
Vicinity Energy
Largest U.S. district energy operator delivering carbon-free steam, hot water, cooling via underground networks.
Utility Operator
Operate and maintain equipment at an Energy‑from‑Waste plant while ensuring safety and compliance.
Job Highlights
About the Role
The Utility Operator role supports daily operations at the Kent County Waste‑to‑Energy facility in Grand Rapids, MI. Reporting to the Chief Engineer, the full‑time, non‑union, non‑exempt position involves maintaining a clean, safe work area and complying with safety, environmental, and operational policies while assisting other departments as needed. • Operate mobile equipment such as loaders, forklifts, and aerial lifts. • Enforce safety procedures and environmental policies on the tipping floor. • Conduct safety and environmental inspections and audits. • Maintain documentation and perform preventative maintenance. • Perform cleaning, painting, and grounds‑keeping tasks. • Assist with boiler outages, plant operations, and maintenance activities. • Work bi‑monthly rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed. • Wear a full‑face respirator due to ash exposure. • Work in confined spaces, climb ladders/structures up to 100 ft, and operate a man‑lift.
Key Responsibilities
- ▸equipment operation
- ▸plant operations
- ▸preventive maintenance
- ▸safety inspections
- ▸safety enforcement
- ▸documentation
What You Bring
• Hold a high school diploma or equivalent and possess good mechanical aptitude. • Related military/technical training or prior power/industrial experience is preferred. • Pass a company‑provided physical and drug test and hold a valid driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record. • Tolerate high temperatures, lift up to 50 lb, and work outdoors in cold weather.
Requirements
- ▸high school
- ▸mechanical
- ▸military training
- ▸driver's license
- ▸physical test
- ▸heavy lifting
Work Environment
Onsite