Job Information
The Ritedose Corporation Utilities Technician in Columbia, South Carolina
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
Qualifications
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.