Chiller Operator, (vacation relief coverage)

harvarduniversity

Cambridge, MA, United States · Cambridge · United States

Posted May 6, 2026

Full-time
On-site
Campus Services - Engineering & Utilities
Not Applicable

Job description

Company Description By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive. Why join Harvard University Central Administration? Harvard University's Central Administration (CADM) is a 5,000+ employee organization that supports the university's overall excellence by understanding and serving the needs of its schools, students, faculty, staff, alumni, and surrounding communities. Through dynamic and collaborative partnerships, CADM provides high-quality and efficient services to the schools to help them achieve their goals. Job Description NOTE : This is a vacation relief position, required to cover vacations and other absences A specifically trained mechanic, skilled in the trade of operating and servicing chilled water generation/distribution systems and related equipment/components. Responsible for maintaining an intimate knowledge of such systems and identifying and resolving problems associated with each system consistent with recognized trade practices, industry standards, codes/jurisdictional authorities, and University guidelines/practices. Also required to perform, as directed, other skills of the trade and related duties associated with the operation and maintenance of steam equipment and distribution systems, water/drainage distribution systems, and other related systems. Must maintain work area, tools and equipment in accordance with University standards/practices. Required to work independently and/or with others under the guidance of the Associate Manager and/or Working Foreman. Job-Specific Responsibilities: NOTE : This is a vacation relief position, required to cover vacations and other absences Operates central chilled water plant under varying load conditions. Operates other miscellaneous plant equipment including water treatment systems and compressed air systems. Works with other trades personnel and management personnel to maintain continuous plant operations/performance. Takes all related plant readings critical for operations, efficient performance, and billing (e.g., pressures, temperatures, flows, oil levels, meter readings, etc.) Completes daily logs and prepares reports as necessary, enters daily information in computer. Maintains chemical treatment program and enters information into computer. Cleans and maintains plant and assigned boiler facilities. Perform inspections, preventive maintenance on various equipment as directed. Operates and maintains various plant systems (including HVAC) as required to meet equipment and occupant requirements. Works with utility mechanics and performs other duties as directed. Maintains work area, tools and equipment. Physical Requirements: Required to bend, reach, and hold awkward positions for prolonged periods. Required to lift up to 75 pounds and to lift and transport various types of equipment and tools, with others, in excess of 300 pounds. Must be able to push and pull heavy loads as listed above. Must be able to work for extended periods of time from/in ladders, high places, cramped spaces, confined spaces, and scaffolding. Requires considerable walking, climbing, bending, and stooping. Qualifications Basic Qualifications: NOTE : This is a vacation relief position, required to cover vacations and other absences Five (5) years of experience in the trade as a journeyman, current Refrigeration Technician license, and EPA CFC Technician certification required. Trade or vocational school mandatory. Must have a valid Massachusetts driver’s license. Additional Qualifications and Skills: Must be thoroughly knowledgeable of and experienced in the installation, operation, troubleshooting, maintenance and repair of all components and/or systems (chillers, cooling towers, pumps, water treatment systems, controls, etc.) pertaining to chilled water generation and distribution. Must be capable of reading and interpreting plans, specifications, and operating/technical manuals associated with systems/equipment within his/her work scope. Must observe and comply with all standard safety codes and/or practices and perform work in accordance with recognized trade practices, industry standards, codes and/or requirements of jurisdictional authorities, and University guidelines and/or practices. Must have a complete set of hand tools . Required to wear a clean neat uniform, and maintain a professional image at all times. Also required to wear safety equipment and clothing when appropriate and/or required. Ability to work independently, take initiative when necessary, as well as be capable of working as a member of a team and in conjunction with other trades. Must be quality focused, service oriented, and be able to clearly and professionally communicate in English with peers, managers, and customers. Required to take and pass annual DOT physical. Technology Skills Requirements: Operation of state-of-the-art, computer-based plant control systems required. Certificates and Licenses: Current Refrigeration Technician license EPA CFC Technician certification A valid Massachusetts driver’s license Additional Information Standard Hours/Schedule: NOTE : This is a vacation relief position, required to cover vacations and other absences. 40 hours per week Sunday: Off Monday: Off Tuesday: 2:00pm - 10:00pm Wednesday: 2:00pm - 10:00pm Thursday: 2:00pm - 10:00pm Friday: 2:00pm - 10:00pm Saturday: 2:00pm - 10:00pm Compensation Range/Rate (including Shift Differential if applicable): $50.82/hour, plus a $1.65/hour shift differential Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position Pre-Employment Screening: Identity Criminal Certification/License Motor Vehicle Record Drug Test CORI Employment #LI-RC1 Work Format Details This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment. Salary Grade and Ranges This position is salary grade level 000. Corresponding salary information can be found in the job description above. Benefits Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: Generous paid time off including parental leave Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one Retirement plans with university contributions Wellbeing and mental health resources Support for families and caregivers Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page . EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination . We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes. Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy . Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.