The Senior Steam Plant Operator leads the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of steam generation and distribution systems including high-pressure boilers, deaerators, feedwater systems, steam traps, and auxiliary equipment. This role performs complex diagnostics, supports energy efficiency initiatives, and provides leadership to junior operators, contributing to uptime, sustainability, and regulatory readiness across plant utilities.
Operate high- and low-pressure steam systems to maintain stable supply for production and sanitation.
Manage combustion tuning, burner controls, flame safeguard systems, and SCADA/HMI interfaces.
Respond to alarms and emergency conditions with expert-level troubleshooting and system adjustments.
Perform in-depth maintenance and inspections of boilers, valves, pumps, and condensate return systems.
Lead troubleshooting efforts and corrective actions for persistent system issues or mechanical failures.
Interpret trends in operating data to predict failures and optimize equipment longevity.
Monitor and manage boiler water chemistry including pH, conductivity, and chemical dosing.
Ensure safe handling of water treatment chemicals and proper calibration of feed systems.
Optimize blowdown frequency and manage condensate recovery to support sustainability goals.
Ensure operational compliance with local/state boiler codes, ASME BPVC, OSHA, and environmental regulations.
Lead internal and external audits, prepare logbooks and reports, and manage inspection schedules.
Maintain documentation of safety tests, emissions data, and maintenance records.
Train and mentor junior and mid-level operators in system operations, diagnostics, and documentation.
Lead shift teams and support scheduling, SOP development, and training programs.
Collaborate with maintenance, engineering, and energy teams to execute plant-wide initiatives.
Monitor energy consumption, steam losses, and system performance metrics.
Recommend and support energy efficiency upgrades including heat recovery, insulation, and system automation.
Serve as a technical advisor in utility system upgrades and expansions.
Expert-level boiler operations and steam system troubleshooting
Compliance with safety, environmental, and boiler codes
Training and leadership of plant utility operators
Optimization of energy, water, and fuel usage
Emergency response and operational risk mitigation
Reliability-centered maintenance and documentation excellence
High school diploma or GED required
Technical degree or boiler operations certification preferred
State/municipal First-Class or Chief Engineer Boiler License required (as applicable)
7–10+ years of experience operating and maintaining industrial steam systems
Experience in a regulated industry (F&B, pharmaceutical, or chemical manufacturing) strongly preferred
Hands-on experience with SCADA/BMS platforms and advanced boiler instrumentation
Deep understanding of boiler combustion systems, safety interlocks, and water chemistry
Skilled in equipment diagnostics, piping systems, burner tuning, and instrumentation calibration
Proficient in control panel navigation, system trending, and compliance logkeeping
Strong leadership, mentoring, and situational awareness
High attention to safety, regulatory detail, and team collaboration
Capable of responding effectively under pressure and during emergencies