Senior Central Utility Plant Manager

Job Title: Senior Central Utility Plant Manager

Location: Poughkeepsie, NY

Position Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Central Utility Plant Manager to lead the operations of our large-scale central utility plant. This critical role will be responsible for overseeing the performance, efficiency, and safety of plant systems, including high-pressure steam, chilled water, HVAC, compressed air, and associated distribution systems. The ideal candidate will have a robust background in utility operations, with preference given to those with maritime or Navy experience. This is an exceptional opportunity for a strategic, results-oriented leader to manage complex infrastructure and drive innovation in energy efficiency and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead Plant Operations: Oversee and manage the 24/7 operations of the central utility plant, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and compliance with all safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Team Leadership & Development: Manage a skilled team of utility plant operators, Refrigeration technicians, Boiler technicians, Controls technicians and support staff. Provide mentorship, foster teamwork, and implement effective training programs to enhance performance and safety.
• Maintenance & Reliability: Develop, implement, and continuously improve preventive maintenance schedules and processes to ensure the plant’s equipment is maintained and operational at all times.
• Efficiency & Optimization: Drive operational improvements by identifying areas for increased efficiency, reducing downtime, and implementing advanced technologies and methodologies.
• Energy Demand Coordination: Collaborate with cross-functional teams to monitor and meet the facility’s energy requirements, aligning utility outputs with organizational needs.
• Budget & Resource Management: Oversee plant budgets, inventory management, and procurement processes to ensure efficient use of resources.
• Crisis Management & Response: Lead the development and execution of emergency response and contingency plans, ensuring the plant can quickly and effectively manage any operational disruptions or crises.
• Regulatory & Compliance Oversight: Ensure the plant adheres to all relevant safety, environmental, and industry regulations, conducting audits and reporting as required.
• Industry Trends & Technology: Stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technological advancements to implement best practices and innovative solutions in plant operations.
• Project Management: Ability to describe in detail required system repairs and communicate that to JLL and client management. Manage CUP related infrastructure projects.
• Response to Emergencies: Respond (24/7) to system emergencies such as boiler failures, chiller failures, City water leaks, Chilled Water leaks, Fire system leaks, Refrigerant leaks and Steam condensate leaks. Operate valve to isolate leaks, recommend repair options and monitor repairs.
• Engineering Support: Provide Engineering support and assistance to other facility departments on client campus.
  
  

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or significant and verifiable related skills.
• Experience: At least 10 years of hands-on experience in utility plant operations, with a minimum of 5 years in a leadership or management role.
• Preferred Background: Maritime or Navy experience is strongly preferred, bringing expertise in complex infrastructure operations.
• Technical Expertise: Proven expertise in the operation, maintenance, and optimization of high-pressure steam systems, HVAC, chilled water, compressed air, and utility distribution systems.
• Leadership Skills: Strong leadership and team management capabilities, with experience in mentoring staff and fostering a collaborative and high-performing team culture.
• Operational Excellence: Track record of successfully managing large-scale plant operations with a focus on safety, reliability, and cost-efficiency.
• Energy & Sustainability: A solid understanding of energy efficiency and sustainability practices and the ability to integrate these principles into plant operations.
• Certifications: Certifications such as Certified Energy Manager (CEM), Professional Engineer (PE), or equivalent are a plus.
  
  

Key Competencies:

• Leadership & Strategic Thinking: Ability to lead teams while developing and executing long-term strategies for plant operations.
• Problem-Solving & Decision-Making: Strong critical thinking skills and the ability to make quick, informed decisions under pressure.
• Regulatory & Compliance Knowledge: Deep understanding of relevant industry standards and regulations, with a focus on safety and environmental compliance.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate technical information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Continuous Improvement: A strong focus on continuous improvement, with the ability to implement and drive operational changes that enhance plant performance and reduce costs.
  
  

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary, commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, retirement, etc.)
• Career development opportunities in a dynamic, growth-focused environment
• The chance to lead and innovate within a critical infrastructure operation
  
  

Application Instructions:

If you are an experienced utility plant manager with a strong background in operations and leadership, we encourage you to apply today. Join our team and play a key role in driving the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of our central utility plant operations.