Utility Plant Operator-Intermediate
The University of Texas at San Antonio
Marketing & Communications
San Antonio, TX, USA
Posted on Nov 22, 2025
Under general supervision, responsible for assisting with ensuring the efficient generation of steam and chilled water. Performs various skilled tasks in the operation and maintenance of equipment in the central energy plant and utility distribution systems to ensure uninterrupted utility services.
Schedule: We currently have a recurring 8-week cycle of 4 days on then 4 days off. Night shift between 8-12 hours per shift.
Benefits Overview
UT Health San Antonio offers an excellent benefits package for its employees. Employees who work at least 20 hours a week, with an appointment of at least 4.5 months, are eligible for benefits.
Medical - UT SELECT Medical insurance is offered free for employees and administered by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas. Family members can be added to the plan through payroll deduction. Employees and their dependents can also receive discounted copays and coinsurance when using UT Health Physicians, a network of 800 premier physicians including more than 100 specialists. Employees receive $50,000 of group term life insurance and $50,000 of basic accidental death and dismemberment insurance for free, with options to purchase additional employee and dependent coverage for both at group rates.
Dental - Three dental insurance plan options are available for employees and their families through Delta Dental Insurance Company, two PPOs and one dental HMO plan. Both PPO plans allow employees to choose any licensed dentist.
Vision - Fully insured Vision Care benefits are offered by Superior Vision Services. Two vision plan options that offer either standard or enhanced vision benefits.
Disability - Employees can enroll in the Disability Insurance which provides income if a non-work related illness or injury prevents you from working.
FSAs - Employees can enroll in flexible spending accounts (FSAs) to set aside money from earnings before taxes for qualifying dependent day care expenses or out-of-pocket health care expenses.
Retirement - Employees are eligible for either the Teacher Retirement System (TRS) or the Optional Retirement Plan (ORP). TRS is a defined benefit retirement plan which UT Health matches employee contributions. ORP is for eligible faculty staff employees. Voluntary retirement programs are also available to invest before- or after-tax dollars with the choice of five quality retirement plan providers.
Time Off - A generous leave program offers multiple paid leave options:
- Front-loaded Paid Time Off: 128 to 208 hours (16 to 26 days) of Paid Time Off based on years of service, given at the start of each fiscal year. PTO may be prorated in year one based on date of hire.
- Extended Illness Bank: 8 hours (1 day) accrued per month which can be used for illness or injury after one day of Paid Time Off is taken.
- Paid Family Leave: Up to 240 hours (6 weeks) to care for a spouse, child, or parent after 6 months of consecutive employment.
- Holidays: 12 set paid holidays each year.
Discounts - Employees enjoy a range of discounts on services, tickets, and gym membership.
EEO Statement
UT Health San Antonio is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. It is our policy to promote and ensure equal employment opportunity for all individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status.
- Possess Technical skills in operation of HVAC, steam and chilled water, air, reverse osmosis, and water softening systems.
- Excellent problem solving skills.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to work independently with strong attention to accuracy and detail.
EDUCATION:
- High school diploma or GED is required.
LICENSES:
- Valid TX Driver's License is required - must have a clear driving record.
- Responsible for the execution of operational and maintenance strategies of assigned shift.
- Forecasts chilled water and steam load requirements based on seasons, time of day, and weather conditions.
- Adjusts, starts, and stops plant equipment to maintain and regulate efficient production of thermal energy systems while minimizing utility costs.
- Oversees the operation and maintenance of equipment which regulates the flow of chilled water, steam, air, water, and heating equipment into buildings from a central distribution point.
- Coordinates workflow of the department and recommends new processes as needed.
- May direct and delegate work processes and best practices to other staff.
- Trains and assists subordinate operators for assigned shift.
- Assists in the diagnosis and/or repairs of plant equipment.
- Provides supervision of the water treatment needs of Chillers and Boilers.
- Directs preventive maintenance activities.
- Maintains logs and departmental records.
- Performs all other duties as assigned.