Boiler Operator - Framingham State University

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES:

The Boiler Operator (Steam Fireman I) will operate boilers and related equipment; read meters and gauges at specified intervals; open and close valves and adjust controls; check/monitor operating systems to detect faulty operating equipment, etc.; clean, maintain and/or lubricate power plant and related auxiliary equipment; record data and maintain logs on such matters as temperatures, fuel consumption etc.; and perform related work as required.

The basic purpose of this work is to operate power plant equipment to provide a constant source of steam energy to users, as well as steam-turbine driven auxiliary equipment.

Please review the official title of Steam Fireman I at http://Massachusetts Department of Education Classification Specifications

SUPERVISION EXERCISED:

May exercise functional supervision over some or all the activities of Power Plant attendants and other employees assigned to Power Plant operations.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

Receives close supervision from employees of higher grade who provide instructions on all work activities and review performance through inspections for effectiveness and compliance with established procedures and standards.

EXAMPLES OF SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Operates boilers and related auxiliary equipment which requires a 2nd Class Fireman's license to operate and fire high pressure boilers by regulating controls, opening and closing valves, etc. in accordance with standard operating instruction and procedures and safety regulations.
• Reads meters and gauges at specified intervals to ensure proper temperature, pressure, fuel levels, water levels, etc.
• Opens and closes valves and adjust controls to regulate fuel flow, airflow, water level, steam pressure, etc. to ensure safe and efficient operation of boilers.
• Checks/monitors operating systems to detect faulty operating equipment, to determine necessary repairs, to notify appropriate personnel and/or to determine when to shut system down.
• Cleans, maintains and/or lubricates power plant and related auxiliary equipment such as burners, pumps, filters, etc. to ensure safe and efficient operations.
• Performs minor repairs and/or adjust power plant and related auxiliary equipment using hand tools in order to ensure proper and safe operation.
• Records data and maintains logs on such matters as temperatures, fuel consumption, meter and gauge readings, etc.
• Performs related duties such as maintaining cleanliness of work areas; verifying receipt of fuel; directing fuel deliverers to proper storage areas; and attending training programs as required. Instructs students in the use of electronic equipment, safety measures, etc.

Based on assignment, may also:

• Check and/or monitor air conditioning and/or ventilation systems in order to ensure safe and efficient operations.
• May be required to assist 1st Class Fireman in operating auxiliary equipment such as steam turbines and mandated equipment for coal-fired boilers for environmental protection.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Steam Firemen work under exposure to the hazards of the harmful effects of gases, noxious fumes, chemicals, noise, heat, inadequate ventilation, machinery in motion, etc.; work varied shifts, weekends, nights and holidays; work subject to a standby (24 hour) work status; lift and carry heavy objects; work at heights of up to 100 ft. and may work in correctional institutions.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Possession of a current and valid Second Class Steam Fireman's license issued by the Massachusetts Department of Public Safety, pursuant to Chapter 146 of the Massachusetts General Laws.
• Knowledge of the types and uses of low and/or high pressure boilers.
• Knowledge of the methods and techniques of operation of steam boilers and auxiliary equipment.
• Knowledge of the principles, practices and techniques used in firing and operating low-pressure and high pressure boilers and their auxiliary equipment.
• Knowledge of the types and uses of electrical, mechanical and pneumatic controls used in power plant operations.
• Knowledge of the types and uses of precision measuring equipment used in a power plant such as manometers, voltmeters, anemometers, tachometers, etc.
• Knowledge of calibration and/or adjustment techniques as applied to control systems used in power plant operations.
• Knowledge of the safety procedures followed in power plant operations.
• Knowledge of proper methods of storage and handling of fuel.
• Skill in using small hand tools such as wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, hacksaws, pipe threaders, etc.
• Ability to understand and apply the laws, rules, regulations, policies, procedures, guidelines, etc. governing assigned unit activities.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as plans, specifications, drawings, technical manuals, etc.
• Ability to use precision measuring equipment, devices and instrumentation.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to read, write and comprehend the English language.
• Ability to maintain accurate records.
• Ability to lift and carry heavy objects.
• Ability to visually distinguish colors.
• Ability to adjust to changing situations to meet emergency or changing production requirements.
• Based on assignment, possession of a Massachusetts Class 3 Motor Vehicle Operator's License.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Candidates who are bilingual in English and Spanish or English and Portuguese are strongly encouraged to apply.

This is a full-time, non-exempt, benefits-eligible position in the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) bargaining unit with a title of Boiler Operator. The bi-weekly pay rate is $1,870.42, Labor grade 14, Step 6.

It is the policy of Framingham State University that all employees be vaccinated against COVID-19 before they begin employment. Proof of the COVID-19 vaccine is required of all individuals hired by FSU, to be verified after a verbal offer of employment has been accepted, and before employment begins. Prospective employees may submit a request for a medical or religious exemption to the COVID-19 vaccination requirement to Human Resources. Furthermore, FSU employees must wear a mask inside campus buildings.

Framingham State University conducts criminal history and sexual offender record checks on recommended finalists prior to final employment for all positions.

Framingham State University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

Members of underrepresented groups, minorities, women, veterans, persons with disabilities, and all persons committed to diversity and inclusive excellence are strongly encouraged to apply.

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