FACILITIES SERVICES
Job Description
Campus Engineering & Operations
Power Plant Mechanic Lead
Job Code: 8881 – Contract Classified
Department Introduction:
Campus Engineering provides professional engineering support for the design, construction, operation and maintenance
of all University facilities. Campus Operations maintains and operates critical building systems including fire/life safety
systems, elevator systems, building environmental systems and controls, central clock systems, high voltage distribution
systems, and a utility shutdown coordination program. Campus Operations also provides emergency maintenance
response service to the Seattle campus community, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Campus Utilities produces steam,
emergency electrical power, chilled water, and compressed air for the campus.
Job Purpose:
Lead and work with Power Plant Mechanics, Power Plant Master Mechanics and other journey workers with related skills
to perform journey-level work in support of the operation, maintenance, repair, and alteration, of the University of
Washington Power Plant. May respond to emergency calls.
Duties and Responsibilities:
 Lead and assign work to journey-level Power Plant Mechanics, Power Plant Master Mechanics and semi-skilled
personnel, for work related to the operation, maintenance, repair and alteration of systems within the Power Plant
 On an intermittent or seasonal basis, assign, direct and oversee boiler maintenance and other maintenance work
performed by Power Plant Operating Engineers I and other trades personnel
 Schedule maintenance and repair work in a continuously operating power plant with a full understanding of the
impact of the work on the operations of the plant
 Coordinate with contractors working in the Power Plant facility
 Troubleshoot and develop solutions to repair and maintenance problems on complex power plant systems such
as the 5000 kW steam turbine generator, 425 psi 650 degree superheated steam distribution system, 550 psi high
pressure feed water system, and multiple 2000 Ton capacity centrifugal chillers
 Inspect maintenance and repair work in the power plant including work in confined spaces such as boiler steam
and mud drums, boiler fireboxes, flue gas ductwork, fuel oil storage tanks, hotwells, and water treatment tanks
 Identify and enforce safe work practices within the shop, review jobs as necessary to identify potential work
hazards and requirements for proper personal protective equipment, ensure compliance with MSDS program
 Develop methods and procedures to be followed by assigned personnel
 Read and interpret plans, blueprints and sketches
 Order shop and project parts and supplies as required
 Assist manager/supervisor with identifying and resolving performance issues and evaluating worker performance
 May assist with employment interviews and make hiring recommendations
 Attend meetings and training sessions as required
 Perform journey duties of the trade, may perform work in other trade skills, perform related duties as required
 Perform other duties as assigned
 Regular and predictable attendance is required
Core Competencies:
 Demonstrate personal integrity and trustworthiness
 Manage stressful situations and changing priorities effectively
 Anticipate, recognize and resolve problems
 Be responsible and accountable
 Use organizational skills and provide attention to details
 Maintain a positive, optimistic and success-oriented attitude
 Exercise professional demeanor, which includes being tactful and courteous
 Exhibit a professional work ethic
 Continuously promote a safe work environment
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Required Skills, Experience and Knowledge:
 One year, full-time experience as a journey Machinery Mechanic or Machinery Master Mechanic, or equivalent
trade skill
 Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator's license may be required
 Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal
requirements, such as a license/certification/registration
 Experience as a Machinery Mechanic working on complex and critical systems in a power plant or comparable
facility, must have a thorough understanding on how to work safely on steam systems
 Working knowledge of asbestos and lead hazards and abatement coordination
 Have knowledge and understand of safe work practices and policies
 Must be able to wear all proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as required
 Must be able to follow written and/or verbal instructions and communicate in English regarding the use of
chemicals, supplies, and equipment; comply with safety policies and procedures
Desirable Skills, Experience and Knowledge:
 Five or more years as a Power Plant Mechanic with turbine and diesel generator maintenance experience
 Trade experience should also include welding, pipefitting, and steam fitting
Conditions of Employment:
 A satisfactory outcome from a criminal background verification will be required prior to hire
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