What are the responsibilities and job description for the Auxiliary Operator position at Inside Higher Ed?
Department
ES CG-227110
Career Area
Facilities and Skilled Trades
Is this an internal only recruitment?:
No
Posting Open Date
03/06/2026
Application Deadline
04/13/2026
Position Type
Permanent Staff (SHRA)
Position Title
Energy Utilities Specialist - Contributing
Salary Grade Equivalent
NC12 / GN07
Working Title
Auxiliary Operator
Position Number
00022188, 00022168, 20075380
Vacancy ID
P020852
Full-time/Part-time Permanent/Time-Limited
Full-Time Permanent
Hours Per Week
40
Work Schedule
This position is requested to work a 24/7-365 days/year rotational 12 hour shift schedule. This includes nights, weekends and holidays. It is expected to cover absences both planned and unplanned when necessary.
This position is Adverse Weather, Emergency Event and Communicable Disease On-site Mandatory. Therefore must work during periods of inclement weather, university emergency and/or public health emergency and may have to work a differing schedule or shift than normally assigned.
Work Location:
CHAPEL HILL, NC
Position Location:
North Carolina, US
Hiring Range
$35,100 - $56,538
Pay Band Information
To learn more about the pay band for this branch and role, please see the Career Banding rates spreadsheet.
Be a Tar Heel!:
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.
Primary Purpose Of Organizational Unit
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.
Position Summary
A SIGN-ON BONUS OF $5,139 IS AVAILABLE FOR THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT OF THIS POSITION PAID IN 2 INSTALLMENTS WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF HIRE: $2,569.50 WITHIN 30 DAYS OF HIRE DATE & $2,569.50 12 MONTHS AFTER HIRE DATE.
This recruitment is for three (3) Energy Utilities Specialists positions. By applying, you will be considered for all three (3) positions: 00022188, 00022168 and 20075380.
This position will obtain the skill set to assist the Shift Supervisor (SS), Control Room Operator (CRO) and Assistant Control Room Operator (ACRO), in the operation of all plant components, equipment and systems in complex steam and electric generating facilities (Cogeneration Facility, Manning Drive Steam Plant and Landfill Gas Generation) to ensure they operate safely and reliably. This position will assist the SS, CRO, ACRO and other Auxiliary Operators (AO) in the operation of the Land Fill Gas System Flare and Generator. Position performs equipment LOTO, water lab testing, offloading of fuel oil and bulk chemicals and maintain equipment performance logs and reports. This position is responsible for the daily inspection of the operating equipment for proper valve alignment, lubrication and equipment operating condition detected at the actual equipment in the field. The auxiliary equipment includes all plant equipment and components. For example, steam turbine generator, fans, pumps, piping systems, valves, control valves, tanks, mills, steam traps, cooling tower, condensers, fluid drives, heat exchanges air compressors water treatment systems, bag houses, fuel oil storage, chiller units, ash removal system, etc. These operations require an understanding of utilities systems, equipment and components. The operating practices will ensure safe, reliable and efficient operation of these multi -million dollar facilities. This position communicates with the appropriate personnel to ensure that all malfunctions are corrected in order to maintain continuous steam and electric service to the customers. The incumbent in this position will develop a skill level which will allow for growth opportunities throughout the operations group. This position assists in the facility security during non-business hours and weekends 24/7. Positions at this level perform a variety of reoccurring and related tasks procedures and processes that are readily understood. Positions work under the direction of a supervisor and will be required to self-perform less complicated tasks. This position is an emergency duty/CDME (Communicable Disease Mandatory Employee) and must report to work during periods of adverse weather or other University emergency.
Minimum Education And Experience Requirements
High school diploma or equivalency and two years of related experience; or equivalent combination of training and experience. Requires certification(s).
Management Preferences
Experience in general industrial operations and maintenance.
Experience maintaining equipment status logs and accurate data entry.
Experience working in coal fired plant.
Experience monitoring and inspecting machinery and equipment.
Experience performing water treatment in support of industrial plant operations.
Special Physical/Mental Requirements
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. This position will be required to enter confined spaces 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 facilities. Attention to detail is required when operating plant systems and equipment from the DCS or locally and performing the rounds on the plant systems, equipment and components. This position is required to understand the operation of plant systems and equipment and a high degree of accuracy and technical skill is required when placing systems/equipment in and out of service. Attention to detail and mental concentration are required in order to operate equipment safely.
Campus Security Authority Responsibilities
Not Applicable.
Position/Schedule Requirements
Evening work, Exposure to Hazardous Materials, Night work, Overtime, Respirator, general use, Rotating shifts, Shift work, Valid NC Driver’s License, Weekend work
Special Instructions
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.
This recruitment is for three (3) Energy Utilities Specialists positions. By applying, you will be considered for all three (3) positions: 00022188, 00022168 and 20075380.
ES CG-227110
Career Area
Facilities and Skilled Trades
Is this an internal only recruitment?:
No
Posting Open Date
03/06/2026
Application Deadline
04/13/2026
Position Type
Permanent Staff (SHRA)
Position Title
Energy Utilities Specialist - Contributing
Salary Grade Equivalent
NC12 / GN07
Working Title
Auxiliary Operator
Position Number
00022188, 00022168, 20075380
Vacancy ID
P020852
Full-time/Part-time Permanent/Time-Limited
Full-Time Permanent
Hours Per Week
40
Work Schedule
This position is requested to work a 24/7-365 days/year rotational 12 hour shift schedule. This includes nights, weekends and holidays. It is expected to cover absences both planned and unplanned when necessary.
This position is Adverse Weather, Emergency Event and Communicable Disease On-site Mandatory. Therefore must work during periods of inclement weather, university emergency and/or public health emergency and may have to work a differing schedule or shift than normally assigned.
Work Location:
CHAPEL HILL, NC
Position Location:
North Carolina, US
Hiring Range
$35,100 - $56,538
Pay Band Information
To learn more about the pay band for this branch and role, please see the Career Banding rates spreadsheet.
Be a Tar Heel!:
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.
Primary Purpose Of Organizational Unit
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.
Position Summary
A SIGN-ON BONUS OF $5,139 IS AVAILABLE FOR THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT OF THIS POSITION PAID IN 2 INSTALLMENTS WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF HIRE: $2,569.50 WITHIN 30 DAYS OF HIRE DATE & $2,569.50 12 MONTHS AFTER HIRE DATE.
This recruitment is for three (3) Energy Utilities Specialists positions. By applying, you will be considered for all three (3) positions: 00022188, 00022168 and 20075380.
This position will obtain the skill set to assist the Shift Supervisor (SS), Control Room Operator (CRO) and Assistant Control Room Operator (ACRO), in the operation of all plant components, equipment and systems in complex steam and electric generating facilities (Cogeneration Facility, Manning Drive Steam Plant and Landfill Gas Generation) to ensure they operate safely and reliably. This position will assist the SS, CRO, ACRO and other Auxiliary Operators (AO) in the operation of the Land Fill Gas System Flare and Generator. Position performs equipment LOTO, water lab testing, offloading of fuel oil and bulk chemicals and maintain equipment performance logs and reports. This position is responsible for the daily inspection of the operating equipment for proper valve alignment, lubrication and equipment operating condition detected at the actual equipment in the field. The auxiliary equipment includes all plant equipment and components. For example, steam turbine generator, fans, pumps, piping systems, valves, control valves, tanks, mills, steam traps, cooling tower, condensers, fluid drives, heat exchanges air compressors water treatment systems, bag houses, fuel oil storage, chiller units, ash removal system, etc. These operations require an understanding of utilities systems, equipment and components. The operating practices will ensure safe, reliable and efficient operation of these multi -million dollar facilities. This position communicates with the appropriate personnel to ensure that all malfunctions are corrected in order to maintain continuous steam and electric service to the customers. The incumbent in this position will develop a skill level which will allow for growth opportunities throughout the operations group. This position assists in the facility security during non-business hours and weekends 24/7. Positions at this level perform a variety of reoccurring and related tasks procedures and processes that are readily understood. Positions work under the direction of a supervisor and will be required to self-perform less complicated tasks. This position is an emergency duty/CDME (Communicable Disease Mandatory Employee) and must report to work during periods of adverse weather or other University emergency.
Minimum Education And Experience Requirements
High school diploma or equivalency and two years of related experience; or equivalent combination of training and experience. Requires certification(s).
Management Preferences
Experience in general industrial operations and maintenance.
Experience maintaining equipment status logs and accurate data entry.
Experience working in coal fired plant.
Experience monitoring and inspecting machinery and equipment.
Experience performing water treatment in support of industrial plant operations.
Special Physical/Mental Requirements
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. This position will be required to enter confined spaces 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 facilities. Attention to detail is required when operating plant systems and equipment from the DCS or locally and performing the rounds on the plant systems, equipment and components. This position is required to understand the operation of plant systems and equipment and a high degree of accuracy and technical skill is required when placing systems/equipment in and out of service. Attention to detail and mental concentration are required in order to operate equipment safely.
Campus Security Authority Responsibilities
Not Applicable.
Position/Schedule Requirements
Evening work, Exposure to Hazardous Materials, Night work, Overtime, Respirator, general use, Rotating shifts, Shift work, Valid NC Driver’s License, Weekend work
Special Instructions
- 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.
This recruitment is for three (3) Energy Utilities Specialists positions. By applying, you will be considered for all three (3) positions: 00022188, 00022168 and 20075380.
Salary : $35,100 - $56,538