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2Nd Class Operating Engineer Jobs in Ontario (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Shift Engineer - 2nd Class

Toronto, ON · On-site

CA$45.40 - CA$46.90/hr

What you'll do The 2nd Class Assistant Shift Engineer is responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of this 1st Class Steam Plant. They will work closely with and be able to perform ...

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2Nd Class Operating Engineer information

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.
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Infographic showing various 2Nd Class Operating Engineer job openings in Ontario as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Assistant Chief Operation Engineer

Are you a First Class Operating Engineer with strong leadership experience looking to take the next step in your career? Do you enjoy leading teams, driving performance, and ensuring the safe and reliable operation of complex utility systems?


Can you see yourself playing a key role in overseeing Powerhouse operations, supporting critical infrastructure across a large site, and stepping in as Chief Operating Engineer when needed?


If you answered yes, then this may be the job for you!


What will you be doing!

  • Providing leadership, direction, and oversight to Operating Engineers within Utilities Operations.
  • Supporting the Chief Operating Engineer (COE) in ensuring safe, reliable, and compliant operation of the Powerhouse and associated systems.
  • Overseeing operations supporting site utilities, including steam, compressed air, water systems, and wastewater treatment.
  • Ensuring compliance with TSSA regulations (Ontario Regulation 219/01) and other governing standards.
  • Supervising performance, supporting coaching, development, and workforce planning for operating staff.
  • Acting as Chief Operating Engineer in their absence, ensuring regulatory compliance and operational continuity.
  • Monitoring operational performance, reviewing system data and logs, and addressing trends or abnormalities.
  • Managing and coordinating maintenance activities, work permits, and scheduling.
  • Supporting budget planning, resource allocation, and small maintenance projects.
  • Driving a strong safety culture, ensuring adherence to all safety, environmental, and regulatory programs.
  • Collaborating with internal teams, contractors, vendors, and regulators to support operations.
  • Other duties as assigned by your manager.

What we are looking for:

  • Education
    • Must hold a valid First Class Operating Engineer Certificate (Province of Ontario).
  • Experience
    • Minimum 10 years' experience operating high-pressure steam plants.
    • Significant supervisory and leadership experience.
    • Trade background or hands-on mechanical experience considered an asset.
  • Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
    • Strong leadership skills with the ability to coach, mentor, and drive accountability.
    • In-depth knowledge of relevant regulations and standards, including TSSA requirements, Ontario Regulation 219/01, Boiler & Pressure Vessel codes, CSA standards, Canadian Labour Code, and environmental/emission regulations.
    • Strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting capability.
    • Ability to read and interpret drawings, blueprints, and process flow diagrams.
    • Excellent communication, organizational, and time management skills.
    • Strong decision-making and problem-solving ability in complex, high-pressure environments.
    • Experience with computerized systems (CMMS, process control systems, Microsoft Office).
    • High level of self-direction with the ability to lead and inspire teams.
  • Security Clearance Eligibility Required

    • Level 2 Secret requires a minimum of 7 years of verifiable history in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and/or the United Kingdom. CNL implements security screening in accordance with the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat's "Standard on Security Screening" and the "Policy on Government Security."

Working Conditions:

  • Working schedule: Standard 40 hour work week, days-based schedule with requirement to support a 24/7 operation, including occasional off-hours support as needed.

Why CNL?

Does the idea of working with a dynamic team across Canada to advance nuclear science and technology for a clean and secure world excite you? At CNL, we're reinventing ourselves to be industry leaders-pioneering solutions to the problems that matter most.

From building the next generation of clean nuclear and hydrogen energy technologies, to developing targeted cancer treatments, to continuing our global leadership in environmental remediation-we are driven by impact, innovation, and purpose.

What We Offer: A Total Rewards Package

We believe in taking care of our people. Here's what you can expect as part of our team:

  • Paid time off: vacation, sick, personal, and floater days
  • Benefits effective Day One - no waiting period
  • Tuition support to help you keep learning and growing
  • A defined-benefit pension plan or a defined-contribution pension plan, depending on your employee group, to support your longterm financial security

Do Our Priorities Resonate with You?

  • Delivering clean energy for today and tomorrow
  • Restoring and protecting the environment
  • Contributing to the health of Canadians

If so, you'll feel right at home at CNL!


Location: Onsite

Located in the heart of the Ottawa Valley, our Chalk River site offers a beautiful natural setting with forests, lakes, and wildlife, right at your doorstep. Surrounded by welcoming communities such as Deep River, Petawawa, and Pembroke, you'll have access to unparalleled outdoor adventures and a fantastic work-life balance.

Please note: This is a fully on-site position based at our Chalk River Laboratory in Ontario.

Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

At CNL, we are committed to fostering an environment that promotes equity, diversity, and inclusion. We celebrate and welcome employees, stakeholders, and partners of all backgrounds and identities. Click here to read all about it!

We are proud to uphold a workplace culture grounded in our Core Values:

  • Respect
  • Teamwork
  • Accountability
  • Safety
  • Integrity
  • Excellence

These values drive our employment practices and ensure meaningful career development opportunities and accommodations for all employees.

CNL is an equal opportunity employer. If you require accommodation during any phase of the hiring process, please let us know via jobs@cnl.ca. All requests will be handled with confidentiality.

CNL operates on sites located on the traditional lands, waterways and ceded and unceded territories of Indigenous peoples. CNL recognizes and affirms all First Nations, Metis communities and Inuit in this land we now know as Canada. We acknowledge, respect and seek to better understand Indigenous history, rights and title on the lands where we work and develop projects. We honour and respect the importance of the relationship between Indigenous peoples and their lands, waters and territories.

Employment Type: Full-Time