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2Nd Class Operating Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Pittsburgh

Operating Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$67K - $91K/yr

This position requires a minimum class 4 City of Pittsburgh Power Engineers License or equivalent ... operating engineer: a minimum of three years' experience monitoring and operating building ...

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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 Jun 26, 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 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.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $137,500 per year, or $66.1 per hour.
Operating Engineer

Operating Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

$68K - $93K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.9

Company rating: 9.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 58 rated research

Job description

Description
Do you have solid understanding of steam and hot water boilers of 300 HP or greater? Do you have experience monitoring and commanding a variety of mechanical equipment using Johnson Controls BAS? This position supports 24/7/365 operations including nights, weekends, and holidays. Do you possess a 1st or 2nd Grade MD Stationary Engineers license?
Are you comfortable using hand tools, test equipment and CMMS with the ability to detail your work daily using Microsoft Word?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.
We are seeking an Operating Engineer to help us operate, supervise and maintain all physical plant equipment on our campus. We are an experienced team of operating engineers dedicated to the support and highly efficient performance of utility systems for approximately 50 buildings containing office and research laboratory spaces.
As an Operating Engineer...
  • Your primary responsibility will be to operate and monitor all physical plant equipment; including to regularly check mechanical and machine rooms to ensure full service to all facilities and special areas.
  • You will start-up and changeover equipment; complete minor preventive maintenance work and machinery history logs; and respond to facility service outages by making immediate repairs or initiating recall of appropriate personnel.
  • You will monitor and control equipment operations through the building automation system and respond to alarms that may require reset or to perform emergency repairs to restore normal facility operations.
  • You will secure and restore utility services as required during emergency situations or unscheduled outages.
  • You may use APL vehicles in the course of daily operations in this role.
  • Shift schedule: 12 AM - 8 AM (2 Days), 12 AM - 12 PM (2 Days)

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Possess a Maryland Second Grade Stationary Engineer's license.
  • Have experience using hand tools, power tools and test equipment.
  • Have solid understanding of applicable Plumbing and Mechanical operations with the ability to read blueprints, sketches, O&M Manuals and diagrams.
  • Are capable of working independently during both routine and emergency situations.
  • Are an effective communicator with basic computer literacy.
  • Are willing and able to work nights, weekends, and holidays in a watch engineer role; wear personal protective equipment; and operate vehicles and industrial equipment.
  • Requires valid state-of-residence driver's license in good standing.
  • Are willing to work outside during inclement weather and walk to complete rounds throughout our campus.
  • Are able to work overtime as the need arises and assist other trades as advised.
  • Hold US Citizenship or permanent resident status, as required to access APL's facilities and networks, subject to applicable laws.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have familiarity with Johnson Controls METASYS building automation systems.
  • Have experience in emergency response, hazardous materials handling, and applicable OSHA/EPA regulations, or CFC Certification.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$27.95 Hourly
Maximum Rate
$51.25 Hourly

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