Power Plant Operator​/Mechanic

Working Title

Power Plant Operator / Mechanic

Trades Technician III

Full-time Staff (Classified)

Full-Time

Non-Exempt:
Eligible for Overtime

Business Services

100264 - Power Plant & G

Pay Range

$44,000 - $50,500

No

No

No

11/26/2025

At James Madison University (JMU), we’re more than just a publicly funded institution — we’re a vibrant, welcoming community located on a stunning campus where innovation, collaboration, and personal growth thrive. Our mission is to prepare students for a bright future, and we believe that starts with supporting the people who make it all possible: our employees.

Why Work at JMU? We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your professional journey and personal wellbeing:

• Generous Leave:
  Enjoy paid vacation, sick leave, parental leave, community service leave, and 19 paid holidays annually.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage:
  Access high-quality health insurance options that fit your needs.
• Retirement Options:
  Plan for your future with retirement benefits through the Virginia Retirement System.
• Employee Well-Being:
  Our Balanced Dukes program promotes wellness and work-life integration through resources, events, and support.
• Tuition Waiver Program:
  Advance your education with our tuition waiver program for undergraduate and graduate courses taken at JMU.

At JMU, we believe in Being the Change — and that starts with creating an environment where you can grow, contribute meaningfully, and feel supported every step of the way.

Discover what makes JMU a great place to work: bit.ly/JMUEmployment

The Facilities Management Department at James Madison University is currently seeking a qualified applicant for the position of Power Plant Operator / Mechanic. Applicants must be available to work all shifts.

• Installs, modifies, overhauls, repairs, and maintains boilers and associated auxiliary equipment, steam distribution, and condensate return lines throughout the university.
• Prepares accurate, complete, and up-to-date records of actions taken and assures documentation is properly signed and coordinated in a timely manner.
• Troubleshoots problem areas and inspects for defective equipment and faulty components. Tests system operation and detects component malfunctions.
• Operates boilers and auxiliary equipment within designed parameters to ensure proper operation, efficiency, and safety of the plant.
• Utilizes safe practices and procedures following established safety rules and regulations.
• Trains and teaches other employees about proper procedures, repair techniques, and safety issues.

The employee in this role will be required to work a variety of shift schedules as a primary operator/maintenance mechanic within a centralized steam generation/chiller plant production facility. JMU will provide all training required to enhance knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform duties and responsibilities.

• Working knowledge of applicable safety rules, regulations, and procedures.
• Working skills include the use of hand and power tools, welding, and cutting equipment.
• Mechanical abilities including:
  • maintaining and repairing power plant and related equipment
  • troubleshooting and diagnosing a variety of mechanical problems
  • ability to read and interpret gauges, recorders, and monitoring equipment
• Ability to perform simple record-keeping tasks.
• Valid driver’s license.

• A current Facilities Operator Engineer certification (1st, 2nd, or 3rd class) or the willingness to obtain the certification.
• Competitive candidates should possess knowledge of all aspects of operation, repair, and maintenance procedures to power plant equipment: boilers, pumps, valves, chillers, cooling towers, controls, 3-phase electric motors, and steam distribution systems.

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a…