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1St Class Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Quality Engineer

Livonia, MI

$67K - $87K/yr

From our global offices on four continents, we match first class talent with the best job opportunities in Engineering, Construction, Manufacturing, Healthcare and IT. In a market where demand for ...

New

Controls Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$100K - $118K/yr

Controls Engineer The Opportunity As a Controls Engineer, you will play a critical role in ... Only the top provider of first-class HR solutions. Our consultants work with some of the best, and ...

Process Engineer

Cadillac, MI · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

A first-class automotive equipment and systems manufacturer specializing in fluid management ... Engineering degree in technical discipline strengthened by a prior work experience in Engineering ...

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Showing results 1-20

1St Class Engineer information

What is a 1st class engineer?

A 1st Class Engineer is a highly skilled professional responsible for operating, maintaining, and supervising complex mechanical, electrical, or boiler systems in facilities such as power plants, factories, or large buildings. They hold top-level certification or licensing, indicating advanced knowledge and experience in their field. Their duties often include ensuring safety compliance, troubleshooting equipment issues, overseeing junior staff, and conducting regular inspections. This role requires a deep understanding of technical systems and adherence to strict regulatory standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 1st class engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 1st Class Engineer, you need in-depth knowledge of building systems, mechanical and electrical maintenance, and a 1st Class Engineer license or equivalent certification. Familiarity with HVAC controls, computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), and regulatory compliance tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient building operations and minimizing downtime in complex facility environments.

What are some common challenges faced by a 1st class engineer in maintaining building systems?

A 1st Class Engineer often encounters challenges such as troubleshooting complex mechanical or electrical issues, managing emergency repairs under time constraints, and ensuring all building systems comply with safety regulations. Balancing preventative maintenance with urgent repairs can require strong organizational skills. Additionally, effective communication with building management and other maintenance staff is key to maintaining smooth operations and minimizing downtime.
Infographic showing various 1St Class Engineer job openings in Michigan as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Engineer - First Class

Detroit, MI • On-site

Wayne State University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees

$37.18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Wayne State University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

290th of 633 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Engineer - First Class
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Engineer - First Class at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
Essential functions (job duties):
POSITION PURPOSE
Perform highly skilled work in the repair, operation and maintenance of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, mechanical equipment, pneumatic control systems, building electrical systems, plumbing systems and DDC systems throughout the University.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Operate and monitor environmental systems for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, water, lighting, cooling tower water chemical maintenance and building security systems. Access units in windows, on rooftops, above ceilings, behind walls, in crawl spaces or closets, etc.; use appropriate safety precautions, which may require wearing a ventilator; evaluate equipment and order parts; ensure fire prevention consistent with specifications and energy guidelines.
Perform preventive maintenance on equipment. Troubleshoot heating/ventilation and air conditioning systems; make necessary repairs to ensure proper environmental temperatures and maximize service life of equipment; manipulate equipment using hand tools to access parts.
Check and repair pumps, condensate tanks, valves, water heaters, sump pumps, reducing stations, swimming pool equipment, boilers and plumbing systems. Access equipment which may be at any eight and in any location on campus; inspect systems; diagnose problems; obtain and install replacement parts to ensure efficient operation; work with hand tools and at any angle.
Clean all plenum chambers, fans, boiler rooms and other areas designated for heating and ventilation use.
Clean and change air filters. Access filter chambers which may be located at any height and angle with cumbersome boxes containing replacement filters; adjust and replace belts on equipment. Align pump/motor couplings. Replace steam traps. Control flow by opening and closing gate, globe and/or butterfly valves; respond to emergencies such as floods, fires, equipment failures, etc. and assess the situation and determine how to minimize harm to equipment, ventilation systems, facilities, and people; supervise response; perform repairs as necessary.
Maintain communication with building personnel necessary for proper maintenance and operation of buildings; respond to calls for service; open and close dampers; generate work orders to have additional work done and follow through on its completion; coordinate repair work on existing heating/ventilation and air conditioning systems; work with architects and engineers to develop systems for new construction. Prepare and maintain records, logs and work requests.
All Operating Engineers are considered to be "Essential Personnel," and are required to report during a university emergency closure period.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
High school graduate or equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
Graduate of Stationary Engineer Trade School or recognized apprentice program.
Possession of unlimited First Class Steam Engineer's license from the City of Detroit.
Reasonable related experience in pipe fitting, general maintenance, electrical maintenance and testing.
Refrigeration experience preferred.
Some experience on HVAC system controls, electrical systems, piping systems and DDC Control systems.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints.
Ability to access equipment which may be at any height and angle from below ground level to several stories high.
Ability to work in varying environmental and possible hazardous working conditions utilizing appropriate safety precautions.
Must obtain security clearance
School/College/Division:
H42 - Facilities Plan & Manage
Primary department:
H4241 - Facilities Operations Zone 1
Employment type:
  • Regular Employee
  • Job type: Full Time
  • Job category: Staff/Administrative
Funding/salary information:
  • Compensation type: Hourly Wage
  • Hourly rate: $37.18
  • Salary minimum: N/A
  • Salary hire maximum: N/A
Job openings:
  • Number of openings: 2
  • Reposted position: No
  • Reposted reason: None (New Requisition)
Background check requirements:
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.
Equal employment opportunity statement:
Wayne State University provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation, familial status, marital status, height, weight, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. The university welcomes applications from persons with disabilities and veterans. Wayne State is an equal opportunity employer.

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