HVAC Utility Operator for Boilers & Chillers

Compensation Grade:

T19

Salary Range:

$35.01-$45.50

Opening Date:

September 18, 2026

Closing Date:

Please Note: All job announcements close at 11:59 p.m. of the day before the posted closing date.

As an HVAC Utility Operator, you will maintain the safe and efficient operation of industrial boilers, chillers, heat pumps, and other HVAC equipment.

HVAC Utility Operator

This is a journey (full performance) level job in the HVAC series.

Works under the direction of the HVAC Operator in Charge when on duty evening, night, and weekend shifts. Works under the direct supervision of the HVAC Operator Group Supervisor. May take direction from the Air Conditioning Group Supervisor or the HVAC Mechanics and Controls Group Supervisor.

Serves in the Utilities Division in the Engineering and Maintenance Department at Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD).

Maintains the safe and efficient operation of industrial high-temperature and pressure hot-water boilers, chillers, and thermal ice-making machines, as well as roof-top units, heat pumps, electric or gas-fed heaters, and air handlers. When on evening, night, and weekend shifts, responds to emergency and trouble calls. Completes work orders as an HVAC Operator on the day shift. Performs preventive maintenance evenings, nights, or weekends if not responding to emergencies or troubleshooting, as directed. Performs related functions.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Receives after-business-hours work requests (trouble calls); takes appropriate action(s) for HVAC-related requests. Refers non-HVAC requests to duty personnel in other disciplines.

Records readings of meters and gauges on high-pressure boilers, chillers, thermo ice-storage machines, and control panels. Adjusts controls as needed.  Operates and troubleshoots issues with industrial boilers and high temp high pressure generators and auxiliary equipment.

Advises the HVAC Operator in Charge and HVAC Supervisor when major malfunctions occur or when safety controls are not operating properly.

Advises the Interior Electrician of power-related issues and alarms affecting equipment.

Restarts boilers and chillers following power outages. 

Responds to miscellaneous alarm panels for electrical and water distribution systems.

Makes rounds of various machine rooms to ensure that the HVAC equipment is operating properly and makes minor repairs or adjustments.

Responds to trouble calls and troubleshoots malfunctioning HVAC equipment.

Performs preventive maintenance on HVAC equipment.

Applies the theories, principles, requirements, and standards of the trade and uses the full range of tools of the trade.

Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Four years of progressively responsible experience in operating, monitoring, or maintaining industrial central plant (not domestic) heating and cooling systems using high temperature-high pressure hot water generators, industrial chillers, and chilled water storage tanks in hot and chilled water production.

Two of the four years of experience must be in safely servicing, troubleshooting, and operating all central plant auxiliary equipment, including air compressors, pumps, cooling towers, and heat exchanges.

Knowledge of and ability to apply boiler and generator safety controls, and troubleshooting.

Ability to start and stop equipment using the Building Automated System (BAS).

Ability to make decisions, take action, or direct the actions of others to maintain or restore service.

Knowledge of the principles and operating characteristics of central plant heating and air-conditioning systems and the skill to perform journey-level work.

Skill in using tools, technical manuals, schematics, blueprints, manufacturer’s materials, and other equipment and guides in journey-level HVAC work.

Ability to analyze data and information (including blueprints and schematics).

Ability to work safely and knowledge of the safety rules, regulations, and procedures to do so.

Ability to speak and write effectively.

Skill in using a computer, computerized work order, and time and attendance system.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Licensed as a Maryland Stationary Engineer - Grade 1.

Licensed as a District of Columbia Class 3 - Steam and Hot Water Heating Boiler Engineer.

Licensed as a Journey-level HVAC Mechanic.

Universal Certification (Section 608) to service HVAC/refrigeration equipment from the Environmental Protection Agency.

EDUCATION

A high school diploma or a Certificate of General Educational Development (GED).

CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES REQUIRED

A state driver’s license in good standing.

Universal Certification (Section 608) to service HVAC/refrigeration equipment from the Environmental Protection Agency within 90 days of hire, promotion, or placement in the job.

NECESSARY SPECIAL FACTORS

Must maintain certification.

Operates vehicle airside and landside (requires AOA permit).

Work is typically reviewed in progress and upon completion for quantity, quality, timeliness, teamwork, customer service, and other factors.

Work requires moderate to heavy physical exertion (lifting objects up to 75 pounds). May bend, stoop, crouch, and work in a cramped position.

May be subject to potential hazards common to the airport environment and HVAC systems, such as fumes, hazardous chemicals, noise from jet aircraft, high-pressure boilers and HVAC units, burns or scalds, falls, and danger of moving equipment. Wears personal protective gear, as necessary.

Is subject to hold-over and recall on a 24-hour basis for essential services and emergencies, such as snow removal.

WHAT WE OFFER

A career with the Airports Authority comes with more than just a paycheck it offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family’s health, financial security, and professional growth. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; well-being resources; health savings and flexible spending accounts; pension and retirement plans; and ongoing training and development opportunities. Discover more about our benefits package here.

A background security investigation will be required for all new hires.

Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer.| Follow us on Twitter @MWAAcareers.