Harvard University · Cambridge, MA

Chiller Operator, (vacation relief coverage) at Harvard University — Cambridge, MA

Full-timeCambridge, MA$52.34–$52.34/hourPosted 2026-07-08Apply on SmartRecruiters

Full 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.

Emergency Status Designation:

  • Critical Operations Personnel

Basic Qualifications:

  • Five (5) years of experience in the trade as a journeyman or operator, current Refrigeration Technician license or current Commonwealth of Massachusetts’s First-Class Fireman’s License or higher.
  • Must have, or successfully obtain within 6 months of hiring, EPA CFC certification (universal).
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Operation of state-of-the-art, computer-based plant control systems required.
  • 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:

    Certificates and Licenses:

    • Current Refrigeration Technician license
    • EPA CFC Technician certification
    • A valid Massachusetts driver’s license

    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):

    • $52.34 per 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

    Salary Grade and Ranges

    Benefits

    • 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