital and space planning, space management, and the associated business services necessary to support these functions. The University's main campus is spread across more than 2,000 acres and includes over 500 buildings comprising more than 8 million square feet. The department oversees operating budgets of over $60 million, manages a project portfolio of approximately $990 million, and employs over 400 full-time staff to carry out the duties necessary for campus development and operation.

More information can be found at: https://ppdo.ucsc.edu/physical-plant/building-utilities-and-fleet-services/cogeneration-shop/

JOB SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Cogen Shop Supervisor, the Cogeneration Operator operates and maintains the campus central heating, central condensing, cogeneration plant, the campus swimming facility, and campus energy management and monitoring system on an assigned shift. Routine duties include operation of high-voltage (12KV) switchgear, starting and stopping of the cogeneration unit, paralleling operations of the cogeneration engine with the utility (PG&E), operation of gas-fired boilers, gas compressors, propane backup system, cooling towers, and automated pumping and piping systems related to the operation of the plant.

APPOINTMENT INFORMATION

Budgeted Salary: $54.10/hour. Salary commensurate with skills, qualifications and experience.
Under California law, the University of California, Santa Cruz is required to post a reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role. The salary shown above is the budgeted amount the University reasonably expects to pay and the salary extended should not exceed this posted amount.

Shift Differential: 100% of the time - additional $3/hour for a qualifying night shifts

Benefits Level Eligibility: Full benefits

Schedule Information:

• Full-time, Fixed
• Percentage of Time: 100%, 40 Hours per Week
• Days of the Week: Mon-Sun 7 days on, 7 days off
• Shift Includes: Nights, Weekends

Employee Classification: Career appointment

Job End Date: None

Work Location: UC Santa Cruz Main Campus

Union Representation: K7 union

Job Code Classification: 008094 (COGEN OPR)

Travel: Up to 25% of the time

JOB DUTIES

50% - Plant Operations

• Inspects, operates, and maintains stationary power plant equipment, including natural gas-fueled engine generators, gas-fired hot water boilers, air compressors, natural gas compressors, propane backup system with vaporizer, hydronic pumping systems, cooling towers, heat exchangers, commercial swimming pool equipment, and related automation systems that operate the equipment.
• Operates and repairs auxiliary systems, including pumps, boilers, cooling towers, and heat exchangers in conjunction with the cogeneration plant.
• Monitors heating/cooling requirements for campus central core buildings to ensure efficient equipment utilization and operation.
• Places the cogeneration plant online and in parallel with PG&E.
• Monitors and controls load changes on the campus critical feeder and high voltage distribution system.
• Assists campus electricians and mechanics in instances of stand-alone operation of the plant by determining maximum loads (both electrical and cooling) the plant can carry when separated from PG&E.
• Operates high voltage 12 kV breakers safely using proper PPE to maintain the campus electrical system under normal and emergency situations.
• Operates Wonderware, Tridium energy management, and SCADA central control systems to monitor and control various mechanical and electrical equipment throughout campus.
• Identifies repair needs of heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) machinery in buildings throughout the campus through the remote monitoring and control system.
• Verifies necessary repairs of equipment throughout campus after hours.
• Makes assigned repairs in the plant and at remote locations as necessary, which involves driving a University vehicle to all areas of the campus, using standard test equipment and tools without supervision, and utilizing procedure manuals and instruction manuals (campus and manufacturer) written in English.
• Maintains records of plant operating data on a shift and an assigned basis.
• Orders oil and chemicals based on available storage, takes delivery of fuel, oil, and chemical loads per safe fuel handling procedures, utilizing a forklift when necessary.
• Receives and responds to campus complaints regarding heating, ventilating, and air conditioning.
• Dispatches appropriate individuals for emergency repairs, as needed.
• Acts as a liaison with the Campus Disaster Team regarding the operation of the plant in emergencies.

40% - Maintenance and Repair

• Inspects, operates, and repairs equipment from ladders, scaffolds, stairs, in confined spaces, and in proximity to loud machinery.
• Performs assigned and preventive maintenance and emergency repairs on all equipment, lubricating, changing filters, belts, couplings, bearings, mechanical seals, checking alignments, analyzing system operating parameters, and making repairs to rotating machinery.
• Cleans heat exchangers and cooling towers on an as-needed basis.
• Performs water treatment and testing on plant water systems, including heating hot water, condensing water, cooling towers, soft water systems, and swimming pools.
• Maintains swimming pool filter and pumping system by safely lifting, dumping, or mixing (with or without accommodation) 25-100 lbs. of chemicals (either liquid or solid) into storage tanks or feeders in correct proportions.
• Operates pool sanitation systems such as a calcium hypochlorite feed system, muriatic acid, or ozone generator.
• Assists with pool filter cleaning and repair.
• Assists with troubleshooting problems and makes repairs when necessary.
• Actively searches for and promotes ways to improve the work environment, including improvements to customer service, implementing change when needed.

10% - Safety and Communications

• Performs cleaning and painting inside the plant and as assigned.
• Performs safety inspections and maintains equipment used by shop personnel.
• Attends safety and training classes and follows all product and University-specific safety procedures when using tools and equipment.
• Monitors plant security and implements changes as directed.
• Adheres to University policies and procedures, including safety rules.
• Reports safety, project integrity, or security issues immediately.
• Writes and maintains a weekly timesheet.
• Employs interpersonal skills when interacting with members of the campus community.
• Assists in maintaining an inventory of shop materials, supplies, and tools by informing supervisor of specific needs.
• Accurately reads various meters on a daily and monthly basis for billing and reporting purposes.
• Schedules equipment for after-hours operation, as needed by customers.
• Responds to campus callouts after normal hours, weekends, and holidays.
• Works a temporary alternative schedule or shift (e.g., night shift) as requested by supervisor.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in related area / or equivalent experience and / or training.
• Experience working within University setting.
• Working knowledge of advising techniques.
  Knowledge of google suites, with the ability and willingness to learn and use new computer programs/applications.
• Solid written communication skills.
• Solid verbal communication skills sufficient to convey and disseminate information clearly, concisely, effectively and accurately.
• Solid Customer Service skills.
• Knowledge and experience in the operation and maintenance of gas turbine generators and related equipment, including parallel operations with a utility (i.e. PG&E).
• Knowledge and experience in the start-up, maintenance, and repair of power plant equipment such as gas-fired boilers, pumps, valves, compressors, cooling towers, fans, and control systems.
• Experience in and ability to operate and work in close proximity to rotating equipment and medium voltage (12KV) switchgear.
• Knowledge and experience in the testing and treatment of heating plant water systems, including hot water, cooling tower, swimming pool, and soft water systems.
• Ability to read and understand procedure manuals, system schematics, and blueprints.
• Experience in the use of a personal computer for logging plant records, maintaining data files, and writing business communications.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment especially in stressful or crisis situations.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to work individually or as part of a team.
• Interpersonal skills sufficient to interact and work effectively with all members of the campus community.
• Willingness to work safely with hazardous chemicals or gases used in an industrial environment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Knowledge and experience with a Solar Mercury 50 Turbine generator.
• Experience in the operation of a supervisory central control system (i.e. Wonderware, Tridium).
• Experience in the replacement and rebuilding of pump seals and bearings.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Selected candidate will be required to pass a pre-employment criminal history background check.
• Selected candidate must pass the employment misconduct disclosure process.
• Must possess a valid license to drive in the state of California and participate in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) pull notice program.
• Ability to work long periods of time at a computer with or without accommodation.
• Ability to work in conditions of variable temperature/weather with possible exposure to strong, unpleasant odors, high levels of noise and vibrations, and exposure to dust and allergens.
• Ability to ascend/descend ladders with or without accommodation.
• Ability to ascend/descend ladders, scaffolds, stairs, and work in confined spaces and in proximity to loud machinery.
• Ability to safely perform the physical requirements necessary to move light to moderate objects up to 60 lbs., with or without accommodation.
• Ability to occasionally work overtime with little or no advance notice.
• Ability to respond to emergencies after hours as necessary.
• Ability to move heavy sacks of materials and move liquid drums by making judgment to do so safely or by using the assistance of co-workers.
• Ability to reach above shoulder level.
• Ability to differentiate colors and utilize senses (sight, hearing, touch, feel, and smell) to monitor plant operation.
• The position works in a wide variety of environments. As such, the position requires: 1) the ability to sit for prolonged periods of time, 2) ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally, 3) ability to conduct outdoor site visits, including use of required personal protective equipment, as required to conduct investigations, inspections, or repairs, 4) ability to sustain exposure to dusty, noisy environments and inclement weather as necessary to carry out assigned duties and responsibilities.
• Work scheduled overtime, and be available for emergency overtime when the need arises by responding to overtime call-outs before and after standard scheduled hours of work.
• Work a temporary alternative schedule or shift as requested by supervisor.
• Selected candidate will be required to complete training within established time frames as directed including UC compliance training.
• The University of California has implemented a Vaccination Policy covering all employees. Employees, including new hires, are required to comply with any applicable policies relating to the University of California vaccine program.
• Per the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA), this position has been identified as a Mandated Reporter. The selected candidate will be required to report known or suspected child abuse or neglect as defined by CANRA and will be required to sign a Statement Acknowledging Requirement to Report Child Abuse prior to commencing employment. CANRA Penal Codes, and related definitions, requirements, and responsibilities may be obtained here.

MISCONDUCT DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENT

As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC's policies addressing some forms of misconduct:
  • UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
  • UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
  • Abusive Conduct in the Workplace

SAFETY STATEMENT

All UCSC employees must understand and follow job safety procedures, attend required health and safety training, proactively promote safety at work, and promptly report actual and potential accidents and injuries.

NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY

EEO/AA

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected categories covered by the UC Anti-Discrimination Policy.

It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.