Careers at Lehigh

Lehigh University's Facilities team keeps a historic, research-intensive campus running around the clock — and that takes skilled people who know how to work with their hands and their minds. If you're ready to build a trade career with real depth, this apprenticeship puts you on the path to becoming a fully qualified Boiler Operator at two of Lehigh's central heating and cooling plants.

Position Number: S71200

This position is a Grade: 8 - 40 with an approximate salary range of $47,570-$57,090 and is subject to change based on experience, skills and qualifications.

What You'll Be Learning and Doing

• Train under experienced operators across both the APC and MTC Central Heating and Refrigeration boiler plants
• Develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to operate boiler systems safely and efficiently
• Assist boiler operators with routine daily tasks, plant monitoring, and equipment checks
• Monitor gauges, meters, and control panels to track plant performance and identify irregularities
• Perform basic maintenance tasks including lubrication, cleaning, and minor equipment adjustments under supervision
• Record operational data, log readings, and maintain accurate shift documentation
• Support chemical treatment processes for boiler water quality under the guidance of senior operators
• Respond to plant alarms and assist in diagnosing and resolving operational issues
• Follow all safety protocols, lockout/tagout procedures, and environmental compliance requirements
• Build toward the competency required to cover for operators across both facilities when needed

What You'll Bring

• High School Diploma or GED; Associates or Vocational/Technical Degree in Mechanical Trades is preferred
• A genuine interest in building a long-term career in the trades, specifically in boiler or mechanical plant operations
• Basic mechanical aptitude and a hands-on approach to learning
• A strong commitment to workplace safety and following operational procedures
• Reliable, dependable work habits and a team-first attitude
• Valid Driver's License and good driving record
• Solid foundational math skills sufficient for reading measurements, calculating quantities, and interpreting plant data
• The ability to write legibly for the purpose of maintaining accurate shift logs and operational records
• Basic computer skills to support data entry, reporting, and plant monitoring systems

Why Lehigh

Lehigh University is a place where the work you do genuinely matters. The Facilities department is the backbone of a campus that never stops, and tradespeople here are respected for the expertise they carry. As a full-time staff member, you'll have access to Lehigh's generous benefits package, including substantial paid leave and tuition benefits that extend to employees and their families — a meaningful advantage for anyone committed to ongoing development. You'll be mentored by operators who know these plants inside and out, gaining structured on-the-job training in a stable, long-term role at one of Pennsylvania's most respected universities.

Lehigh University is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate. We are committed to a culturally and intellectually diverse community and we seek qualified candidates to contribute to the university’s mission. 

Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing an accommodation for any part of the interview or hiring process may contact Lehigh's Accommodations Specialist.

Special Considerations

• This position is considered Essential Services Staff; Essential Services Staff are required to report to campus and remain during inclement weather and other emergency situations; they are defined as those needed to deliver student services and maintain campus facilities, campus safety and security.
• The duties of the position do not allow for a remote work option; the employee in this position will be required to work on campus where they can be fully accessible to the Lehigh community.

Successful completion of standard background checks including but not limited to: social security verification, education verification, national criminal background checks, motor vehicle checks, PATCH, FBI fingerprinting, Child Abuse Clearance and credit history based upon the requirements of the position.

Only complete applications will be considered therefore please complete the application in its entirety.  Once the posting is removed from the website applications may no longer be allowed to be completed.