Mechanical Systems Operator, Facilities Services (2243)

Thank you for your interest in positions at Idaho State University. Once you have applied, the most updated information on the status of your application can be found by logging into your profile and reviewing your status. For answers to additional questions, please review our frequently asked questions.

Mechanical Systems Operator, Facilities Services (2243)
Pocatello - Main
NOT eligible for remote work, on-campus position

Institution Information

Idaho State University, established in 1901, is a Carnegie-classified doctoral research and teaching institution, with a culture built on trust, compassion, stability, and hope. ISU serves over 12,000 students in Pocatello, Meridian, Twin Falls, and Idaho Falls. Students and faculty at ISU are leading the way in cutting-edge research and innovative solutions. We are proud to offer exceptional academics nestled in the grand, natural beauty of the West. We invite you to apply to be a part of our University community!

Job Description

To operate and maintain high-pressure boilers, chillers, and related equipment; perform related work.

This position is not eligible for new visa sponsorship at this time. Candidates who already hold valid U.S. work authorization may be considered.

Examples of Duties

1. Mechanical systems operation.

• Inspects heating equipment: checks fans, valving and piping, gauges, sight glasses and indication lights.
• Insures proper operation of feed and return water pumps, sump and chemical pumps, water softeners, internal and external boiler components, electrical systems, and burners.
• Maintains burner firing and fuel ratio control.
• Boiler operation: maintains water level, steam pressure, proper deaeration tank operation, rotation of water and chemical pumps, and start-up and shut-down of boilers.
• Maintains fuel system components.
• Regulates continuous blowdown, blowdown water columns, top and bottom drums, and wall water boxes.
• Blows water tubes in boiler with high-pressure steam and soot blowers to remove carbon deposits.
• Water treatment: mixes chemicals.
• Tests water condition for dissolved solids, "P", "M", and "O", alkalinity, sulfite, and pH levels.
• Regulates chemical feed.
• Maintains chemical usage information, boiler performance logs, recorder charts, and gas usage data.
• Repairs drains and tubes.
• Takes flow readings of water loops and air velocities in ducts to balance HVAC systems.
• Monitors building automation and fire control systems and makes computer commands to start and stop fans, pumps, and related devices.
• Monitors/repairs geothermal pumps and production, and injection systems.
• Maintains heat exchangers, sand traps, injection wells, check valves, and pneumatic and automatic piping systems.

2. Maintenance.

• Performs preventive maintenance on heat plant system.
• Overhauls boilers.
• Descales and repairs steam traps and expansion joints.
• Cleans, lubricates and adjusts valves.
• Inspects pump controls and fans.
• Cleans areas in and around heating plant.
• Paints walls, tanks, and stairways.
• Performs preventive maintenance checks on fire extinguishers and fire control systems.
• Checks for leaks in steam and condensate lines.
• Cleans and changes filters and air handler on air conditioners and swamp coolers.
• Performs routine maintenance plumbing.
• Assists other maintenance staff performing their duties.

Minimum Qualifications

Good knowledge of:

• The firing, operation, and maintenance of high-pressure steam boilers, chillers, and related systems and equipment
• Heat transfer as it relates to heat plant steam generation
• High-pressure steam fitting

Experience:

• Detecting and repairing malfunctions in boiler and chiller equipment
• Chemically treating water for proper conditioning
• Operating, dismantling, and maintaining boilers, pumps, valves, air conditioners, chillers and related systems

Specialty Requirements - These positions at ISU require the following:

• Valid driver's license.
• Respond to emergency call-backs.
• Successful completion of both a physical exam, including cardiopulmonary function testing and chest x-ray, as well as a respirator fit test.

Supplemental Information

These positions involve lifting and carrying items weighing approximately 90 pounds, working in a noisy environment, bending, stooping, and crawling in and around confined spaces.

Additional Information

ISU minimum for this classification is $17.25/hour, commensurate with education and experience. To be considered for this opportunity, apply on or before October 29, 2026. Benefits include comprehensive health, dental, and vision; life insurance; disability plan; employee assistance program (EAP); excellent retirement options and company contribution; and generous paid time off/sick leave accrual. All offers of employment are conditional pending the successful completion of a background investigation, provided by HireRight.

Note: Thank you for your interest in positions at Idaho State University. Once you have applied, the most updated information on the status of your application can be found by logging into your profile and reviewing your status. For answers to additional questions, please review our frequently asked questions.

Posting Number: req2845
Type: Working 12 months per year
Position: Classified Staff
Division: Finance and Administration

Idaho State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, including Veterans and individuals with disabilities.

The State of Idaho is committed to access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, auxiliary aids and services are available upon request. If you require an accommodation at any step in our recruitment process, you are encouraged to contact (208) 334-2263 (TTY/TTD: 711), or email [email protected].

Preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations.

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