Watch Engineer - (Must have a valid NYC Stationary Engineer License)

Columbia University
United States, New York, New York
Oct 24, 2025
Job Type: Support Staff - Union Bargaining Unit: TWU - B&G Regular/Temporary: Regular Hours Per Week: 40 Standard Work Schedule: Sunday - Thursday, 6:00 am - 2:30 pm Building: Central Energy Plant Salary Range: $67.41 - $67.41 The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. Position Summary The Watch Engineer is responsible for the safe and reliable operation, preventive maintenance, and corrective repair of high-pressure steam-generating and chiller systems. Will be required to lead, perform, and/or assist in any routine and emergency operations function of the steam/chiller plant, and will oversee Assistant Watch engineers. Duties of the watch Engineer cover, but not limited to, proper rounds, log entries, proper start up and shut down procedures in accordance with University policy. The Watch Engineer may work across campuses as needed. Responsibilities Shall be proficient in the employment of all tools, methods, and materials pertaining to electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic controls and instruments for steam generators (boilers), chillers, and associated systems within the plant. Maintain, repair, and operate system equipment, auxiliary systems, and utilize computer-monitoring systems while working independently or under limited supervision and direction in accordance with sound engineering practices. Works in collaboration with all plant-related trades and management. Observes the electrical switchboard and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) and/or BMS system to inform decisions on system operations. Maintain a clean and organized work environment. Must perform any duties assigned in an emergency within the job classification. Oversight with direct and continuing supervision and development of the individual's progression assigned to the plant. Schedule requirements: Maybe required to work a variety of shifts/schedules. Available to work overtime Available for emergency calls or open shifts Must be available for shifts on weekends, holidays. Emergency conditions and weather conditions, in compliance with "State of Emergency Memorandum of Agreement". Minimum Qualifications High school graduate or equivalent. Has a minimum of one (1) year of plant operations & maintenance. Current NYC Stationary Engineer license for high-pressure steam. Current NYC Refrigeration System Operations Certificate of Qualification. All Licenses and certifications required by the city, state, and governing agencies. Preferred Qualifications: Has two (2) years of internal CU experience in plant operations and maintenance. Has external four (4) years of operations experience with gas and oil-fired high-pressure steam boilers, absorption, mechanical, centrifugal chiller machines, and/or building management system (BMS) controls. Has four (4) years of maritime/navy experience in plant operations & maintenance. Holds a Marine Engineer certificate from the United States Coast Guard. Has an Associate's or higher Degree in plant operations & maintenance or equivalent. Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.