System Engineer, Steam Plant Systems

Overview:    

The Utilities Division (UD) is part of the Facilities & Operations (F&O) Directorate and is seeking an experienced Engineer for the position of Facilities Engineer – Steam Plant Systems to support the Mechanical Utilities Complex.

UD is responsible for the operation and maintenance of all standard industrial-type utilities at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), ensuring utility services are delivered safely, reliably, compliantly, and economically to support ORNL’s research mission. The success of every research project at ORNL depends on the Utilities Division’s ability to provide uninterrupted utility services. These utilities include electrical distribution; chilled water production and distribution; steam production and distribution; sewage collection and treatment; potable water storage and distribution; natural gas distribution; compressed air production and distribution; and stormwater control.

The Steam Work Center is responsible for operation and maintenance of steam production equipment and facilities, steam distribution system, compressed air production and distribution system, and the natural gas distribution system.  The qualified applicant will fill the role of a System Engineer in the Steam Work Center.  The Steam System Engineer is the resident authority on engineering matters related to the operation and maintenance of generation and distribution equipment within each system; gives technical input for daily operations and maintenance; and provides sound engineering recommendations and guidance for new projects or system modifications.  The System Engineer interacts with operations, maintenance, sub-contractors, customers, and all levels of ORNL management so good written and oral communication skills are required.  

Qualifications:

Major Duties/Responsibilities:  

• Provide support in establishing the necessary requirements for directing maintenance, modifications, or utility outage activities to preserve safety and environmental controls, and to minimize interruptions or negative impact to customers.
• Promote frequent communication with customers, craft workers, and other utility staff members.
• Support predictive/preventative maintenance programs.
• Integrate worker safety and health and environmental protection into work planning and execution.
• Represent the organization in providing solutions to technical problems associated with utility systems or projects.
• May provide guidance to junior professionals in performing their jobs.
• Perform work planning and supervisor duties as necessary.
• Support configuration control management to ensure that systems and associated equipment are operated and maintained effectively and efficiently.
• Support proper authorization for work performed in or on mechanical utilities facilities and systems by others such as construction and service subcontractors.
• Support development of energy conservation strategies and other performance improvements to reduce costs for utilities and other facility services.
• Support maintenance of record drawings, project documentation, and regulatory records.
• Work independently with little supervision to solve problems while providing compliance to standards, procedures, and policies.
• Provide engineering oversight of all mechanical utilities complex projects and manage small to medium projects within the Division.
• Support development and implementation of the utilities training program
• Perform other roles and duties as directed by the Mechanical Utilities Group Leader or Steam Work Center Team Lead.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success. 

Basic Qualifications:

• BS degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited college or university 
• A minimum of five years of experience in a utility/power plant environment to provide a working knowledge related to the day-to-day operation of mechanical utility systems (e.g., gas and oil-fired boilers, chillers, fans, pumps, motors, compressors, air dryers, filters, heat exchangers, cooling towers, water distribution or wastewater treatment. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Professional Engineer license active in State of Tennessee.
• A proven ability to develop positive customer relations and work in a union contract environment are preferred.
• Supervisory or project management experience
• Knowledge of environmental and regulatory compliance requirements associated with industrial boiler and utility operations, including air emissions requirements, boiler and pressure vessel requirements, natural gas distribution requirements, water treatment and chemistry programs, and applicable mechanical and environmental standards.
• Experience working with ASME pressure systems, piping systems, and applicable mechanical codes and standards. 
• Experience supporting or supervising 24/7 operations in a rotating shift environment. 

Special Requirements: 

• Work involves various physical requirements and working conditions. As such, a pre-hire physical will be required after offer.
• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. 
• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a clearance from the Department of Energy. As such, this position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program.

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.