Utilities Technician

The Utilities Technician is responsible for the operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and documentation of critical utility systems supporting sterile pharmaceutical manufacturing operations. This role ensures reliable, compliant, and inspection-ready operation of GMP utilities, including purified water, steam, HVAC, compressed air, and plant support systems.

 

The position requires hands-on technical capability, working knowledge of GMP documentation practices, and the ability to develop and revise Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for utility systems.

 

Responsibilities:

Critical Utility Operation & Monitoring

Operate, monitor, and maintain site utility systems including:

• Boilers and plant steam systems
• Pure steam generator
• Electric steam generators
• Chillers
• RO skid / purified water system
• CDI unit
• WFI stills
• Compressed air systems
• Nitrogen system
• Wastewater treatment system
• Air handling units
• Air rotation units
• Associated pumps, heat exchangers, valves, and control systems

Responsibilities include:

• Performing daily utility rounds and system performance checks
• Monitoring system trends and responding to alarms
• Supporting cleanroom HVAC pressure cascades and temperature/humidity control
• Supporting WFI loop and critical water system monitoring
• Identifying and addressing abnormal system conditions

Secondary Support Systems and Equipment

Operate, monitor, and maintain site support systems and equipment including:

• Elevators
• conveyors
• compactors
• doors and door systems
• other secondary systems used to support the facility operations

 

Maintenance & Troubleshooting

• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on utility equipment
• Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and process-related issues
• Interpret P&IDs, system drawings, and control diagrams
• Execute and document work orders in Epicor
• Support capital projects, equipment upgrades, and shutdown activities
• Coordinate and oversee contractor activities related to utilities

 

SOP Development & Documentation

• Author, revise, and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for utility systems
• Develop preventive maintenance procedures and job plans
• Support creation of troubleshooting guides and system operating instructions
• Ensure documentation meets GMP and regulatory standards
• Participate in deviations, investigations, CAPAs, and change controls
• Assist with commissioning, qualification, and validation documentation

 

GMP Compliance & Inspection Readiness

• Ensure utility systems operate in compliance with GMP requirements
• Maintain inspection-ready utility spaces and documentation
• Support regulatory inspections and internal audits
• Provide technical input for risk assessments and system impact evaluations

 

Safety & Environmental Compliance

• Follow all safety procedures including LOTO, confined space, and hot work permits
• Ensure safe operation of high-pressure steam, hot water, and compressed systems
• Identify and escalate environmental or safety risks

 

• Associates Degree and/or four years experience in industrial HVAC, mechanical systems, or water processing and generation systems in the food or pharmaceutical industries.
• Must have industrial HVAC background. Residential HVAC background alone is not sufficient.
• Possess an understanding of supporting HVAC mechanical systems, such as chillers, air compressors, steam generation equipment, etc.
• Possess an understanding of control systems, including actuators and valves, sensors, and automation controls, and their function in HVAC and automated systems.
• Experience in a manufacturing environment preferred.
• Experience in a pharmaceutical environment is a plus.
• Possess good oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize and perform multiple tasks.
• Ability to work both in a group and independently.
• Understanding of basic computer skills.