Utilities Technician

The construction of fairlife's manufacturing facility in Webster, NY is underway. This state-of-the-art, 750k sq ft, greenfield plant is expected to be operational in late 2025 and will lay the foundation for fairlife's next phase of growth as the leading dairy nutrition provider. While coupling the industry's latest technologies and fairlife's operational excellence to build this world-class facility, fairlife plans to hire 250 new employees and bring in approximately 5 million lbs. of milk a day, with room to grow over the coming years.

**Our target start date for this position is March 2025; however, we are flexible with start dates on a case-by-case basis.**

job purpose:

The Lead Utility Operator/SME (Subject Matter Expert) is a crucial role within the Maintenance Department that will be responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable operation across all Utility Equipment in the support of the Webster facility. This includes, but is not limited to, High Pressure Boilers and Steam Systems, Refrigeration and Chilled water systems, HVAC, Domestic and Process water systems, High and Low pressure Compressed Air systems, Electrical systems, Fire Suppression systems and related equipment, Safety Systems, and the Facility in general.

The Lead Utility Operator SME will assist the Utilities Manger with providing technical solutions and expertise to Operations and Maintenance. The SME, in addition to daily operations, will help plan and participate in: Continuous Improvement, Shutdowns and Inspections, Environmental Compliance, Overhaul Maintenance, Design Changes, Capital Projects, Safety Procedures, and Performance Standard creation.

Responsibilities:

• Perform routine system equipment inspections and maintenance, including documentation of operational data, checking and adjusting of operational controls on equipment as necessary.
• Oversee the proper operation of the Domestic and Process water systems, Boilers and Steam distribution system, Air Compressed and distribution systems, Refrigeration and Chilled water system, ensuring adherence to the proper procedures & guidelines.
• Assist in the development of a World Class Utilities Maintenance program, PSM development and Job Planning.
• Assist with repairs and spare parts inventory as needed
• Conduct sampling and testing of Boiler feedwater and chilled water systems, chemical treatment systems, and compressed air systems. This may include the unloading of bulk lubricants or chemicals if necessary.
• Conduct testing and inspections of fire suppression equipment
• Conduct inspections and maintenance of plant safety eyewash/shower equipment.
• Conduct sampling and reporting as required for Environmental Compliance.
• Provide and direct operating support for equipment shutdowns and startups including the securing of equipment using standard LO/TO procedures
• Assist and provide oversight to the Utilities Operator and Facilities Technician when necessary.
• Maintaining equipment and utility spaces to a high level of cleanliness, organization and operable condition.
• Assist with the development of standard operating procedures.

Skills:

• Minimum of 5 years' experience with High pressure steam boilers, chillers, cooling towers, compressed air, water filtration and supply systems.
• Must possess a minimum of 2^nd Class Stationary Engineers License and R-2 Refrigeration License in Good Standing.
• Prior experience with Building Management Systems and Remote Monitoring
• Exhibits a strong mechanical aptitude, proficient in troubleshooting technical issues.
• Ability to read, understand and update P&ID's, mechanical/electrical prints.
• Skilled in organizing resources and establishing priorities.
• Able to maintain confidentiality of records and information.
• Strong proven mechanical and electrical skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
• Ability to assist with organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
• Ability to analyze and assess training and development needs.
• Able to understand and utilize engineering drawings, operating manuals, and blueprints to conduct business.
• Ability to handle ambiguity and work in a fast paced, entrepreneurial environment.
• Ability to work all shifts including off shifts.
• Aseptic/Dairy experience preferred.
• Knowledge of USDA, FDA, State and Federal regulations for a dairy manufacturing facility is a plus.

Working conditions and physical requirements:

• Valid Driver's License
• Ability to lift a minimum of 50 lbs. on an occasional basis
• Ability to stand or walk for extended period
• Climb ladders and work at elevations of 125 feet.
• Ability to become licensed to operate powered industrial trucks and lifts
• Reaching/bending requirements (if any)
• Exposure to hazards (machinery, confined spaces, etc.)
• Specific atmospheric conditions
• Any other physical requirements

Food safety requirements:

• Notify supervision of any repairs or adjustments that are required that may affect product quality or food safety.
• Understand, observe, and comply with the handling and usage of the color-coded container policy while in the Production Areas.
• Perform all duties necessary to meet Company, Customer and/or Government requirements/standards as prioritized by the Company.

Position location:Webster, NY

Reports to: Utilities Manager

Travel requirements:50% to begin than <10%

exempt/nonexempt: nonexempt

base rate: $39.00/ hr

*Base pay offered may vary depending on geography, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. A full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position, is offered.