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2Nd Class Operating Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kaleida Health

Second Class Engineer

Buffalo, NY · On-site

Second Class Engineer Department : BGMC Plant Services Location: Buffalo General Medical Center ... U09 - IUOE BGH Operating Engineers Requisition ID# : 20700 Grade : M05 Pay Frequency : Bi-Weekly ...

LCMC Health

Engineer 2nd Class

Hibbing, MN

The Engineer 2nd Class is responsible for operating and maintaining various components of the heating ventilation, air conditioning systems, laundry and dietary equipment. Repairs, installs, replaces ...

LCMC Health

Engineer 2nd Class

New Orleans, LA · On-site

The Engineer 2nd Class is responsible for operating and maintaining various components of the heating ventilation, air conditioning systems, laundry and dietary equipment. Repairs, installs, replaces ...

LCMC Health

Engineer 2nd Class

Hibbing, MN · On-site

The Engineer 2nd Class is responsible for operating and maintaining various components of the heating ventilation, air conditioning systems, laundry and dietary equipment. Repairs, installs, replaces ...

LCMC Health

Engineer 2nd Class

New Orleans, LA · On-site

The Engineer 2nd Class is responsible for operating and maintaining various components of the heating ventilation, air conditioning systems, laundry and dietary equipment. Repairs, installs, replaces ...

The Windsor Court

2nd Class Engineer

New Orleans, LA · On-site

The Windsor Court is seeking a skilled 2nd-class Engineer to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for responding to all repair calls from guests and other departments with priority ...

Avion Hospitality

2nd Class Engineer

New Orleans, LA · On-site

The Windsor Court is seeking a skilled 2nd-class Engineer to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for responding to all repair calls from guests and other departments with priority ...

kgs

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 ...

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2Nd Class Operating Engineer information

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$79.5K

$137.5K

$186.5K

How much do 2nd class operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for 2nd class operating engineer in the United States is $137,500.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,000.00 and $185,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between 2Nd Class Operating Engineer vs 3Rd Class Operating Engineer?

Aspect2Nd Class Operating Engineer3Rd Class Operating Engineer
CredentialsRequires a 2nd Class license, often with additional experienceRequires a 3rd Class license, usually with less experience
Work EnvironmentOperates and maintains HVAC, boilers, and mechanical systems in buildingsPerforms similar tasks but under supervision or with limited responsibilities
Employer & IndustryCommonly employed in commercial, industrial, and institutional facilitiesTypically found in similar settings, often as entry-level or apprentice roles

The main difference between a 2Nd Class Operating Engineer and a 3Rd Class Operating Engineer lies in licensing requirements and level of responsibility. A 2Nd Class license allows for more independent operation and maintenance of complex systems, while a 3Rd Class license is often an entry-level certification with limited duties. Both roles are essential in maintaining building systems, but the 2Nd Class Operating Engineer has a broader scope of work and greater autonomy.

What are some typical challenges faced by a 2nd Class Operating Engineer, and how can they be addressed?

2nd Class Operating Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining complex mechanical systems under time constraints, managing unexpected equipment failures, and ensuring compliance with strict safety regulations. These challenges can be addressed by staying current with preventive maintenance schedules, participating in ongoing technical training, and fostering clear communication with other engineering staff and building managers. Being proactive and detail-oriented helps minimize downtime and ensures a safe, efficient work environment.

What are 2nd Class Operating Engineers?

A 2nd Class Operating Engineer is a professional responsible for operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting boilers, refrigeration, and other mechanical systems in buildings or industrial settings. They hold a 2nd Class certification, which allows them to manage equipment of a certain size and complexity, often under regulatory requirements. Their duties may include monitoring system performance, performing routine maintenance, keeping records, and ensuring safety procedures are followed. These engineers commonly work in facilities such as hospitals, schools, factories, or power plants. Advancement to higher classes may require additional training and experience.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Among engineering roles, petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, and engineering managers often have salaries exceeding $200,000 annually, especially with experience, advanced certifications, or in senior positions. These roles typically require specialized skills, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities, and may involve working in high-demand industries or locations with higher cost of living.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most 2nd Class Operating Engineers earn significantly less, some highly experienced or specialized engineers working in large facilities, industrial plants, or with overtime and management responsibilities can reach or exceed $500,000 annually. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, certifications, and working in high-demand environments with premium compensation packages.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 2nd Class Operating Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 2nd Class Operating Engineer, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, boiler operation, and relevant safety regulations, typically supported by a 2nd Class Operating Engineer certification. Familiarity with building automation systems, HVAC controls, and maintenance management software is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help engineers respond to emergencies and collaborate with maintenance teams. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of critical building systems.

How much does a second class engineer make?

A second class operating engineer typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry. They often require certification and operate machinery such as boilers, turbines, or HVAC systems in industrial or commercial settings.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with advanced skills, certifications, and leadership roles. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and work in high-demand industries or senior management levels.
More about 2Nd Class Operating Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for 2Nd Class Operating Engineer jobs? Cities with the most 2Nd Class Operating Engineer job openings:
What states have the most 2Nd Class Operating Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for 2Nd Class Operating Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching 2Nd Class Operating Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for 2Nd Class Operating Engineer jobs are:
2Nd Class Operating Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various 2Nd Class Operating Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 34% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $137,500 per year, or $66.1 per hour.
Second Class Engineer

Second Class Engineer

Kaleida Health

Buffalo, NY • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Kaleida Health rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 92 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

329th of 886 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Second Class Engineer
Department: BGMC Plant Services
Location: Buffalo General Medical Center
Location of Job: US:NY:Buffalo
Work Type: Full-Time
Scheduled Work Hours: 6am-2pm
Shift 1
Job Description
Performs skilled services for repair, replacement, modification and installation of physical plant refrigeration, HVAC and other equipment. Operates and maintains physical plant steam generating, power generating, chilled water, heating and electrical power distribution equipment providing service to the facility. Must possess the ability to troubleshoot, diagnose and select a course of action regarding equipment failures and repair.
Education And Credentials
High school graduate or equivalent required.
Experience
3 years of experience as an engineer required. Stationary Engineer Class 2 upon hire required. Stationary Engineers license must be current 2nd class engineers license from the city of Buffalo. Prefer a Class 1 Stationary Engineer License.
Working Conditions
Essential:
* Weight Requirement - Medium (up to 50 lbs)
Job Details
Standard Hours Bi-Weekly: 75.00
FTE: 1.000000
Weekend/Holiday Requirement: Yes
On Call Required: No
With Rotation:
Work Arrangement: Onsite
Union Code: U09 - IUOE BGH Operating Engineers
Requisition ID#: 20700
Grade: M05
Pay Frequency: Bi-Weekly
Salary Range: $29.92 -$35.74
*Wage will be determined based on factors such as candidate's experience, qualifications, internal equity, and any applicable collective bargaining agreement.
Kaleida Health's mission is to advance the health of our community, and we believe our diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategic work is mission- critical for the good of our workforce and the community who need and depend on our care and services. We understand that racism and health inequities stand firmly in the way of advancing the health of our community, and Kaleida Health envisions DEI as the pursuit of equity and restorative justice for every person. We will exemplify courage and accountability through both the professing and practice of our core values for our friends, colleagues, and community. Kaleida Health is committed to creating a culture of equity and inclusion where diversity is valued and celebrated!

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