What are the responsibilities and job description for the STEPS Heating and Cooling Operator position at Inside Higher Ed?
Job Title
STEPS Heating and Cooling Operator
Requisition Number
TE08959
Department Name
3CU00:Utilities & Energy Management
Work Location:
Lexington, KY
Salary Range
$18.25/hour
Type Of Position
Temporary
Position Time Status
Full-Time
Required Education
High School.
Required Related Experience
Experience in heating and cooling, equipment maintenance, and/or general maintenance.
Physical Requirements
Standing or walking with objects up to 50lbs; Repetitive motion. May be exposed to loud noises, fumes, confined spaces, and/or temperature extremes while reviewing a job-site(s).
Shift
Current hours are for 12 hour shifts (day shift is 6a-6p, night shift is 6p-6a).
Shift schedule is three 12 hour shifts one week and four 12 hour shifts the next week within a two week pay period, with every other weekend required. May vary.
Shift differentials do apply for weekend work and 3p-7a hours.
Job Summary
Are you ready to be a key part of the team that powers our campus? As a STEPS Heating and Cooling Operator, you’ll play a critical role in maintaining and operating the equipment that keeps the University of Kentucky running efficiently. This is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to build hands-on skills, work with essential systems, and contribute to the vital operations that support our students, faculty, staff, and patients.
About The Role
In this essential position, you will install, maintain, and operate equipment at the University’s Heating and Cooling Plants. You’ll work closely with H/C Operators and other team members to ensure proper steam pressure, chilled water temperatures, and overall plant efficiency. This position supports both preventive and emergency maintenance needs and may involve training or leading others in day-to-day tasks.
Key Responsibilities
Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? :
No
Preferred Education/Experience
HS 1 year of experience in heating and cooling, equipment maintenance, and/or general maintenance.
Deadline To Apply
10/31/2025
Our University Community
We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.
The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.
Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.
STEPS Heating and Cooling Operator
Requisition Number
TE08959
Department Name
3CU00:Utilities & Energy Management
Work Location:
Lexington, KY
Salary Range
$18.25/hour
Type Of Position
Temporary
Position Time Status
Full-Time
Required Education
High School.
Required Related Experience
Experience in heating and cooling, equipment maintenance, and/or general maintenance.
Physical Requirements
Standing or walking with objects up to 50lbs; Repetitive motion. May be exposed to loud noises, fumes, confined spaces, and/or temperature extremes while reviewing a job-site(s).
Shift
Current hours are for 12 hour shifts (day shift is 6a-6p, night shift is 6p-6a).
Shift schedule is three 12 hour shifts one week and four 12 hour shifts the next week within a two week pay period, with every other weekend required. May vary.
Shift differentials do apply for weekend work and 3p-7a hours.
Job Summary
Are you ready to be a key part of the team that powers our campus? As a STEPS Heating and Cooling Operator, you’ll play a critical role in maintaining and operating the equipment that keeps the University of Kentucky running efficiently. This is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to build hands-on skills, work with essential systems, and contribute to the vital operations that support our students, faculty, staff, and patients.
About The Role
In this essential position, you will install, maintain, and operate equipment at the University’s Heating and Cooling Plants. You’ll work closely with H/C Operators and other team members to ensure proper steam pressure, chilled water temperatures, and overall plant efficiency. This position supports both preventive and emergency maintenance needs and may involve training or leading others in day-to-day tasks.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate and maintain boilers, chillers, compressors, cooling towers, pumps, and auxiliary equipment
- Maintain proper steam pressure and chilled water temperatures
- Feed coal into boilers, maintain uniform coal bed, and remove ash accumulation
- Fill and drain boilers; clean evaporator and condenser tubes
- Perform routine lubrication, repairs, and troubleshooting on mechanical and pneumatic systems
- Manage coal and ash handling systems, and water treatment chemical processes
- Maintain clean and safe job sites and accurate maintenance records
- Respond to emergency calls and assist in training or assigning tasks to others
- Frequent climbing, crawling, and maneuvering in tight spaces
- Significant lifting, pushing, and pulling (50 lbs. or more)
- Regular exposure to extreme temperatures, hazardous chemicals, and fumes
- Must be available to work overtime as required
- On-the-Job Training: Hands-on experience will be provided. Candidates with experience in power tools, machinery, or HVAC are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Career Opportunity: This position offers the potential for regular, long-term employment based on performance and job fit.
- Benefits Eligible: You may be eligible for a comprehensive health insurance package and other university benefits.
- Team Environment: Work alongside skilled professionals committed to excellence in a supportive, safety-focused workplace.
Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? :
No
Preferred Education/Experience
HS 1 year of experience in heating and cooling, equipment maintenance, and/or general maintenance.
Deadline To Apply
10/31/2025
Our University Community
We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.
The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.
Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.
Salary : $18
