Steam Distribution Maintenance Technician at InsideHigherEd

ES CG-227110

Facilities and Skilled Trades

No

11/11/2025

11/24/2025

Permanent Staff (SHRA)

Energy Utilities Technician - Advanced

NC08 / GN10

Steam Distribution Maintenance Technician

20032443

P020640

Full-Time Permanent

40

Monday – Thursday 7:00AM – 5:30PM.
Position participates in an On-Call rotation.
Position subject to overtime.
Emergency Duty, Adverse Weather Essential and Communicable Disease Mandatory Position – as such this position must report to work during adverse weather (snow, ice, tornado, hurricane, etc.), University declared emergency event and/or pandemic or other health emergency.

CHAPEL HILL, NC

North Carolina, US

$33540 - $68254

To learn more about the pay band for this branch and role, please see the Career Banding rates spreadsheet.

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

The primary purpose of Cogeneration Systems is the generation of steam to the various buildings on the University campus and to the UNC Hospitals. Steam is critical to the operations of the University and UNC Hospitals. It is used for heating, cooling, domestic hot water, sterilization of surgical instrument, distilled water production, food preparation and dish washing. Cogeneration Systems also generates electricity as a byproduct of the steam generation. It can presently supply about 30 percent of the peak campus electrical load. Cogeneration Systems is part of UNC Energy Services.

A SIGN-ON BONUS OF $6,024 IS AVAILABLE FOR THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT OF THIS POSITION PAID IN 2 INSTALLMENTS WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF HIRE: $3,012 WITHIN 30 DAYS OF HIRE DATE AND $3,012 12 MONTHS AFTER HIRE DATE.

This position requires advanced mechanical skills with entry-level to intermediate electrical skills to maintain a complex steam distribution system. The skill set allows the position to work independently in performing diagnostics, maintenance and repairs to critical steam distribution piping, tunnels, hardware, equipment, hot water systems, heat exchangers, metering devices and components associated with condensate return pump systems, hot water circulating systems and their electric controls. These duties are to include understanding mechanical concepts, applications, equipment, techniques for critical welding application, cutting and pipe fitting. Further this position requires the understanding of the operation of a steam distribution system. This position is expected to routinely act as a crew leader and occasionally act in a supervisory role providing assignments to lesser skilled mechanics. This position trains and provides guidance to junior mechanics on steam distribution system operations, maintenance and repair. This position will adhere to standard safe work practices especially when working in public areas where students, staff and faculty are in close proximity to the distribution system(s). This requires an understanding of the design and operation of these systems, equipment and controls. This is a multifaceted position where the individual must master both maintenance techniques and operational techniques of steam distribution systems. Safe operation of an underground steam distribution system takes significant additional knowledge and understanding beyond performing routine maintenance.

High school diploma or equivalency and one year of related experience; or equivalent combination of training and experience. Requires certification(s).

The ability to perform a number of widely varying and diverse assignments that require in-depth analysis and diagnostic work. The ability to serve as a ‘technical expert’ within the work unit and guide and coach others. The ability to demonstrate a thorough and extensive understanding of complex equipment and systems. Examples: Plan and implement modifications to piping for steam, chilled water and high voltage wiring installation for cogeneration, chilled water and electric distribution systems. The ability to make operational decisions and provide direction in the operations of complex equipment and boiler systems. The ability to demonstrate commitment to provide safe working environment by leading by example; ability to follow appropriate post-emergency procedures. The ability to lead facility safety efforts and regularly communicate safety related operational items. The ability to independently take necessary actions to ensure that industry service standards and procedures are followed when handling multiple, complex assignments. Ability to read and interpret Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) manuals and use diagnostic tools. Ability to lead and resolve operations issues associated with complex equipment and systems. The ability to identify trends that impact service delivery to groups or individual customers; ability to make recommendations to improve service delivery based on customer feedback; ability to look for ways to remove barriers to optimize service delivery.

Maintenance experience in utilities, specifically steam distribution systems.
Welding experience.

High school diploma or equivalency and one year of related experience; or equivalent combination of training and experience. Requires certification(s).

Valid NC Drivers License.

Ability to obtain forklift license, man-lift/snorkel boom operation certification.

The environmental conditions vary tremendously from air conditioning and heat to dusty, hot, humid and cold conditions. This position will be required to work in all conditions for various lengths of time depending on the operational requirements of the steam distribution system. This position will be required to enter confined spaces (tunnels) or hazardous environments with the appropriate PPE in accordance with established procedures. The position requires climbing ladders/stairs, ability to move 50+ pounds, ability to wear self-contained breathing apparatus, working with hands above head for extended periods of time and working on knees for extended periods of time. Mental concentration is vital in this position for the safe and reliable operation of the steam distribution system. Attention to detail and mental concentration are required in order to operate equipment safely.

Not Applicable.

Evening work occasionally, Exposure to Hazardous Materials, Night work occasionally, On-call, Overtime occasionally, Valid NC Driver’s License, Weekend work occasionally

**ELIGIBILITY FOR SIGN-ON BONUS

The selected candidate for this position may be eligible for a sign-on bonus. Qualified applicants must apply and be selected from the candidate pool of this posting and meet the State policy following requirements:

To be eligible for a Sign-on bonus, an individual must not have worked in a probationary, permanent, or time-limited appointment in the last 12 months as an employee in North Carolina state government, including but not limited to the judicial system, state executive branch agencies, and the university system in a position subject to the State Human Resources Act.
A newly hired permanent full time or permanent part-time (more than 20 hours a week) employee are eligible for a sign-on bonus (this will be prorated for employees working more than 20 hours and less than 40 hours per week).

This SHRA Sign-on Bonus is contingent upon budget and final eligibility determination as of the effective date of hire. All recipients must sign the Pay Back Agreement form. Additional information regarding the SHRA Sign-on Policy can be found https://oshr.nc.gov/policies/sign-and-retention-bonus-policy.