The Utility Plant Manager – Boiler/Steam is responsible for overseeing the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of the boiler and steam plant within a utility or industrial facility. This leadership role ensures continuous availability of steam and thermal energy for operational needs, while managing a multidisciplinary team and driving performance improvement initiatives. The Plant Manager oversees operations, maintenance, compliance, budgeting, and strategic planning for all boiler and steam generation equipment and associated systems.
Manage day-to-day operations of the boiler and steam utility plant, including staff scheduling, load balancing, and emergency response.
Ensure uninterrupted steam generation and distribution across facilities.
Lead preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance strategies for boilers, deaerators, steam lines, feedwater systems, and condensate return.
Collaborate with reliability, maintenance, and engineering teams to address recurring issues and enhance equipment performance.
Ensure all boiler and pressure equipment complies with local, state, and federal codes (e.g., ASME, OSHA, EPA).
Maintain operational logs, inspection reports, and documentation for audits and licensing.
Monitor and optimize fuel consumption, combustion efficiency, and heat recovery systems to reduce operational costs.
Work closely with energy managers to align plant performance with sustainability and efficiency goals.
Supervise and train boiler operators, technicians, and maintenance personnel.
Develop performance metrics, conduct reviews, and foster a culture of safety, accountability, and teamwork.
Manage plant operations budget including labor, maintenance, fuel, and capital expenses.
Identify cost-saving initiatives without compromising reliability or compliance.
Ensure a safe working environment by enforcing safety protocols, conducting risk assessments, and leading incident investigations.
Maintain and test emergency backup systems (e.g., standby boilers, pressure relief valves).
Lead and coordinate capital projects such as boiler replacements, controls upgrades, and system expansions.
Ensure timely delivery, vendor coordination, and integration with facility operations.
Steam Supply Reliability:
Ensure uninterrupted steam production and delivery for critical operations through robust asset management and redundancy planning.
Boiler Efficiency & Fuel Optimization:
Continuously monitor and improve combustion performance, flue gas recovery, and boiler load management.
Code Compliance & Safety Assurance:
Maintain compliance with ASME BPVC, emissions regulations, pressure vessel inspections, and plant safety standards.
Leadership & Workforce Development:
Build a high-performing operations team with strong technical, safety, and troubleshooting skills.
Thermal System Integration:
Integrate boiler operations with HVAC, chilled water, process heating, and cogeneration systems where applicable.
Maintenance Excellence:
Drive reliability and uptime through predictive maintenance technologies, CMMS optimization, and condition monitoring.
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Engineering, or equivalent.
10–15 years of experience in utility plant operations with extensive exposure to boiler and steam systems.
Licensed Boiler Operator or Stationary Engineer Certification (as applicable to jurisdiction).
Strong knowledge of ASME Boiler Codes, NFPA, API standards, and energy management systems.
Experience with plant SCADA, DCS, or BMS systems for monitoring and controls.
Proven leadership, budgeting, and project management skills.