Lead Boiler & Chiller Operator

The Lead Operator oversees the contractor's boiler and chiller operator team at the Joseph Maxwell Cleland VA Medical Center in Atlanta, Georgia. This role ensures compliant, continuous 24/7 operation of the Central Utility Plant's high-pressure steam boilers and chiller systems. The Lead Operator serves as the primary point of contact with the VA Contracting Officer's Representative (COR), managing staffing, scheduling, and performance to meet VA requirements. This position will supervise three dual-qualified operators unless scheduled to serve as an operator for a specific shift. Key Responsibilities Staffing and Scheduling: Coordinate and assign 12-hour shifts (Shift A: 12:00 AM - 12:00 PM; Shift B: 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM) for three dual-qualified operators, following the rotation pattern (Sunday-Tuesday, Thursday-Saturday, alternating Wednesdays). Ensure continuous coverage of all assigned shifts, including during staff illness, absences, or emergencies. Provide emergency staffing response within 24 hours to maintain minimum staffing levels (two qualified operators on duty at all times). Liaison with VA: Serve as the primary point of contact with the VA COR for all operational and contractual matters. Communicate shift schedules, staffing updates, and operational issues promptly. Submit required documentation, including daily logs, incident reports, and maintenance records, as prepared by operators. Performance Oversight: Ensure operator compliance with VHA Directive 1810, OSHA standards, NFPA 85, ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, and The Joint Commission Environment of Care standards. Monitor operator performance to meet VA standards, including zero tolerance for unattended high-pressure boilers and zero unplanned outages due to operator error. Address and resolve staff issues, such as absences or performance deficiencies, to maintain operational continuity. Facilitate corrective actions for any identified deficiencies or safety violations. Operational Support (When Scheduled as Operator): If assigned to an operator shift, perform all duties outlined in the Boiler and Chiller Operator Job Description, including: Operating and monitoring Cleaver-Brooks boilers (10,000 lb/hr each) and Trane/York chillers (1,000-ton each). Conducting equipment inspections, preventive maintenance, and emergency response. Logging data per the 8th Edition of the BEI Safety Device Testing Manual and VA standards. Engaging with boiler plant components (DA tanks, condensate tanks, etc.) for monitoring and operator-level maintenance. Compliance and Safety: Ensure all contractor staff adhere to VA infection control, safety, and emergency response procedures. Verify that operators wear appropriate PPE, remain drug- and alcohol-free, and comply with the tobacco-free campus policy. Confirm that all personnel complete VA-required training (HIPAA, Safety, Infection Control, Fire Response, etc.) and pass fingerprint-based background checks. Administrative Duties: Prepare and submit monthly invoices via the Tungsten/Electronic Invoice Platform, itemizing regular and overtime hours (overtime requires COR pre-approval). Maintain records of operator qualifications, training, and certifications. Ensure the contractor firm maintains necessary business licenses, liability insurance, and compliance with Service Contract Labor Standards. Work Schedule Flexible schedule to oversee operations and coordinate with the VA COR, with availability to address staffing or operational issues 24/7. May be scheduled for 12-hour operator shifts (Shift A: 12:00 AM - 12:00 PM; Shift B: 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM) as needed to meet operational requirements. Qualifications Minimum of five (5) years of experience operating high-pressure boilers (125 psi) and industrial chillers, with demonstrated ability to perform all Boiler and Chiller Operator duties. Meet OPM standards for WG-5402, Boiler Plant Operator, WG-9 grade equivalent or higher. Completed VA "Safe Steaming Course" (or equivalent) within the past five years or must complete upon assignment. Familiarity with the 8th Edition of the BEI Safety Device Testing Manual and VHA Boiler and Associated Plant Safety Device Testing Manual. Proven experience in managing or supervising utility plant operations, preferably in a healthcare or hospital setting. Strong organizational and communication skills to coordinate schedules, liaise with VA staff, and manage contractor personnel. Physical capability to climb stairs and lift 50 lbs (if performing operator duties). Fluency in English (reading, writing, speaking). Ability to pass fingerprint-based background checks and wear VA-provided security badges. Completion of annual VA training (HIPAA, Safety, Infection Control, Fire Response, etc.) before unsupervised duty. Working Conditions Work primarily performed at the Central Utility Plant, 1670 Clairmont Road, Decatur, GA 30033, with access to the shared Central Plant Control Booth. Access to VA-provided equipment, tools, chemicals, BMS, radios/telephones, SOPs, and manuals. Must be available to respond to emergencies and staffing issues outside regular hours. Performance Standards Ensure zero tolerance for unattended high-pressure boilers. Maintain zero unplanned outages due to operator error or failure to monitor systems. Ensure accurate and timely submission of logs, reports, and invoices. Achieve full compliance with VA regulations and standards, with immediate corrective action for any deficiencies.