The Salk Institute for Biological Studies is one of the world’s preeminent basic research institutions, where internationally renowned faculty probe fundamental life science questions in a unique, collaborative, and creative environment. Focused on both discovery and mentoring future generations of researchers, Salk scientists make groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of cancer, aging, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders by studying neuroscience, genetics, cell and plant biology, and related disciplines.
Faculty achievements have been recognized with numerous honors, including Nobel Prizes and memberships in the National Academy of Sciences. Founded in 1960 by polio vaccine pioneer Jonas Salk, M.D., the Institute is an independent nonprofit organization and architectural landmark. We are currently seeking a Maintenace Mechanic II to support the Facilities department at the Institute.
Under general supervision, position is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the central heating and central cooling plant consisting of absorption chillers, centrifugal chillers, boilers, steam generators, pumps, variable frequency drives, hydronic piping systems, cooling towers, and other similar equipment. Incumbent utilizes an Energy Management Control System (EMCS) to optimize equipment operation. Performs journey level repairs to main central plant equipment such as boilers, absorption chillers, centrifugal chillers, and steam generators. Performs complete overhauls of air compressors, vacuum pumps, and diesel engines. Installs and calibrates DDC controls, pneumatic controls and variable frequency drives. Performs in-depth repairs to water softener and reverse osmosis systems. Diagnoses and repairs refrigerated systems, such as refrigerated air driers and process chillers. Responds to various emergency calls, alarms, and customer requests throughout the Institute.
Operates central plant equipment to maintain safe, correct, and efficient operating conditions according to established standards and procedures. Analyzes the operating status of equipment and reports any issues to designated personnel.
Cleans and paints areas and equipment to maintain proper, effective, and safe operation.
Operates building automation systems including chillers, boilers, HVAC equipment, steam generators and cooling towers. Controls and records proper operating temperatures and pressures according to established procedures and practices.
Operates energy management, laboratory monitoring systems, fire alarm and electrical distribution systems.
Operates variable frequency drives and emergency generators.
Maintains and repairs boilers, absorption chillers, centrifugal chillers, steam generators, cooling towers and diesel generators.
Installs, maintains, repairs and replaces: air compressors, vacuum pumps, water heaters, heat exchangers, water softeners, reverse osmosis systems and air driers.
Replaces pumps, pump seals, bearings, motors and fuses.
Performs various maintenance tasks including but not limited to: greasing motors, soldering and braising copper pipe, installing various plastic, copper, and/or stainless steel pipes and tubing, insulating ducts and pipes and unclogging drains.
Moves and installs other equipment as needed. Assists in resolving questions regarding services performed. Refers customer inquiries or complaints tactfully to appropriate area.
Provides expeditious, professional and courteous customer services.
Works with Institute customers and co-workers to accomplish work with a high level of quality and efficiency in a courteous manner that demonstrates professionalism.
Communicates ideas and information orally, in writing and electronically.
Education:
High School graduate/ GED required. Minimum of one year of vocational school or equivalent.
Experience:
Minimum of five years working as a Boiler and Chiller plant operator.
Special Requirements:
Must be willing to work any shift including weekends (6:00a.m. – 2:30p.m., 2:00p.m. – 10:30p.m., 10:00p.m. – 6:30a.m.)
Must join the IUOE (Local 501) on or after the 30th day of regular employment.
Substantial journey level skill and experience in the maintenance and repair of boilers, chillers and other central plant equipment.
Excellent Interpersonal and communication skills, self-motivation, adaptability, tactfulness, and decisiveness.
Ability to work effectively in a service oriented environment subject to frequently changing priorities.
Demonstrated ability to read blueprints.
Basic working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Email.
Works independently on a team, always exercising Institute and professionally established safety precautions.
Understanding of applicable Federal, State, and local laws and regulations pertaining to facilities equipment in use.
Interested applicants please apply online at http://salk.edu/careers/staff_positions.html by July 30, 2010

