Job Details

Senior (Lead) Operations Supervisor District Energy Plant

Position Number: 6849595
Location: Boulder, CO
Position Type: Facilities Management

Senior (Lead) Operations Supervisor District Energy Plant

Requisition Number: 69432
Location: Boulder Colorado
Employment Type: University Staff
Schedule: Full Time
Posting Close Date: 09-Feb-2026
Date Posted:

Job Summary

The University of Colorado Boulder is searching for a Senior Operations Supervisor! This role is responsible for managing daily utility plant operations, leading plant shift supervisors and operators, optimizing processes, and driving continuous improvement to ensure safe and reliable plant systems while maintaining compliance with rules, regulations, and relevant standards.

The District Energy Plant infrastructure includes centralized steam, chilled water, and power generation. Namely boilers, electric chillers, combustion gas turbines, and power systems.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Who We Are

Utility and Energy Services is responsible for the design, operation, maintenance, and repair of the campus's energy generation and distribution infrastructure for steam (heating), chilled water (cooling), and electricity. We provide the campus community with reliable utility services in an efficient and environmentally responsible manner and offer measurement, line locating, performance engineering, regulatory and data management services.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

Oversee and coordinate daily operational activities across multiple district energy plants and distribution systems ensuring smooth workflow, communications, and adherence to schedules.
Supervise, train, and mentor team members; provide feedback and coaching to improve team performance. Administer the operator board qualification training program to ensure operators have high level understanding of plant systems.
Administer regulatory and quality compliance requirements, maintain operational standards, inspections, and plant safety program including plant site security (physical and cyber).
Develop, implement, and revise operational policies and procedures to increase efficiency, productivity, and cost-effectiveness. Monitor and analyze operational data, prepare reports for senior management, and recommend strategies for improvement.
Communicate and coordinate work effectively with operations staff and other utility work groups to achieve program objectives and ensure flawless operations.
Manage annual operations expense budget; ensure alignment with financial requirements, equipment renewal and replacement, contracts, supplies and expenses. Provide annual estimated projections.
Address employee issues, manage conflict resolution, and ensure compliance with HR policies and safety regulations. Handle escalations, resolve operational issues promptly, and act as a lead resource during shifts or periods of increased activity.

What You Should Know

This is a fully in-person position with an anticipated work schedule of Monday - Friday during regular business hours. Schedule is subject to change based on need, including weekends and nights.
This position is expected to report to work during emergency situations, as well as cover shifts and operate any district energy plant if necessary (i.e., coverage due to emergencies or staffing issue).
This position is eligible for our Facilities Management Employee Referral Program.

What We Can Offer

The salary range is $114,000 - $130,000 annually, depending on experience.
Relocation assistance is available according to department guidelines.

Benefits

At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County's largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.

Be Statements

Be adaptable. Be proactive. Be Boulder.

What We Require

Must have a valid Colorado driver's license.
Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Engineering Technology or equivalent combination of education and experience may substitute.
3 years experience working in large scale utility or central plant energy system(s), including two (2) years in a supervisory role. Specifically, plants with multiple boilers greater than 30MMBtu each.

What You Will Need

Show proficiency in computer applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel Spreadsheet.
Demonstrate the ability to use personal (desktop) computers and laptops skillfully.
Good oral and written communication skills.

Special Instructions

To apply, please submit the following materials:

A current resume.
A cover letter that specifically tells us how your background and experience align with the requirements, qualifications, and responsibilities of the position.

We may request references at a later time.

Please apply by February 9, 2026, for consideration.

Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, please apply through CU Boulder Jobs.

In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

To apply, visit https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/JobDetail/Senior-Lead-Operations-Supervisor-District-Energy-Plant/69432