The Steam Plant Manager is responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of the steam generation and distribution systems at a food and beverage production facility. This role oversees the day-to-day management of high-pressure boilers, auxiliary systems, steam piping, and condensate recovery while leading a team of operators and technicians. The manager ensures that the plant meets production demands, regulatory standards, and corporate sustainability goals.
Supervise the operation of high-pressure boilers, deaerators, feedwater systems, and steam distribution networks.
Monitor steam production parameters to ensure consistent delivery of pressure, temperature, and volume to process users.
Manage boiler blowdown, water treatment, and condensate return processes to maintain system efficiency and integrity.
Oversee routine inspections, testing, and preventive maintenance of all steam plant equipment.
Lead and schedule a team of boiler operators, mechanics, and utility technicians.
Train personnel on operating procedures, emergency response, and best practices for steam plant safety and efficiency.
Ensure appropriate staffing coverage for 24/7 operations as needed.
Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local boiler codes, including ASME, OSHA, NFPA, and EPA standards.
Maintain records of inspections, operating logs, emissions reports, and regulatory documentation.
Support internal and external audits related to utility systems and food safety requirements.
Identify and implement improvements to reduce fuel consumption, increase heat recovery, and minimize steam losses.
Support energy and sustainability programs, including GHG emissions reduction and boiler system upgrades.
Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for steam system performance and reliability.
Boiler operations and high-pressure steam system performance
Utilities reliability and preventive maintenance execution
Energy efficiency, heat recovery, and condensate return improvement
Regulatory compliance and environmental permit adherence (e.g., emissions, water discharge)
Operator training and development for safety and operational consistency
Steam demand forecasting and load management aligned with production
Continuous improvement in steam plant automation and monitoring systems (SCADA/BMS)
Water treatment program oversight to extend asset life and reduce scaling/corrosion
High school diploma or GED required
Technical certification in Boiler Operations or Stationary Engineering preferred
Associates or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Facilities, or Power Engineering is a plus
5–10 years of experience in industrial steam plant operations, with 2–3 years in a supervisory or managerial role
Experience working in food, beverage, or other sanitary manufacturing environments preferred
Strong knowledge of boiler operations, pressure vessel codes, and utility system controls (SCADA, BMS)
Familiarity with water treatment chemistry, feedwater systems, and condensate handling
Ability to read P&IDs, schematics, and technical manuals
Strong supervisory and communication abilities
Capable of training and developing technical staff
Proactive, safety-conscious mindset with attention to reliability and quality