Job Summary
Location: Detroit, MI
The Chilled Water Plant Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of a large-scale central chilled water plant supplying comfort cooling to the Renaissance Center complex. This role involves operating and maintaining high-pressure centrifugal chillers, river-water cooling systems, heat exchangers, pumping equipment, electrical substations, and steam-related auxiliary systems. The operator performs routine monitoring, preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, and documentation to ensure optimal plant performance and regulatory compliance.
Key Accountabilities
Chiller and Cooling Equipment Operation
Operate and monitor seven high-pressure York YK centrifugal chillers with a combined capacity of 14,000 tons.
Operate two shell-and-tube free-cooling heat exchangers providing 2,000 tons of cooling capacity.
Maintain proper chilled water production, temperature control, and system efficiency.
River Water & Condenser Water Systems
Utilize river water for condenser water supply through six centrifugal split-case pumps, each rated at 5,000 GPM @ 95 ft head.
Operate and maintain river water pumps with a total capacity of 30,000 GPM.
Inspect, clean, and maintain traveling water screens and associated auxiliary equipment to ensure uninterrupted water flow and debris removal.
Electrical & Steam System Monitoring
Monitor steam equipment and associated billing meters for accuracy and operational integrity.
Maintain and monitor substation equipment located in both the chilled water plant and pump house.
Report abnormalities and coordinate with electrical and steam system specialists as needed.
Preventative Maintenance & Work Management
Complete assigned preventative maintenance tasks on mechanical, electrical, and water-side equipment.
Track and update work orders, parts usage, and inventory within the maintenance management system.
Assist in troubleshooting equipment failures and support corrective maintenance activities.
Daily Rounds & System Performance Tracking
Perform daily operational rounds including:
Chiller operating data
System flows and temperatures
kW usage and energy performance
Cumulative water usage
Equipment efficiency readings
Safety and operational checks
Water chemistry sampling and adjustments
Document findings and escalate issues requiring attention.
Qualifications
- High School diploma or equivalent
- First Class Refrigeration License
- At least 5 years' experience in utility complex operations
- Shift work is required, and employees will be required to perform both operation and routine maintenance of the utility complex equipment
DTE Energy
2000 2nd Ave
Detroit
Michigan United States
www.dteenergy.com
