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Heating Plant Operator

South Dakota State Government

Redfield, SD

Posted/Updated: 10 days ago

Job Description
Job ID: 30506
Agency: SD Developmental Center
Location: Redfield, SDSalary: $17.01 - $18.90 Hourly, depending on qualifications
Pay Grade: D
Closing Date: 03/04/2025

About SDDC:

The South Dakota Developmental Center is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and community inclusion for people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities through person-centered services. At SDDC we are comprised of a variety of positions that require differing skill and educational levels to ensure successful operations. SDDC is one of the Divisions of the Department of Human Services, which works together on the common goal of bettering the lives of South Dakotans.

SDDC strives to create an environment where people are inspired and challenged to create excellence, grow their skills, discover advancement opportunities, and are rewarded for their contributions. Join our team as we focus on helping our fellow human beings overcome adversity and reach their full potential.

Our Benefits Include:

  • 15 days/120 Hours of Vacation Leave
  • 14 days/112 Hours of Sick Leave
  • 11 Paid Holidays
  • Employee health insurance includes plan with a $0 premium for employee-only coverage
  • Flexible Benefits - Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Critical Illness and more
  • Paid Parental & Family Medical Leave
  • 6% Fully Matched Retirement Plan
  • Reduced Tuition for In-State Colleges/Universities
  • Employee Wellness Program
  • Continued Education/Training Opportunities


Click to view additional benefits information: https://bhr.sd.gov/job-seekers/work-for-state-government/index.html

Job Summary:

The State of South Dakota is seeking a dedicated Heating Plant Operator to operate and maintain stationary equipment such as steam boilers to provide essential utilities, including heat and power, for state buildings. The ideal candidate will ensure the smooth operation of power boiler plants, auxiliary equipment, and distribution systems while performing regular maintenance and safety checks.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Operate power boiler plants, auxiliary equipment, transmission, and distribution systems to maintain proper heating, air conditioning, refrigeration, and ventilation.
  • Monitor the operation of boilers, pumps, motors, combustion control equipment, and related mechanical components.
  • Start up and shut down equipment as needed to meet operational demands.
  • Monitor meters, gauges, and other instruments, making necessary adjustments to maintain specified operating conditions.
  • Test boiler water and apply necessary chemicals to prevent corrosion or build-up of deposits.
  • Maintain detailed logs and records of system operations and maintenance activities.
  • Conduct preventive maintenance on boilers, pumps, motors, compressors, valves, water softeners, and all safety and regulating equipment.
  • Assist in troubleshooting, repairs, and emergency response situations.


The Ideal Candidate Will Have:

  • Boiler Operator License
  • Knowledge of the methods, tools, and equipment used in maintaining and repairing boilers and heating systems.
  • Understanding of appropriate safety precautions related to heating plant operations.
  • Ability to regulate and adjust operating controls to maintain efficient system performance.
  • Experience operating and maintaining various types of power plant equipment.
  • Strong problem-solving skills to detect, identify, and correct mechanical issues.
  • Ability to perform standard inspections, make minor adjustments, and conduct routine maintenance.

Knowledge of:

  • the methods, tools, and equipment used in maintaining and repairing boilers and equipment;
  • appropriate safety precautions;
  • regulating and adjusting operating controls.


Skills to:

  • Verify fire extinguishers are in good working condition
  • Confirm functionality of fire systems


Ability to:

  • operate and maintain various types of power plant equipment;
  • perform standard inspections and make minor adjustments to boilers and related equipment;
  • follow and carry out instructions and to prepare standard reports;
  • perform minor repair or maintenance work on mechanical systems.

This position is eligible for Veterans' Preference per ARSD 55:10:02:08.

Successful applicant(s) will undergo an abuse and neglect screening.

NCRC: If you possess a National Career Readiness Certificate, please submit the certificate with your application. For more information on how to acquire a National Career Readiness Certificate contact a South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation Job Service Office. A certificate is not necessary to be considered.

The State of South Dakota does not sponsor work visas for new or existing employees. All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete an Employment Eligibility Verification, Form I-9. The State of South Dakota as an employer will be using E-Verify to complete employment eligibility verification upon hire.

The State of South Dakota offers $0 premium employee health insurance option plus eleven paid holidays, generous vacation and sick leave accrual, dental, vision, and other insurance options, and retirement benefits. You can view our benefits information at https://bhr.sd.gov/job-seekers/work-for-state-government/ . This position is a member of Class A retirement under SDRS.

Must apply online: https://gen-stateofsouthdako-trn.inforcloudsuite.com/hcm/xmlhttp/shorturl.do?key=15N
You must apply online, emailed resumes or submissions will not be accepted.
South Dakota Bureau of Human Resources
Telephone: 605.773.3148 Email: careers@state.sd.us
http://bhr.sd.gov/workforus
"An Equal Opportunity Employer"

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South Dakota State Government
500 East Capitol Avenue
Pierre, SD 57501