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1St Class Operating Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Must possess a First Class "B" Minnesota State Engineers license (minimum). Must possess a valid ... of operating engineer technical college apprenticeship program. Licensure/ Registration ...

Operating Engineer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Must possess a First Class "B" Minnesota State Engineers license (minimum). Must possess a valid ... of operating engineer technical college apprenticeship program. Licensure/ Registration ...

$80 - $100/hr

Must possess a First Class "B" Minnesota State Engineers license (minimum). Must possess a valid ... of operating engineer technical college apprenticeship program. Licensure/ Registration ...

Must possess a First Class "B" Minnesota State Engineers license (minimum). Must possess a valid ... of operating engineer technical college apprenticeship program. Licensure/ Registration ...

Must possess a First Class "B" Minnesota State Engineers license (minimum). Must possess a valid ... of operating engineer technical college apprenticeship program. Licensure/ Registration ...

Must possess a First Class "B" Minnesota State Engineers license (minimum). Must possess a valid ... of operating engineer technical college apprenticeship program. Licensure/ Registration ...

Must possess a First Class "B" Minnesota State Engineers license (minimum). Must possess a valid ... of operating engineer technical college apprenticeship program. Licensure/ Registration ...

Must possess a First Class "B" Minnesota State Engineers license (minimum). Must possess a valid ... of operating engineer technical college apprenticeship program. Licensure/ Registration ...

Must possess a First Class "B" Minnesota State Engineers license (minimum). Must possess a valid ... of operating engineer technical college apprenticeship program. Licensure/ Registration ...

Must possess a First Class "B" Minnesota State Engineers license (minimum). Must possess a valid ... of operating engineer technical college apprenticeship program. Licensure/ Registration ...

Must possess a First Class "B" Minnesota State Engineers license (minimum). Must possess a valid ... of operating engineer technical college apprenticeship program. Licensure/ Registration ...

Must possess a First Class "B" Minnesota State Engineers license (minimum). Must possess a valid ... of operating engineer technical college apprenticeship program. Licensure/ Registration ...

The "Engineer - 1st Class" is a highly skilled, licensed professional responsible for the operation ... Operating and maintaining critical mechanical systems (working knowledge). * Comprehensive ...

Engineer -1st Class

Washington, DC · On-site

$57.40 - $63/hr

The "Engineer - 1st Class" is a highly skilled, licensed professional responsible for the operation ... Operating and maintaining critical mechanical systems (working knowledge). * Comprehensive ...

The "Engineer - 1st Class" is a highly skilled, licensed professional responsible for the operation ... Operating and maintaining critical mechanical systems (working knowledge). * Comprehensive ...

Operating Engineer

Arlington, VA

$80K - $108K/yr

The Operating Engineer will serve as a senior-level licensed professional responsible for the ... Higher-class engineering license (2nd Class or 1st Class Boiler Engineer license) * EPA Universal ...

Operating Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

The Operating Engineer will serve as a senior-level licensed professional responsible for the ... Higher-class engineering license (2nd Class or 1st Class Boiler Engineer license) * EPA Universal ...

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1st Class Operating Engineer information

See salary details

$33K

$89.2K

$142K

How much do 1st class operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for 1st class operating engineer in the United States is $89,183.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $109,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 1st class operating engineer?

1st Class Operating Engineers are highly skilled professionals responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of complex building systems, including heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), and mechanical equipment. They work in large facilities such as commercial buildings, hospitals, or industrial plants to ensure all systems run safely and efficiently. This role typically requires advanced certification and several years of experience in building operations. 1st Class Operating Engineers may also supervise junior staff and ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

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

To thrive as a 1st Class Operating Engineer, you need extensive knowledge of boiler systems, HVAC, and mechanical operations, typically proven by a 1st Class Operating Engineer certification or license. Familiarity with building automation systems, maintenance management software, and regulatory compliance tools is essential. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help engineers respond to emergencies and coordinate with facility teams. These abilities ensure safe, efficient operation of complex building systems and minimize costly downtime.

What are some common challenges faced by a 1st class operating engineer, and how can they be managed effectively?

One of the key challenges for a 1st Class Operating Engineer is managing multiple systems simultaneously, such as HVAC, boilers, and electrical systems, especially during peak demand or emergency situations. Staying organized and communicating clearly with team members and other departments is crucial for responding quickly to issues. Proactively performing regular inspections and preventive maintenance helps reduce unexpected breakdowns, while ongoing training ensures you stay updated on evolving technologies and safety protocols. Building strong relationships with colleagues and maintaining accurate records can also improve workflow and minimize downtime.

What is the difference between 1St Class Operating Engineer vs 2nd Class Operating Engineer?

Aspect1St Class Operating Engineer2nd Class Operating Engineer
CredentialsRequires higher-level licenses and certificationsRequires intermediate licenses and certifications
Work EnvironmentOperates complex equipment, often in large facilities or plantsHandles routine equipment operation and maintenance
Employer UsageUsed in large industrial, power, or municipal facilitiesCommon in smaller facilities or as entry-level roles

The main difference between a 1St Class Operating Engineer and a 2nd Class Operating Engineer lies in their certification requirements, scope of responsibilities, and work environment. 1St Class engineers typically operate more complex systems and require higher credentials, while 2nd Class engineers handle more routine tasks with intermediate certifications. Both roles are essential in maintaining efficient facility operations, but the 1St Class position generally involves more advanced technical skills and responsibilities.

What cities are hiring for 1St Class Operating Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most 1St Class Operating Engineer job openings:

What states have the most 1St Class Operating Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for 1St Class Operating Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to 1St Class Operating Engineer jobs?

For 1St Class Operating Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various 1St Class Operating Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,183 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

Operating Engineer

Saint Paul, MN • On-site

Regions Hospital
Health Care and Social Assistance • 1 - 5K employees

$48.56/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago


Regions Hospital rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

261st of 1,066 rated hospitals


Job description

If you're a self-starter who enjoys working independently and is looking for a great opportunity Regions Hospital is looking for an Operating Engineer to join our team.

The ideal candidate for this opportunity will be responsible for 85% building maintenance and 15% operating procedures for high pressure boilers, chillers and related equipment. It will be essential to have the ability to repair / rebuild electrical, mechanical, plumbing, air compressors, electronic / pneumatic controls, hydronic heating pumps, high / low pressure steam, pneumatic tube system and HVAC systems across entire hospital campus as well as operating and maintaining boilers, chillers, air conditioning, electrical, compressed air and mechanical equipment. You will be responsible for trouble calls in the hospital and all other related duties as assigned.

Work schedule: FTE: 1.0 (40 hrs. weekly), Night Shift

Required Qualifications:

Operating Engineer:

Minimum Qualifications: Experience: 3 years of experience that qualifies for 1st class B engineer's licensure OR successful completion of operating engineer technical college apprenticeship program.

 Licensure/ Registration/ Certification:   

 Must possess a First Class "B" Minnesota State Engineers license (minimum).

Must possess a valid Minnesota State Driver's license.

 Compensation:  1st class Engineer license:  $48.56 hr. plus 2nd shift differential $2.50 hr. with additional weekend differential of $1.00 hr.

Provisional:

Minimum Qualifications: Experience:1 years of experience that qualifies for a 2nd class B engineer's licensure OR successful completion of operating engineer technical college apprenticeship program.

 Licensure/ Registration/ Certification:   

 Must possess a Second Class "B" Minnesota State Engineers license (minimum). Will need to have 1st class license within three years to maintain employment.

Must possess a valid Minnesota State Driver's license.

Compensation:

2nd class A or B engineer license: $44.04 hr. plus 2nd shift differential $2.50 hr. with additional weekend differential of $1.00 hr. Will revive full scale when receiving 1st class engineer license.

Benefits: Regions Hospital offers a competitive benefits package (.5 FTE or greater) that includes medical insurance, dental insurance, 401K with match, disability insurance, fertility coverage and tuition reimbursement. We offer an on-site employee fitness center, as well as on-site employee clinic to make it more convenient for our staff to get the care they need. We also have a Center for Employee Resilience that provides support and evidence-based practices to bring relief and build resiliency. Regions Hospital is a qualified non-profit employer under the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Regions is also proud to be a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Company.


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