Job Description

This position is a part of the Non-Academic Staff Association (NASA).


A market supplement in the amount of 15.4% will be added to the annual salary. Including the supplement, the salary range is

$84,370.05 to $126,000.74.

This position offers a comprehensive benefits package.

Location -

This role is in-person at North Campus, Edmonton.

Position Summary

The University of Alberta Utilities Department is seeking a Cooling Plant Operator for the Chilled Water Plant Operations. The campus Chilled Water system includes the Cooling Plant, the Cooling Plant on Campus, and a Thermal Energy Storage facility, providing a combined capacity of 41, 000 tons of cooling.


Reporting to the Chilled Water Systems Supervisor, the Cooling Plant Operator is responsible for the safe, reliable and efficient production and distribution of chilled water across the Greater Campus Area, including North Campus and the surrounding medical precinct (University of Alberta Hospital, Cross Cancer Institute and others). This role is critical to supporting essential campus functions such as research activities, medical and diagnostic equipment, laboratories and healthcare facilities by ensuring the safe, reliable and efficient delivery of chilled water.


Operating one of the largest campus district energy systems in North America, the utilities team plays a vital role in maintaining and advancing the infrastructure that serves over 70,000 people daily. Their efforts ensure efficient and sustainable energy services across the campus and greater campus area.Operates the Central Cooling Plant and the Cooling Plant On Campus, including eleven 2000 ton and four 3500 ton centrifugal chillers, five cooling towers, more than 40 pumps of various sizes, filtration systems, water treatment system and associated piping systems. Operates the Thermal Energy Storage System including an 8 million gallon tank, three pumps and all connected header and piping infrastructure. Controls and monitors the Cooling Plants, Thermal Energy Storage System and the Service Corridor using a Distributed Control System (DCS) with approximately 2, 000 data points and 80 screen displays. Interprets DCS information, makes informed operating decisions and adjusts system performance to ensure safe and efficient operation. Monitors safety and security systems and initiates emergency operating procedures when alarms or system upsets occur. Prepares, isolates and secures equipment for maintenance activities including issuing Safe Work Clearances and ensuring equipment is made safe for trades. Returns equipment to service following maintenance, verifying proper operation and system readiness. Logs plant operations conditions including steam and chilled water metering, electrical consumption and make-up water usage. Participates in maintenance of plant equipment such as pumps, compressors, valves, piping systems and heat exchangers. Provides backup emergency operations for the campus Heating Plant. Valid Third Class Power Engineering Certificate Greater than 5 years of related experience preferred Additional training in safety equipment, first aid, CPR certification, fire extinguisher training, WHIMIS and MSDS is preferred Thorough working knowledge of all equipment related to the production of chilled water Familiarity with the Windows environment using MS Office applications (Word, Excel and Outlook) and the Internet

Application Instructions

Click "Apply Now" to submit your cover letter and resume.


The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Metis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.




The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.




Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people - from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.




At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms--physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of belonging and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.




The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Metis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.




L'Universite de l'Alberta s'engage a creer une communaute universitaire ou chaque personne se sent valorisee, ou les obstacles a la reussite sont elimines et ou des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se developper. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiees. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premieres nations, Metis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapees; personnes de toute orientation sexuelle ou identite et expression de genre; et toutes les personnes qui peuvent contribuer a la diversification des idees et a l'universite a postuler.