Building Engineer Apprentice Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

The Walker Art Center empowers people to experience the transformative possibilities of the art and ideas of our time and to imagine the world in new ways. In our over 125-year history, we have become one of the most celebrated art museums in the country and we are known for our innovative presentations and acclaimed collections of contemporary art across the spectrum of the visual, performing, and media arts.

The Building Engineer is the team’s day-to-day technical specialist for operating, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing the Walker’s building systems. The Building Engineer works closely with the Manager and assists with general facilities needs.

WHAT YOU GET TO DO 

• Operate, inspect, monitor, and optimize HVAC, BAS/EMS, boilers, chillers, pumps, fans, compressors, generators, water treatment, plumbing, lighting, electrical components, and related building equipment within qualifications and authority.
• Review alarms, trends, logs, and physical conditions; respond promptly to abnormal conditions and communicate risks, temporary measures, service impacts, and follow-up needs to the Manager.
• Maintain appropriate temperature, humidity, air quality, and system performance in coordination with museum requirements and authorized setpoints.

Preventive Maintenance and Repair

• Lead assigned preventive and corrective maintenance; troubleshoot failures, perform safe repairs and adjustments, and return equipment to documented operating condition.
• Create and update job plans, inspection routes, equipment histories, readings, parts needs, and closeout notes in the work-order system.
• Identify deterioration and reliability risks early; recommend repair, replacement, controls, efficiency, or capital solutions with clear urgency and operational impact.

Technical Vendor and Project Support

• Develop or review technical scopes and estimates; coordinate access, shutdowns, lockout/tagout, permits, testing, and site conditions for engineering vendors as assigned.
• Observe contractor work, verify technical completion and system operation, document deficiencies, and obtain manuals, test reports, warranties, and parts information before closeout.

Safety, Coverage, and Team Service

• Follow safety, chemical handling, environmental, emergency, and access-control procedures; maintain clean, secure mechanical rooms and shops.
• Respond to work orders and urgent conditions; assist with general maintenance and facilities work when technical priorities permit.
• Participate in cross-training, seasonal preparation, emergency drills, after-hours coverage, and continuous improvement.

WHAT WE NEED IN YOU 

Minimum Requirements

• Demonstrated experience maintaining and troubleshooting mechanical, electrical, plumbing, controls, and building automation systems in a commercial or institutional facility.
• Working knowledge of boilers, chillers, HVAC, pumps, fans, water treatment, electrical components, plumbing, and safe use of tools and test equipment.
• Ability to read plans, schematics, manuals, control sequences, and work orders; document readings, work performed, parts, and follow-up needs.
• Required Minnesota boiler operator license level and valid driver’s license as established by Walker and applicable law.
• Ability to prioritize independently, communicate clearly, work collaboratively, and provide calm customer service under pressure.

Preferred Skills

• Technical/vocational education or apprenticeship in building engineering, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, controls, stationary engineering, or a related field.
• Experience with BAS trending, energy optimization, computerized maintenance management systems, museum environmental requirements, and vendor oversight.
• Additional relevant trade licenses or certifications.

Schedule and Working Conditions

• Schedule may include staggered hours and periodic evenings or weekends based on coverage, shutdowns, and program needs.
• Participates in an established on-call rotation; final response and pay practices will be documented by Walker.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS   

• Must be able to stand for long periods of time.
• Frequent walking, standing, climbing, bending, kneeling, reaching, and work in mechanical rooms.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds, using assistance as appropriate.
• Ability to work from ladders and lifts and in confined spaces when trained and authorized.
• Exposure to noise, dust, chemicals, odors, weather, and temperature variation; required use of personal protective equipment.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS This position is considered full-time (35 hours per week), non-exempt. As a non-exempt position, it is eligible for overtime pay. The compensation for this role is $35.50 hourly.

BENEFITS: Medical, dental, and vision insurance; 403(b) retirement plan with employer contribution; paid vacation, sick time, and holidays.

This position is not eligible for relocation assistance. 

All applicants must be eligible to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship.   

Walker’s DEI commitment The Walker is committed to being an employer with a staff who, at all job levels, reflects the rich diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We are dedicated to ensuring inclusion and equity in all our employment practices. We deeply value and welcome all the unique lived experiences in our applicants and encourage anyone meeting the minimum requirements to apply.

Recruitment Timeline All positions are open until filled. 

E-Verify Participation Notice Walker Art Center participates in E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

For more information, please review the following notices:

• E-Verify Participation Poster (English/Spanish)
• Right to Work Poster (English/Spanish)