Plant Operator Assistant
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (VT), Blacksburg, VA, United States
Job Description
Plant Operator Assistant operates all ash removal and related equipment. Assists plant operator with the operation of coal, gas, and oil-fired boilers, auxiliary equipment, and air pollution control equipment. Operates boilers and turbo-generators for training purposes and during emergency conditions. Performs preventive maintenance on plant equipment, including lubrication. Assists in water handling and testing, including operating reverse osmosis units, the regeneration of condensate polishers, and domestic softeners. Operates loader and coal delivery systems as required.
Required Qualifications
Demonstrated mechanical experience and/or completed coursework in mechanical/HVAC/process instrumentation.
American Society of Power Engineers Power Plant 3rd Class (PO3) or equivalent, or must obtain within 18 months of employment.
Ability to learn and perform water analysis and softener regeneration procedures.
Ability to interpret instructions and complete assignments as part of a team.
Ability to key and record data.
Ability to work shift work.
Ability to safely, frequently and independently move and handle items weighing up to 50 pounds.
Ability to climb steps and ladders up to four stories.
Ability to work in confined spaces, in extreme heat and dusty environments.
Though work is performed primarily indoors, must be able to work outside in all weather conditions.
Work may require bending, crouching and/or kneeling, standing, sitting and walking for up to one‑hour duration at a time.
Preferred Qualifications
Previous experience in a power plant and/or with high pressure boiler related experience.
Courses taken in mechanical/HVAC/process instrumentation and/or steam boiler operation.
Pay Band
2
Overtime Status
Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime
Appointment Type
Regular
Salary Information
$40,000 - $45,000; commensurate with experience
Hours per week
40
Review Date
May 11, 2026
Additional Information
This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future sponsorship.
This position has been designated by the university as essential to university operations. As emergency personnel, you will be required to report to work during emergency situations and authorized closings.
The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.
EEO Statement
Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.
Accommodation Statement
If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact
Facilities HR
at
opshr-g@vt.edu
during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.
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Plant Operator Assistant operates all ash removal and related equipment. Assists plant operator with the operation of coal, gas, and oil-fired boilers, auxiliary equipment, and air pollution control equipment. Operates boilers and turbo-generators for training purposes and during emergency conditions. Performs preventive maintenance on plant equipment, including lubrication. Assists in water handling and testing, including operating reverse osmosis units, the regeneration of condensate polishers, and domestic softeners. Operates loader and coal delivery systems as required.
Required Qualifications
Demonstrated mechanical experience and/or completed coursework in mechanical/HVAC/process instrumentation.
American Society of Power Engineers Power Plant 3rd Class (PO3) or equivalent, or must obtain within 18 months of employment.
Ability to learn and perform water analysis and softener regeneration procedures.
Ability to interpret instructions and complete assignments as part of a team.
Ability to key and record data.
Ability to work shift work.
Ability to safely, frequently and independently move and handle items weighing up to 50 pounds.
Ability to climb steps and ladders up to four stories.
Ability to work in confined spaces, in extreme heat and dusty environments.
Though work is performed primarily indoors, must be able to work outside in all weather conditions.
Work may require bending, crouching and/or kneeling, standing, sitting and walking for up to one‑hour duration at a time.
Preferred Qualifications
Previous experience in a power plant and/or with high pressure boiler related experience.
Courses taken in mechanical/HVAC/process instrumentation and/or steam boiler operation.
Pay Band
2
Overtime Status
Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime
Appointment Type
Regular
Salary Information
$40,000 - $45,000; commensurate with experience
Hours per week
40
Review Date
May 11, 2026
Additional Information
This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future sponsorship.
This position has been designated by the university as essential to university operations. As emergency personnel, you will be required to report to work during emergency situations and authorized closings.
The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.
EEO Statement
Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.
Accommodation Statement
If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact
Facilities HR
at
opshr-g@vt.edu
during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.
#J-18808-Ljbffr